Genesis, 23
7. Abraham, however, began to bow low before the local citizens, the Hittites,
7. Abraham, however, began to bow low before the local citizens, the Hittites,
Genesis 23 tells Sarah's death and Abraham's search for a place to bury her. He asks Hete's sons a cave to use it as a grave, and ends up buying the cave of Macpela, where he buries Sara. History shows the importance that Abraham gave to the burial and honor of the dead, as well as respect for local customs.
Psalm 116:15: "Precious is in the sight of the Lord the death of his saints." This verse emphasizes the importance God gives to his servants, even after death, and can be related to the way Abraham took care of Sara's funeral.
Ecclesiastes 7:2: "It is better to go to the house where there is mourning than going to the house where there is feast, because in that is the end of all men, and the living apply it to your heart." This verse emphasizes the importance of remembering the death and value of life. Abraham was clearly aware of this value and sought a suitable place for Sara's funeral.
Philippians 3:20: "But our city is in heaven, from which we also expect the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ." This verse emphasizes the idea that our true house is not on earth but in heaven. However, like Abraham, it is important to respect local traditions and give due honor to the dead while we are on earth.
Hebrews 11:13: "All these died in faith without having received their promises; but seeing them from afar, believing in them, and embracing them, confessed that they were foreigners and pilgrims on earth." This verse points out that the servants of God are as foreigners on this earth, only in passing, and reminds us that we should treat the earth with respect and honor local customs, even as we prepare for our true homeland.
Revelation 14:13: "And I heard a voice from heaven, who said to me, Write: Blessed are the dead who now die in the Lord. Yes, the Spirit says, that they may rest from their works, and their works follow them. . " This verse emphasizes that the dead who die in the Lord will be blessed and will have rest. Abraham wanted to make sure that Sara had a suitable place to rest in peace.
“É doce o viver e o penar para trazer benefícios aos irmãos e para tantas almas que, vertiginosamente, desejam se justificar no mal, a despeito do Bem Supremo.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina