The men are shepherds; they raise livestock, and they have brought their flocks and herds and all that they own.' The men are shepherdsThis phrase identifies the profession of Joseph's brothers, which is significant in the context of ancient Egypt. The Hebrew word for "shepherds" is "רֹעֵי" (ro'ei), which denotes those who tend to flocks. Historically, shepherds were often seen as lowly or humble, yet they held an essential role in agrarian societies. In Egypt, shepherds were considered an abomination (Genesis 46:34), which sets the stage for the Israelites' separation in the land of Goshen. This separation would later protect them from cultural assimilation and preserve their identity as God's chosen people. they raise livestock and they have brought their flocks and herds and all that they own Persons / Places / Events 1. Jacob (Israel)The patriarch of the Israelites, who is moving his family to Egypt during a time of famine. 2. Joseph Jacob's son, who has risen to a position of power in Egypt and is facilitating his family's relocation. 3. Pharaoh The ruler of Egypt, who has granted permission for Joseph's family to settle in the land of Goshen. 4. Goshen The region in Egypt where Joseph's family is to settle, known for its fertile land suitable for grazing. 5. Shepherds The occupation of Jacob's family, which is significant in the context of Egyptian society, where shepherds were often looked down upon. Teaching Points God's Provision and GuidanceJust as God provided for Jacob's family during a time of famine, He continues to provide for His people today. Trust in His guidance and provision, even in difficult circumstances. Cultural Distinctions and God's Plan The Israelites' identity as shepherds set them apart in Egypt, reminding us that God's people are often called to be distinct from the surrounding culture. Embrace your identity in Christ, even when it sets you apart. Faithfulness in Occupation The occupation of shepherding, though looked down upon by Egyptians, was integral to God's plan for Israel. Whatever your occupation, work faithfully as unto the Lord, knowing He can use it for His purposes. Family and Community The relocation of Jacob's entire family underscores the importance of family unity and support. Prioritize relationships within your family and faith community, recognizing their role in God's plan for your life. Bible Study Questions 1. How does the occupation of shepherding in Genesis 46:32 relate to the broader account of God's provision for Israel?2. In what ways does the cultural perception of shepherds in Egypt challenge or affirm your understanding of being set apart as a Christian today? 3. How can the concept of God as a shepherd, as seen in Psalm 23 and John 10, influence your daily walk with Him? 4. What lessons can we learn from Jacob's family's move to Egypt about trusting God's plan during times of transition or uncertainty? 5. How can you apply the principle of faithfulness in your current occupation or role, knowing that God can use it for His purposes? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 47This chapter continues the account of Jacob's family settling in Egypt and their interactions with Pharaoh, highlighting the fulfillment of God's promise to preserve Jacob's lineage. Exodus 1 The eventual enslavement of the Israelites in Egypt, which sets the stage for the Exodus, showing the long-term implications of their settlement in Goshen. Psalm 23 The imagery of shepherding is used to describe God's care and guidance, drawing a parallel to the role of shepherds in providing for and protecting their flocks. John 10 Jesus refers to Himself as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing the spiritual significance of shepherding as a metaphor for leadership and care.
People Aram, Ard, Areli, Arodi, Asenath, Ashbel, Asher, Becher, Bela, Belah, Benjamin, Beriah, Bilhah, Canaanitish, Carmi, Dan, Dinah, Egyptians, Ehi, Elon, Enoch, Er, Eri, Ezbon, Gad, Gera, Gershon, Guni, Haggai, Haggi, Hamul, Hanoch, Heber, Hezron, Huppim, Hushim, Imnah, Isaac, Ishuah, Issachar, Isui, Jachin, Jacob, Jahleel, Jahzeel, Jahziel, Jamin, Jashub, Jemuel, Jezer, Jimnah, Job, Joseph, Kohath, Laban, Leah, Levi, Malchiel, Manasseh, Merari, Muppim, Naaman, Naphtali, Ohad, Onan, Pallu, Perez, Phallu, Pharaoh, Pharez, Phuvah, Potipherah, Puah, Rachel, Reuben, Rosh, Sarah, Saul, Serah, Sered, Shaul, Shelah, Shillem, Shimron, Shuni, Simeon, Tola, Zarah, Zebulun, Zephon, Zerah, Zilpah, Ziphion, ZoharPlaces Beersheba, Canaan, Egypt, Goshen, On, Paddan-aramTopics Along, Cattle, Employment, Feed, Feeders, Flock, Flocks, Herd, Herds, Keepers, Livestock, Occupied, Owners, Sheep, Shepherds, Tend, TradeDictionary of Bible Themes Genesis 46:32Library Estimate of the Scope and Value of Jerome's Writings. General. The writings of Jerome must be estimated not merely by their intrinsic merits, but by his historical position and influence. It has already been pointed out that he stands at the close of the old Græco-Roman civilisation: the last Roman poet of any repute, Claudian, and the last Roman historian, Ammianus Marcellinus, died before him. Augustin survived him, but the other great Fathers, both in the East and in the West, had passed away before him. The sack of Rome by Alaric (410) and … St. Jerome—The Principal Works of St. Jerome Four Shaping Centuries The Faith of Moses. The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus But in Order that we Fall not Away from Continence... Genesis Links Genesis 46:32 NIVGenesis 46:32 NLT Genesis 46:32 ESV Genesis 46:32 NASB Genesis 46:32 KJV Genesis 46:32 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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