This is part of a video series covering the entire Bible in 4 years, one chapter at a time. Start at the beginning with Genesis 1 (Youtube link: https://youtu.be/wC2qD4RGOdo) and work through the playlist. Or go to https://www.peace.org.au/bible.html for more information.
In this video listen to Genesis 23 read by David Alley, followed by comments and prayer.
Genesis 23 seems like a story that while interesting has little to do with the rest of scripture. It recounts the death of Sarah at great old age of 127. Isaac is 37 years old at the time of her death and she is the only woman in scripture whose age at death is named.
The passage goes on to describe a negotiation between Ephron the Hittite and Abraham for the purchase/sale of the burial plot, which is a field with a cave in it. Both seem keen to do what they think the other wants, which for Abraham is to pay a good price, and for Ephron to give the field away. In the end they concede to each other and Abraham purchase the field for 400 shekels of silver, which was a good deal.
This passage, as well as showing some interesting historical things, also highlights preferential honor in relationships. Clearly these two men had a great deal of respect for each other, and as Christian believers, there is a calling for preferential treatment of each other also.
Jan 24, 2021 | Message by David Alley