Genesis 50:7

Then Joseph went to bury his father, and all the servants of Pharaoh accompanied him--the elders of Pharaoh's household and all the elders of the land of Egypt--

Study Bible

Then Joseph went to bury his father
Joseph's journey to bury his father, Jacob, signifies the fulfillment of Jacob's request to be buried in the land of Canaan, specifically in the cave of Machpelah (Genesis 49:29-32). This act of honoring his father's wishes demonstrates Joseph's deep respect and adherence to family traditions and promises. It also highlights the importance of burial practices in ancient times, where being laid to rest in one's ancestral land was a significant cultural and religious act.

and all the servants of Pharaoh accompanied him
The presence of Pharaoh's servants indicates the high regard in which Joseph was held in Egypt. As the second most powerful man in the nation, Joseph's influence extended to the royal court. This accompaniment by Pharaoh's servants underscores the respect and honor given to Joseph and his family, reflecting the strong relationship between Joseph and Pharaoh. It also illustrates the integration of Joseph's Hebrew heritage with his Egyptian status.

the elders of Pharaoh’s household
The elders of Pharaoh's household were likely high-ranking officials and advisors within the Egyptian government. Their participation in the funeral procession signifies the importance of the event and the respect for Joseph's family. This inclusion of Egyptian officials in a Hebrew burial ceremony highlights the blending of cultures and the mutual respect between Joseph and the Egyptian leadership.

and all the elders of the land of Egypt
The involvement of all the elders of Egypt further emphasizes the national significance of Jacob's burial. It suggests that Joseph's influence and the mourning for Jacob extended beyond the royal court to the broader Egyptian society. This widespread participation may also reflect the impact of Joseph's leadership during the years of famine, where he played a crucial role in preserving the nation. The event serves as a testament to the unity and cooperation between the Egyptians and the Hebrews during Joseph's time.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob (Israel) and a key figure in the account, who rose to power in Egypt and is now fulfilling his duty to bury his father.

2. Pharaoh’s Officials
High-ranking members of the Egyptian court who accompany Joseph, indicating the respect and honor given to Joseph and his family.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph rose to power and where Jacob and his family resided during the famine.

4. Jacob (Israel)
The father of Joseph, whose death prompts this journey for burial.

5. Canaan
The land where Jacob is to be buried, fulfilling his request to be laid to rest with his ancestors.

Teaching Points

Honor and Duty
Joseph’s commitment to burying his father as promised highlights the importance of honoring family commitments and fulfilling duties.

Respect Across Cultures
The presence of Egyptian dignitaries shows the respect Joseph commanded and the influence of godly character in a foreign land.

Faith in God’s Promises
Joseph’s actions are rooted in the belief in God’s promises to his forefathers, reminding us to trust in God’s faithfulness.

Community and Support
The collective journey to Canaan illustrates the importance of community support in times of mourning and transition.

Legacy and Heritage
Jacob’s burial in Canaan underscores the significance of spiritual heritage and the continuity of God’s covenant with His people.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph’s fulfillment of his father’s burial request reflect the biblical principle of honoring one’s parents, and how can we apply this in our lives today?

2. What does the participation of Pharaoh’s officials in the burial procession tell us about Joseph’s influence in Egypt, and how can we be a godly influence in our own communities?

3. In what ways does Joseph’s journey to bury his father demonstrate faith in God’s promises, and how can we cultivate a similar faith in our daily walk?

4. How does the communal aspect of the burial journey reflect the importance of community in times of grief, and how can we support others in our church or community who are experiencing loss?

5. What lessons can we learn from Jacob’s desire to be buried in Canaan about the importance of spiritual heritage, and how can we ensure that we pass on a godly legacy to future generations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 47:29-31
Jacob makes Joseph swear to bury him in Canaan, showing the importance of the burial location.

Exodus 13:19
Joseph’s bones are later carried out of Egypt, connecting to the theme of returning to the Promised Land.

Hebrews 11:22
Joseph’s faith is highlighted, including his instructions about his bones, showing his belief in God’s promises.