Genesis 23: Funerals

There is only one funeral in this chapter, but the death and burial of Sarah has valuable notes regarding funerals we experience today. Even though she lived to the age of 127, we are still reminded of how quickly life goes by. The separation that death brings to the survivors has to be addressed every time someone dies. All of the details about death, burial, and the lives of the survivors have to be handled. Sympathy should be offered and accepted. Memorials, including special burial places, are appropriate—Hebron is the place here. Mourning—even weeping—is normal and right. And respect for the one left behind needs to be offered.