Genesis 46:7

Jacob took with him to Egypt his sons and grandsons, and his daughters and granddaughters--all his offspring.

Study Bible

Jacob took with him to Egypt
This phrase marks a significant moment in the narrative of Jacob's life and the history of Israel. Jacob, also known as Israel, is moving his entire family to Egypt due to a severe famine in Canaan. This relocation fulfills God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would sojourn in a foreign land (Genesis 15:13). Egypt, a powerful and prosperous nation at the time, becomes a place of refuge. This move sets the stage for the Israelites' eventual enslavement and the subsequent Exodus, a pivotal event in biblical history.

his sons and grandsons
Jacob's sons are the patriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel. Their names and families are listed in Genesis 46:8-27, emphasizing the continuity of God's covenant with Abraham through Jacob's lineage. The mention of grandsons highlights the growth of Jacob's family, which is crucial for the fulfillment of God's promise to make Abraham's descendants as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5). This generational detail underscores the importance of family and heritage in the biblical narrative.

and his daughters and granddaughters
While the Bible often focuses on male lineage, the inclusion of daughters and granddaughters here indicates the comprehensive nature of Jacob's family migration. This reflects the cultural context where family units, including women and children, were integral to tribal identity and survival. Although fewer women are named, their presence is essential for the continuation of the family line and the fulfillment of God's promises.

all his offspring
This phrase emphasizes the totality of Jacob's family moving to Egypt, signifying a complete transition from Canaan to a new life in a foreign land. It highlights the unity and collective identity of Jacob's family as they embark on this journey. This move is a precursor to the formation of the nation of Israel, as all of Jacob's descendants will eventually become the people who receive the Law at Sinai and enter the Promised Land. The phrase also foreshadows the eventual multiplication of Jacob's descendants in Egypt, fulfilling God's promise of a great nation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the Israelite nation, who is moving his entire family to Egypt in response to Joseph's invitation and God's promise.

2. Sons and Grandsons
The male descendants of Jacob, who are part of the fulfillment of God's promise to make Jacob's descendants a great nation.

3. Daughters and Granddaughters
The female descendants of Jacob, included in the migration to Egypt, highlighting the importance of the entire family unit.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where Jacob's family will find refuge during the famine.

5. Joseph
Jacob's son, who has become a powerful leader in Egypt and is instrumental in bringing his family to safety.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Jacob's move to Egypt demonstrates his trust in God's promises, even when circumstances are uncertain. Believers are encouraged to trust God's plans for their lives.

Family Unity and Legacy
The inclusion of all of Jacob's offspring emphasizes the importance of family unity and the transmission of faith and values to future generations.

God's Sovereignty in Difficult Times
The migration to Egypt during a famine shows God's provision and sovereignty, reminding believers that God is in control even in challenging situations.

Preparation for Future Deliverance
This event sets the stage for the Exodus, illustrating how God prepares His people for future deliverance and fulfillment of His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's decision to move his entire family to Egypt reflect his faith in God's promises, and how can we apply this faith in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the inclusion of both sons and daughters in the migration to Egypt highlight the importance of family unity in fulfilling God's purposes?

3. How does the account of Jacob's family moving to Egypt connect to the larger account of God's redemptive plan for Israel and the world?

4. What can we learn from Jacob's trust in God's sovereignty during a time of famine, and how can this trust be applied to our current challenges?

5. How does the preparation for the future Exodus in this passage encourage us to see God's hand in our own life's journey and future deliverance?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 12:1-3
God's promise to Abraham about making his descendants a great nation, which is being fulfilled as Jacob's family moves to Egypt.

Exodus 1:1-7
The growth of Jacob's family in Egypt, setting the stage for the eventual Exodus.

Hebrews 11:21
Jacob's faith in God's promises, even as he moves his family to a foreign land.

Acts 7:14-15
Stephen's speech recounting the history of Israel, including Jacob's move to Egypt, as part of God's redemptive plan.