Genesis 50:14

After Joseph had buried his father, he returned to Egypt with his brothers and all who had gone with him to bury his father.

Study Bible

After Joseph had buried his father
This phrase marks the completion of a significant and emotional task for Joseph. The Hebrew root for "buried" is קָבַר (qabar), which implies a respectful and solemn act of laying someone to rest. Joseph's actions reflect his deep respect and love for his father, Jacob, and his adherence to the cultural and familial duties of the time. This moment also signifies the end of an era for the family, as Jacob was a patriarch whose life and faith had a profound impact on his descendants.

he returned to Egypt
Joseph's return to Egypt signifies a return to his responsibilities and life in a foreign land where he had risen to a position of great power. Egypt, in the biblical narrative, often represents a place of both refuge and trial for the Israelites. Joseph's journey back to Egypt underscores his role as a leader who must balance his personal grief with his public duties. It also foreshadows the eventual enslavement of the Israelites, setting the stage for the Exodus narrative.

with his brothers
The inclusion of Joseph's brothers in this phrase highlights the unity and reconciliation that had been achieved within the family. Despite their earlier betrayal, Joseph's forgiveness and leadership have brought them together. This unity is crucial for the survival and future of the Israelite people. The brothers' presence also emphasizes the importance of family and community in fulfilling God's promises.

and all who had gone with him to bury his father
This phrase indicates that a large entourage accompanied Joseph, reflecting his high status in Egypt and the respect accorded to Jacob. The group likely included Egyptian officials and servants, illustrating the integration of Joseph's Hebrew heritage with his Egyptian life. This diverse assembly underscores the widespread impact of Jacob's legacy and the respect he commanded, even in a foreign land. It also serves as a reminder of God's providence in bringing Joseph to a place where he could save his family and many others during a time of famine.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, who rose to power in Egypt. He is a central figure in the account, demonstrating forgiveness and leadership.

2. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch whose death and burial are the focus of this passage. His burial in Canaan fulfills his request to be laid to rest with his ancestors.

3. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who accompany Joseph to bury their father. Their relationship with Joseph is a key theme in the account.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph and his family reside during the famine. It represents both a place of refuge and a place of future bondage for the Israelites.

5. Canaan
The Promised Land where Jacob is buried, symbolizing God's covenant and promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Teaching Points

Honoring Family and Heritage
Joseph's actions in burying his father in Canaan highlight the importance of honoring family wishes and respecting one's heritage. This teaches us to value our family ties and cultural roots.

Faithfulness to Promises
Joseph's fulfillment of his father's burial request underscores the importance of keeping promises. As Christians, we are called to be people of our word, reflecting God's faithfulness.

The Journey of Faith
The return to Egypt after the burial signifies the ongoing journey of faith. Like Joseph and his family, we are often called to live in places that are not our ultimate home, trusting in God's future promises.

Leadership and Responsibility
Joseph's leadership in organizing the burial and returning to Egypt with his family shows the balance of personal responsibility and leadership. We are encouraged to lead with integrity and care for those entrusted to us.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's fulfillment of Jacob's burial request reflect the importance of honoring family commitments in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the burial of Jacob in Canaan serve as a reminder of God's promises to His people? How can we apply this to our understanding of God's faithfulness today?

3. How does Joseph's leadership in this passage inspire us to take responsibility in our own families and communities?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's return to Egypt about living faithfully in places that are not our ultimate home?

5. How does the theme of faithfulness in Genesis 50:14 connect to other biblical accounts, such as the Exodus or the life of Jesus? How can these connections deepen our understanding of God's character?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 47:29-31
Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan, which Joseph honors, showing the importance of fulfilling promises and respecting one's heritage.

Exodus 13:19
Joseph's bones are later carried out of Egypt, connecting to the theme of God's faithfulness in bringing His people to the Promised Land.

Hebrews 11:22
Joseph's faith is highlighted, as he speaks of the Exodus and gives instructions about his bones, demonstrating his trust in God's promises.