The Egyptian Procession to Canaan is a significant event recorded in the biblical narrative, primarily found in the Book of Genesis. This event is intricately linked to the life of Joseph, the son of Jacob, who rose to prominence in Egypt and played a pivotal role in the survival of his family during a severe famine.

Context and Background

The account begins with Joseph, who, after being sold into slavery by his brothers, eventually becomes the second most powerful man in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh (Genesis 41:40-41). Through divine providence, Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams, predicting seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine (Genesis 41:29-30). As a result, Joseph is appointed to oversee the collection and storage of grain during the years of plenty, ensuring Egypt's survival during the subsequent famine.

The Famine and Joseph's Family

The famine extends beyond Egypt, affecting the land of Canaan where Joseph's family resides. Jacob, Joseph's father, sends his sons to Egypt to buy grain (Genesis 42:1-3). Unbeknownst to them, they encounter Joseph, who recognizes them but does not reveal his identity immediately. After a series of tests to ascertain their character and repentance, Joseph reveals himself to his brothers, leading to a tearful reunion (Genesis 45:1-3).

The Procession to Egypt

Joseph invites his entire family to come to Egypt to escape the famine, promising them the best of the land (Genesis 45:9-11). Pharaoh also extends an invitation, offering them the land of Goshen, a fertile area suitable for their livestock (Genesis 45:17-18). Jacob, also known as Israel, receives the news with joy and sets out for Egypt with his family and all their possessions (Genesis 46:1-7).

The Journey and Arrival in Egypt

The journey from Canaan to Egypt is marked by divine assurance. God speaks to Jacob in visions, reassuring him not to fear going down to Egypt, for He will make Jacob's family into a great nation there (Genesis 46:2-4). Jacob's family, numbering seventy persons, makes the journey to Egypt, marking the beginning of their sojourn in a foreign land (Genesis 46:27).

Upon their arrival, Joseph meets his father Jacob in Goshen, where they have an emotional reunion (Genesis 46:29-30). Joseph presents his family to Pharaoh, who grants them permission to settle in the best part of the land, thus ensuring their prosperity and growth (Genesis 47:5-6).

Significance

The Egyptian Procession to Canaan is a pivotal moment in biblical history, setting the stage for the Israelites' eventual enslavement and subsequent Exodus. It highlights themes of divine providence, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Joseph's role as a savior figure foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, while the journey to Egypt underscores God's faithfulness in preserving His chosen people, even in foreign lands.