1)

Why did Avraham ask the people to talk to Efron, and not talk to him personally?

1.

Ramban and Seforno: Because Efron was a wealthy dignitary, and it is not correct for a person of such status to sell part of his inheritance. 1

2.

Ohr ha'Chayim (to 23:9): Avraham was concerned that they may contest the sale in the future, saying that a neighbor had prior rights to buy it, or a creditor had a lien on it. He involved the entire city in the sale, so that no-one could protest later.

3.

Malbim: (If I cannot acquire a family burial site, it is not proper burial.) If you want [that I should] bury my dead properly, you will approach Efron, to decide the reason for the custom that only residents may have sites. 2


1

Ramban and Seforno: As Navos informed Achav, (Melachim I 21:3).

2

Malbim: (a) If it was enacted to give precedence to residents to buy land, it is only for sales; but one may give a gift to whoever he wants. (b) If it is to honor the esteemed residents over visitors, it applies even to a gift.

2)

What are the connotations of "Im Yesh Es Nafshechem"?

1.

Rashi (to Iyov 6:11): It means 'your desire' 1 or 'with your knowledge' 2 - It is an expression of desire and satisfaction from which the soul benefits.

2.

Ohr ha'Chayim: (There are two ways to explain why you called me "Nesi E-lokim;" refer to 23:6:1:6; and refer to 23:6:1:7.) If you [esteem me, and] want [that I bury my dead, you will approach Efron].

3.

Malbim: (If I cannot acquire a family burial site, it is not proper burial.) If you want [that I should] bury my dead properly, you will approach Efron, to decide the reason for the custom that only residents may have sites. 3


1

Rashi: As in Mishlei 13:2.

2

See Avodah Zarah 27a.

3

Malbim: (a) If it was enacted to give precedence to residents to buy land, it is only for sales; but one may give a gift to whoever he wants. (b) If it is to honor the esteemed residents over visitors, it applies even to a gift.

3)

Why did Avraham specifically ask for Efron?

1.

Ramban: Because he knew about the Me'aras ha'Machpelah in the corner of Efron's property. 1 Moreover, it was not used as a burial plot, but was just part of his field.

2.

Malbim: Efron was the judge, and could decide the reason for the custom (refer to 23:8:1.1:3*).


1

Refer to 18:7:1:2*; refer to 23:9:151:1.

4)

Why did Avraham essentially repeat "Likbor Es Mesi mi'Lefanai" (already expressed in 23:4)?

1.

Ha'amek Davar: Aside from my honor, be concerned for my pain. I can remove myself from my Mes only like I say!

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