Genesis 47:29

When the time drew near for Israel to die, he called his son Joseph and said to him, "If I have found favor in your eyes, put your hand under my thigh and promise to show me kindness and faithfulness. Do not bury me in Egypt,

Study Bible

When the time drew near for Israel to die
The phrase indicates a significant moment in the life of Jacob, also known as Israel. The Hebrew root for "drew near" is "qarab," which often signifies approaching a sacred or pivotal moment. This is a time of transition, not just for Jacob, but for the entire family of Israel. Historically, this moment is crucial as it sets the stage for the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the Promised Land.

he called his son Joseph
Jacob's summoning of Joseph, his favored son, underscores the deep bond between them. Joseph, who had risen to power in Egypt, represents the hope and future of Israel's lineage. The act of calling Joseph signifies the passing of patriarchal blessings and responsibilities. In the cultural context, this was a moment of imparting wisdom and ensuring the continuation of family legacy.

and said to him, 'If I have found favor in your eyes
This phrase reflects a humble request from a father to his son, despite Jacob's patriarchal authority. The Hebrew word for "favor" is "chen," which denotes grace and acceptance. Jacob seeks assurance of Joseph's goodwill, emphasizing the relational dynamics of love and respect within the family.

put your hand under my thigh
This ancient Near Eastern custom was a solemn oath-taking gesture, symbolizing a deep commitment. The thigh, being close to the source of life and procreation, represented the seriousness of the vow. This act was not merely a personal request but a binding covenant with implications for future generations.

and promise that you will show me kindness and faithfulness
The words "kindness" and "faithfulness" are translated from the Hebrew "chesed" and "emet," respectively. "Chesed" implies steadfast love and mercy, while "emet" denotes truth and reliability. Jacob is asking Joseph to act with integrity and loyalty, reflecting God's covenantal love.

Do not bury me in Egypt
Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan, rather than Egypt, is deeply rooted in the promises of God. Canaan is the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. This request signifies Jacob's faith in God's promises and his desire to be part of the covenantal lineage. It also serves as a prophetic act, pointing to the eventual exodus of the Israelites from Egypt and their return to the Promised Land.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Israel (Jacob)
The patriarch of the Israelites, originally named Jacob, who is nearing the end of his life and making final arrangements with his son Joseph.

2. Joseph
Jacob's beloved son, who rose to power in Egypt and is entrusted with fulfilling his father's burial wishes.

3. Egypt
The land where Jacob and his family have settled during the famine, but not the land of promise given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

4. Promise and Oath
The cultural practice of placing a hand under the thigh as a solemn oath, signifying a serious commitment.

5. Burial Request
Jacob's desire to be buried in Canaan, the land promised to his descendants, reflecting his faith in God's promises.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan reflects his unwavering faith in God's covenant promises. Believers are encouraged to hold fast to God's promises, even when circumstances seem contrary.

The Importance of Legacy
Jacob's concern for his burial place underscores the importance of leaving a legacy of faith. Christians should consider how their actions and decisions impact future generations.

Honoring Commitments
Joseph's willingness to fulfill his father's request highlights the importance of integrity and faithfulness in keeping promises. Believers are called to be people of their word.

Cultural Practices and Their Significance
Understanding the cultural context of biblical events can deepen our appreciation of the text. The oath-taking practice signifies the gravity of Jacob's request and Joseph's commitment.

Preparation for the Future
Jacob's preparations for his death remind us of the importance of planning for the future, both practically and spiritually. Christians should live with an eternal perspective, preparing for their heavenly home.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan demonstrate his faith in God's promises, and how can we apply this faith in our own lives today?

2. In what ways does Joseph's response to his father's request illustrate the importance of honoring commitments, and how can we practice this in our relationships?

3. How does the cultural practice of oath-taking in Genesis 47:29 enhance our understanding of the seriousness of Jacob's request?

4. What legacy of faith are you building for future generations, and how can you ensure it aligns with God's promises?

5. How can we prepare for our future, both practically and spiritually, in a way that reflects our trust in God's eternal promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 24:2-3
Similar oath-taking practice when Abraham's servant swears to find a wife for Isaac, highlighting the seriousness of such promises.

Hebrews 11:21
Jacob's faith is commended, showing his trust in God's promises even at the end of his life.

Genesis 50:5-13
The fulfillment of Jacob's request by Joseph, demonstrating Joseph's faithfulness and the importance of honoring one's word.