Genesis 50:6

Pharaoh replied, "Go up and bury your father, as he made you swear to do."

Study Bible

Pharaoh replied
The mention of "Pharaoh" here is significant, as it highlights the relationship between Joseph and the Egyptian ruler. Pharaoh, the most powerful man in Egypt, shows respect and trust towards Joseph, which is a testament to Joseph's integrity and the favor he found in the eyes of God and man. Historically, this reflects the period of the Hyksos or possibly the early New Kingdom, where Semitic peoples like Joseph could rise to high positions in Egypt.

Go up
The phrase "go up" is often used in the Bible to describe a journey to the land of Canaan, which is geographically higher in elevation compared to Egypt. This phrase also carries a spiritual connotation, as Canaan is the Promised Land, a place of divine promise and fulfillment. The directive to "go up" signifies not just a physical journey, but a return to the land of covenant and heritage.

and bury your father
The act of burial is deeply significant in Hebrew culture, reflecting respect for the deceased and adherence to familial and cultural traditions. Jacob's burial in Canaan, as opposed to Egypt, underscores the importance of the Promised Land and the continuation of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is a reaffirmation of faith in God's promises and a physical act of returning to the land given by God.

as he made you swear to do
This phrase emphasizes the solemnity and binding nature of oaths in ancient times. Joseph's promise to his father Jacob was not merely a personal commitment but a sacred duty. In the Hebrew context, swearing an oath was a serious matter, often invoking God's name as a witness. This reflects the deep sense of honor and responsibility that Joseph felt towards his father and his heritage, highlighting the importance of faithfulness and integrity in fulfilling one's promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who grants Joseph permission to bury his father, Jacob, in Canaan. His response shows respect for Joseph and his family obligations.

2. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who is in a position of power in Egypt. He seeks Pharaoh's permission to fulfill his father's burial request, demonstrating his commitment to family and faith.

3. Jacob (Israel)
The father of Joseph, who has passed away. He made Joseph swear to bury him in the land of Canaan, reflecting his faith in God's promises.

4. Canaan
The land promised to Abraham and his descendants. Jacob's burial there signifies the continuation of God's covenant with his people.

5. Egypt
The place where Joseph and his family reside during the famine. It represents a place of provision and refuge, yet not the ultimate home for God's people.

Teaching Points

Respect for Authority
Joseph's approach to Pharaoh shows the importance of respecting and working within the structures of authority, even when fulfilling personal or religious obligations.

Faithfulness to Promises
Joseph's commitment to his father's burial request underscores the importance of keeping promises, especially those related to faith and family.

Significance of Burial
The burial of Jacob in Canaan is a testament to the belief in God's promises and the hope of future fulfillment. It reminds believers of the importance of living with an eternal perspective.

God's Sovereignty and Provision
The account highlights God's provision through Egypt and His sovereignty in fulfilling His promises, encouraging believers to trust in God's timing and plan.

Legacy of Faith
Jacob's desire to be buried in Canaan and Joseph's compliance reflect a legacy of faith that impacts future generations, encouraging believers to consider the spiritual legacy they are leaving.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's interaction with Pharaoh demonstrate the balance between respecting authority and fulfilling personal commitments? Can you think of a situation in your life where you had to balance these two?

2. What does Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan teach us about the importance of faith in God's promises? How can we apply this in our daily lives?

3. In what ways does the burial of Jacob in Canaan serve as a reminder of God's covenant with His people? How does this connect to the New Testament understanding of God's promises?

4. How does the account of Joseph and his family in Egypt illustrate God's provision and sovereignty? Can you identify a time when you experienced God's provision in unexpected ways?

5. What legacy of faith are you building for future generations? How can the actions of Joseph and Jacob inspire you to be intentional about your spiritual legacy?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 47:29-31
Jacob makes Joseph swear to bury him in Canaan, highlighting the importance of the promise and the connection to the covenant with Abraham.

Exodus 13:19
Moses takes Joseph's bones out of Egypt, showing the ongoing fulfillment of God's promises and the importance of burial in the Promised Land.

Hebrews 11:22
Joseph's faith is commended for his instructions about his bones, linking back to the faith of the patriarchs in God's promises.