Old Testament
Genesis 23:13
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
He spoke to Ephron in the hearing of all the people of the land, saying, "Please, if you are willing, listen to me. Let me pay you for the field. Accept my payment, and I will lay my dead to rest there."
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And he spake unto Ephron in the audience of the people of the land, saying, But if thou wilt give it, I pray thee, hear me: I will give thee money for the field; take it of me, and I will bury my dead there.
What Genesis 23:13 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, Abraham is negotiating with Ephron to buy a piece of land for a burial site. He speaks openly in front of the local people, showing his respect for the community and the importance of the transaction. Abraham emphasizes his willingness to pay for the field, indicating that he values the land and wants to honor his deceased loved ones properly. This moment highlights the significance of land ownership and the customs surrounding burial practices in Abraham's culture. By asking Ephron to accept his payment, Abraham demonstrates integrity and a desire to do things the right way. This interaction also reflects the importance of community relationships and the need for transparency in dealings. Abraham's respectful approach sets a standard for how we should conduct ourselves in negotiations, valuing both the people involved and the agreements made. His commitment to honoring his family through a proper burial site resonates with anyone who has experienced loss and understands the need for closure.
How to apply Genesis 23:13 to your life
When faced with important decisions, approach them with respect and integrity, just as Abraham did. Be open and transparent in your dealings with others. This builds trust and strengthens relationships, whether in personal or professional contexts. Remember the significance of honoring loved ones in your life decisions, too.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Abraham's story: Sarah Is Buried (Genesis 23:1–20)
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Abraham
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 23:13 mean?
Genesis 23:13 describes Abraham negotiating with Ephron for a burial site. It shows Abraham's respect for the community and his commitment to properly honor his deceased loved ones by purchasing the land.
What is the significance of Abraham's negotiation in Genesis 23:13?
Abraham's negotiation highlights the importance of integrity and transparency in transactions. By openly discussing the purchase in front of the community, he sets a standard for respectful dealings.
What does the phrase 'I will give thee money for the field' mean in Genesis 23:13?
This phrase emphasizes Abraham's willingness to pay for the land, reflecting his respect for ownership and the customs surrounding burial practices in his culture.
How does Genesis 23:13 reflect cultural practices of the time?
The verse reflects the cultural practices of land ownership and burial customs in Abraham's time, showing the importance of paying for land and honoring the deceased within the community.
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