Genesis 50:14

After Joseph had buried his father, he returned to Egypt with his brothers and all who had gone with him to bury his father.

Study Bible

After Joseph had buried his father
This phrase marks the conclusion of a significant event in Joseph's life—the burial of his father, Jacob. Jacob's death and burial are pivotal moments, as Jacob was a patriarch whose life and actions were foundational to the history of Israel. The burial took place in the cave of Machpelah, a site purchased by Abraham (Genesis 23:19-20), which underscores the importance of the Promised Land. This act of burial signifies the fulfillment of Jacob's request to be laid to rest with his ancestors, highlighting the continuity of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

he returned to Egypt
Joseph's return to Egypt signifies his continued role and responsibilities as a leader in a foreign land. Egypt, at this time, was a place of refuge and provision for Jacob's family during the famine, yet it also foreshadows the eventual enslavement of the Israelites. Joseph's return indicates his commitment to his duties in Egypt, where he had risen to power under Pharaoh. This return also sets the stage for the eventual Exodus, as foretold to Abraham in Genesis 15:13-14.

with his brothers
Joseph's brothers accompany him back to Egypt, reflecting the unity and reconciliation that had been achieved within the family. This unity is significant given their earlier betrayal of Joseph (Genesis 37:18-28). The brothers' presence also emphasizes the collective responsibility and shared heritage of the sons of Israel, who would become the twelve tribes. Their return to Egypt is a reminder of the temporary nature of their stay in the land of Canaan, as they await the fulfillment of God's promises.

and all who had gone with him to bury his father
This phrase includes the entourage that accompanied Joseph, which likely consisted of Egyptian officials and servants, as well as members of Jacob's household. The presence of Egyptians highlights Joseph's high status and the respect he commanded in Egypt. It also illustrates the cultural and political connections between Egypt and the family of Israel at this time. The large group signifies the importance of the burial and the honor given to Jacob, reflecting the fulfillment of God's promise to make Jacob's descendants a great nation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, who rose to power in Egypt. He is a central figure in the account, demonstrating forgiveness and leadership.

2. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch whose death and burial are the focus of this passage. His burial in Canaan fulfills his request to be laid to rest with his ancestors.

3. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who accompany Joseph to bury their father. Their relationship with Joseph is a key theme in the account.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph and his family reside during the famine. It represents both a place of refuge and a place of future bondage for the Israelites.

5. Canaan
The Promised Land where Jacob is buried, symbolizing God's covenant and promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

Honoring Family and Heritage
Joseph's actions in burying his father in Canaan highlight the importance of honoring family wishes and respecting one's heritage. This teaches us to value our family ties and cultural roots.

Faithfulness to Promises
Joseph's fulfillment of his father's burial request underscores the importance of keeping promises. As Christians, we are called to be people of our word, reflecting God's faithfulness.

The Journey of Faith
The return to Egypt after the burial signifies the ongoing journey of faith. Like Joseph and his family, we are often called to live in places that are not our ultimate home, trusting in God's future promises.

Leadership and Responsibility
Joseph's leadership in organizing the burial and returning to Egypt with his family shows the balance of personal responsibility and leadership. We are encouraged to lead with integrity and care for those entrusted to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's fulfillment of Jacob's burial request reflect the importance of honoring family commitments in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the burial of Jacob in Canaan serve as a reminder of God's promises to His people? How can we apply this to our understanding of God's faithfulness today?

3. How does Joseph's leadership in this passage inspire us to take responsibility in our own families and communities?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's return to Egypt about living faithfully in places that are not our ultimate home?

5. How does the theme of faithfulness in Genesis 50:14 connect to other biblical accounts, such as the Exodus or the life of Jesus? How can these connections deepen our understanding of God's character?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 47:29-31
Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan, which Joseph honors, showing the importance of fulfilling promises and respecting one's heritage.

Exodus 13:19
Joseph's bones are later carried out of Egypt, connecting to the theme of God's faithfulness in bringing His people to the Promised Land.

Hebrews 11:22
Joseph's faith is highlighted, as he speaks of the Exodus and gives instructions about his bones, demonstrating his trust in God's promises.