Parasha Chayey Sarah: Genesis 23:1-25:18

The name of this parasha means 'lives of Sarah.' Sarah lived 127 years and died in Hebron. Abraham eulogized her, and then purchased a burial site for her from Ephron the Hittite. Through careful diplomacy he buys the Cave of Machpelah, where all the patriarchs and matriarchs except Rachel will eventually be buried. After this, when Abraham is old, he sends his servant out of Canaan to the land of Abraham's relatives, to find a wife for Isaac. The servant, who is deeply connected to God, finds Rebecca, the daughter of Abraham's brother, Nahor, and the sister of Laban. Rebecca is a kind and gracious hostess who welcomes the servant, and gives him as well as his caravan of camels enough water to quench their thirst. This is remarkable, as each camel can drink up to 30 gallons of water in one sitting! Rebecca's family gives her the choice to go with the servant. She goes with him willingly, meets Isaac, and marries him. After this, Abraham marries a woman named Keturah, and has six more sons. Only Isaac inherits from Abraham, and the other sons are given gifts. Abraham dies at age 175 and is gathered to his people. Afterwards, Ishmael dies at age 137, and is gathered to his people.