Genesis 25:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The remains of those who have passed away, particularly the righteous who were instruments and vessels of the Holy Spirit in their good deeds (cf. 2 Cor. 4:7), ought not to be regarded with disdain. Just as a father’s clothing or a cherished ring holds sentimental value for his children, so too do their bodies hold a far more profound significance, being far closer to them than mere garments. This reverence is rooted not in superficial embellishments or mere sentimentalities, but in the inherent dignity of humanity. It is this dignity that inspires society to care for the remains of the ancient righteous, organizing funerals and looking after their graves. Often, when they were still living, these individuals would entrust their children with the responsibility of overseeing their burial and funeral rites (cf. Gen. 23:1-20, Gen. 47:30).

Isaac and Ishmael, the sons of Abraham, laid their father to rest. This act of honoring him is credited to just the two, likely not only because of their close location at the time of Abraham's passing but also due to their position as his eldest sons.