Genesis 47:29

When the time drew near for Israel to die, he called his son Joseph and said to him, "If I have found favor in your eyes, put your hand under my thigh and promise to show me kindness and faithfulness. Do not bury me in Egypt,

Study Bible

When the time drew near for Israel to die
This phrase indicates the approaching death of Jacob, also known as Israel. The name "Israel" signifies his role as the patriarch of the twelve tribes. His impending death marks a significant transition in the narrative of the Israelites. The awareness of his mortality prompts him to make arrangements for his burial, reflecting the importance of burial customs in ancient Near Eastern culture.

he called his son Joseph
Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, holds a position of power in Egypt as second only to Pharaoh. Jacob's summoning of Joseph highlights the special relationship between them and Joseph's ability to fulfill his father's wishes due to his authority. This also underscores the theme of family unity and the continuation of God's covenant through Joseph's line.

and said to him, “If I have found favor in your eyes
This phrase is a formal request, showing humility and respect. It reflects the cultural norms of the time, where seeking favor was a way to ensure cooperation and goodwill. The phrase is reminiscent of similar requests made by biblical figures seeking assurance or assistance, such as Ruth with Boaz.

put your hand under my thigh
This gesture was a customary oath-taking practice in the ancient Near East, symbolizing a solemn promise. It is also seen in Genesis 24:2-3 when Abraham makes his servant swear an oath. The act signifies the seriousness of the commitment being made, often related to matters of great importance, such as family lineage and covenant promises.

and promise to show me kindness and faithfulness
The terms "kindness" and "faithfulness" are covenantal language, often associated with God's steadfast love and loyalty. Jacob is asking Joseph to act in accordance with these divine attributes, ensuring that his burial wishes are honored. This reflects the broader biblical theme of covenant loyalty and the expectation of mutual faithfulness among God's people.

Do not bury me in Egypt
Jacob's request not to be buried in Egypt emphasizes his desire to be laid to rest in the Promised Land, Canaan, where his ancestors were buried. This reflects the patriarchal hope in God's promises regarding the land. It also foreshadows the eventual exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, highlighting the temporary nature of their sojourn there and their ultimate return to the land God promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel (Jacob)
The patriarch of the Israelites, originally named Jacob, who is nearing the end of his life and making final arrangements with his son Joseph.

2. Joseph
Jacob's beloved son, who rose to power in Egypt and is entrusted with fulfilling his father's burial wishes.

3. Egypt
The land where Jacob and his family have settled during the famine, but not the land of promise given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Promise and Oath
The cultural practice of placing a hand under the thigh as a solemn oath, signifying a serious commitment.

5. Burial Request
Jacob's desire to be buried in Canaan, the land promised to his descendants, reflecting his faith in God's promises.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan reflects his unwavering faith in God's covenant promises. Believers are encouraged to hold fast to God's promises, even when circumstances seem contrary.

The Importance of Legacy
Jacob's concern for his burial place underscores the importance of leaving a legacy of faith. Christians should consider how their actions and decisions impact future generations.

Honoring Commitments
Joseph's willingness to fulfill his father's request highlights the importance of integrity and faithfulness in keeping promises. Believers are called to be people of their word.

Cultural Practices and Their Significance
Understanding the cultural context of biblical events can deepen our appreciation of the text. The oath-taking practice signifies the gravity of Jacob's request and Joseph's commitment.

Preparation for the Future
Jacob's preparations for his death remind us of the importance of planning for the future, both practically and spiritually. Christians should live with an eternal perspective, preparing for their heavenly home.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan demonstrate his faith in God's promises, and how can we apply this faith in our own lives today?

2. In what ways does Joseph's response to his father's request illustrate the importance of honoring commitments, and how can we practice this in our relationships?

3. How does the cultural practice of oath-taking in Genesis 47:29 enhance our understanding of the seriousness of Jacob's request?

4. What legacy of faith are you building for future generations, and how can you ensure it aligns with God's promises?

5. How can we prepare for our future, both practically and spiritually, in a way that reflects our trust in God's eternal promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:2-3
Similar oath-taking practice when Abraham's servant swears to find a wife for Isaac, highlighting the seriousness of such promises.

Hebrews 11:21
Jacob's faith is commended, showing his trust in God's promises even at the end of his life.

Genesis 50:5-13
The fulfillment of Jacob's request by Joseph, demonstrating Joseph's faithfulness and the importance of honoring one's word.