2941. 'And Ephron the Hittite answered Abraham' means the state of their receptivity. This is clear from the meaning of 'answering', when assent is being given, as receptivity, as is also evident from what follows shortly. Ephron is here called 'the Hittite' in order that he may represent the spiritual Church as its head and chief.

Ephron (Genesis 23:8, 17) signifies people who may receive the good and truth of faith.

(Odkazy: Arcana Coelestia 2933, 2969)