Literary Devices – Bereshit 25/0

Literary Devices – Bereshit 25

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Relational Epithets This chapter, which tells of Avraham’s death, reflects on the nature of Avraham’s family relationships through the use of relational epithets.

Yitzchak and Yishmael

Both Yitzchak and Yishmael are referred to both by name and as Avraham’s sons (see verses 6, 9, 11 and 12), perhaps emphasizing the attachment that Avraham felt to both of them.  Interestingly, the two are grouped together as “his sons” in verse 9, which describes their burial of Avraham, perhaps indicating that at this final moment they acted together in honor of their father.  

Avraham’s Other Children The children that Avraham had with his concubines are called “the sons of Avraham's concubines” in verse 6, minimizing their connection to Avraham and making it clear that they do not inherit his legacy.

Sarah Sarah is referred to as “Sarah his wife” in verse 10, emphasizing her role as Avraham’s only true wife.

Hagar Hagar is referred to as “הָגָר הַמִּצְרִית שִׁפְחַת שָׂרָה” (verse 12), emphasizing that while Yishmael retained a father-son relationship with Avraham, Hagar was not Avraham’s true wife.