Genesis 23:12

12 Abraham bowed respectfully before the assembled council

Genesis 23:12 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 23:12

And Abraham bowed down himself before the people of the
land.
] Showing hereby great respect, and giving much honour both to them and Ephron; and signifying that he had something to say, and desired audience of them, and humbly submitted to them what he should say.

Genesis 23:12 In-Context

10 Ephron was part of the local Hittite community. Then Ephron the Hittite spoke up, answering Abraham with all the Hittites who were part of the town council listening:

11 "Oh no, my master! I couldn't do that. The field is yours - a gift. I'll give it and the cave to you. With my people as witnesses, I give it to you. Bury your deceased wife."

12 Abraham bowed respectfully before the assembled council

13 and answered Ephron: "Please allow me - I want to pay the price of the land; take my money so that I can go ahead and bury my wife."

14 Then Ephron answered Abraham