c. The death of Abraham (25:1-18)

With the death of Abraham, the promise passes to Isaac. Abraham dies a friend of God, having been the recipient of God’s goodness and blessing throughout a long, full, and fruitful life (vv.7-8). He is buried with Sarah, testifying, as we have observed before, to the fidelity of the God of the covenant. He dies in the confidence that all has been done to ensure the transmission of the promise.

Both Isaac and Ishmael are present for the burial ceremony (cf. 35:29). While the special election of Isaac is acknowledged, it is clear that Abraham cared for and loved each of his sons (including those mentioned in v.2; cf. v.6). Significantly, the narrative ends with a rehearsal of Ishmael’s descendants (vv.12-18). Though not the benefactor of the promise itself, Ishmael’s future is also blessed by God. However, for the continuance of the special promise of salvation history, we must look elsewhere. Isaac and his family have become the repository of the promise, and it is to their continuing story that we now must turn.