◄ Genesis 50 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Mourning and Burial for Jacob 1Then Joseph fell upon his father’s face, wept over him, and kissed him. 2And Joseph directed the physicians in his service to embalm his father Israel. So they embalmed him, 3taking the forty days required to complete the embalming. And the Egyptians mourned for him seventy days. 4When the days of mourning had passed, Joseph said to Pharaoh’s court, “If I have found favor in your eyes, please tell Pharaoh that 5my father made me swear an oath when he said, ‘I am about to die. You must bury me in the tomb that I dug for myself in the land of Canaan.’ Now let me go and bury my father, and then return.” 6Pharaoh replied, “Go up and bury your father, as he made you swear to do.” 7Then 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— 8along with all of Joseph’s household, and his brothers, and his father’s household. Only their children and flocks and herds were left in Goshen. 9Chariots and horsemen alike went up with him, and it was an exceedingly large procession. 10When they reached the threshing floor of Atad, which is across the Jordan, they lamented and wailed loudly, and Joseph mourned for his father seven days. 11When the Canaanites of the land saw the mourning at the threshing floor of Atad, they said, “This is a solemn ceremony of mourning by the Egyptians.” Thus the place across the Jordan is called Abel-mizraim.a 12So Jacob’s sons did as he had charged them. 13They carried him to the land of Canaan and buried him in the cave at Machpelah in the field near Mamre, which Abraham had purchased from Ephron the Hittite as a burial site. 14After Joseph had buried his father, he returned to Egypt with his brothers and all who had gone with him to bury his father. Joseph Comforts His Brothers 15When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What if Joseph bears a grudge? Then he will surely repay us for all the evil that we did to him.” 16So they sent word to Joseph, saying, “Before he died, your father commanded, 17‘This is what you are to say to Joseph: I beg you, please forgive the transgression and sin of your brothers, for they did you wrong.’ So now, Joseph, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father.” When their message came to him, Joseph wept. 18His brothers also came to him, bowed down before him, and said, “We are your slaves!” 19But Joseph replied, “Do not be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people. 21Therefore do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your little ones.” So Joseph reassured his brothers and spoke kindly to them. The Death of Joseph 22Now Joseph and his father’s household remained in Egypt, and Joseph lived to the age of 110. 23He saw Ephraim’s sons to the third generation, and indeed the sons of Machir son of Manasseh were brought upb on Joseph’s knees. 24Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am about to die, but God will surely visit you and bring you up from this land to the land He promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.” 25And Joseph made the sons of Israel take an oath and said, “God will surely attend to you, and then you must carry my bones up from this place.” 26So Joseph died at the age of 110. And they embalmed his body and placed it in a coffin in Egypt. Footnotes: 11 a Abel-mizraim means mourning of the Egyptians. 23 b Or born or placed at birth Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Genesis 50 Summary Mourning and Burial Verses 1–3 – Joseph’s Grief and Embalming Joseph falls on his father Jacob’s face, weeps, and kisses him. He orders his personal physicians to embalm Jacob; the process takes forty days. Egypt mourns for seventy days, signaling the nation’s respect for Joseph and his family. Verses 4–6 – Permission from Pharaoh When the official mourning period ends, Joseph petitions Pharaoh’s court, reminding them of Jacob’s oath to be buried in Canaan. Pharaoh authorizes the journey. Verses 7–9 – The Grand Funeral Procession A vast entourage—Joseph’s brothers, palace officials, elders of Egypt, chariots, and horsemen—accompanies the body. Only small children and flocks remain in Goshen. Verses 10–14 – Mourning at Atad and Burial at Machpelah At the threshing floor of Atad, east of the Jordan, the company holds a seven-day lament so intense that local Canaanites name the place “Abel-mizraim” (Mourning of Egypt). Jacob is then laid to rest in the cave of Machpelah, the family tomb in Hebron. Joseph and the company return to Egypt afterward. Verses 15–18 – Brothers’ Fear and Plea for Mercy With Jacob gone, the brothers worry Joseph will retaliate for their earlier betrayal. They send a message claiming Jacob’s dying wish that Joseph forgive them, then personally bow before him, offering themselves as servants. Verses 19–21 – Joseph’s Forgiveness and God’s Plan Joseph calms them: “Do not be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good...” (50:19–20). He promises to provide for them and their children, speaking kindly to them. Verses 22–26 – Joseph’s Final Years and Last Oath Joseph lives to 110, seeing great-grandchildren. Before dying, he reminds Israel that God will visit them and bring them to the Promised Land. He makes them swear to carry his bones when that day comes. Joseph is embalmed and placed in a coffin in Egypt. This passage details the mourning and burial of Jacob, the brothers' fear of Joseph's retaliation, Joseph's gracious forgiveness, and his peaceful death. It emphasizes the theme of forgiveness and the importance of fulfilling promises, while also showing the value of trusting God's providential plan. Historical and Cultural Insights • Egyptian embalming: Forty days aligns with known mummification timelines. The practice preserved bodies for the afterlife, yet here it respectfully serves Jacob’s burial wish in Canaan. • Seventy-day mourning: Egyptian records show royal mourning of seventy-two days; Jacob receives nearly royal honors because of Joseph’s standing. • Threshing floor of Atad: A large open space, ideal for assembling a great company. Naming the site “Abel-mizraim” shows how foreign grief made a lasting local impression. Geography and Archaeology • Goshen: The fertile eastern Nile Delta, well-suited for livestock. Excavations at Tel el-Daba (Avaris) reveal Asiatic (Semitic) presence during the period, matching Israel’s settlement. • Machpelah: The cave in Hebron purchased by Abraham (Genesis 23). The structure later built over it—the Cave of the Patriarchs—still stands, attesting to continuous recognition of the site. • Route to Canaan: Likely skirted Sinai via the coastal or inland roads, then crossed the Jordan to approach Hebron from the east, explaining the stop at Atad. Family, Forgiveness, and Providence • Joseph’s tears (vv. 1, 17) display genuine emotion, not weakness. Scripture often links tears with strength of character (John 11:35; 2 Timothy 1:4). • Joseph refuses revenge: Compare Romans 12:19—“Vengeance is Mine, says the Lord.” • Divine overruling: Genesis 50:20 echoes Romans 8:28. Human wrongdoing cannot derail God’s saving purposes. Promise and Hope for the Future • “God will surely visit you” (v. 24) is the book’s final note, pivoting from family account to national redemption. It foreshadows Exodus 3:16-17, Joshua 24:32 (Joseph’s bones buried at Shechem), and Hebrews 11:22, where Joseph’s faith is celebrated. • The oath about Joseph’s bones kept Israel mindful of their true homeland during centuries in Egypt. Links to Other Scriptures • Burial in ancestral land: Abraham (Genesis 25:9), Isaac (35:29), Jacob here—covenant identity is tied to place. • Grand processions: David’s funeral (1 Chronicles 10 – 11) and the later return from exile (Ezra 1-2) echo this theme of honoring God’s servants. • Forgiveness among brothers: Anticipates Jesus’ command in Matthew 6:14-15 and Paul’s appeal in Colossians 3:13. Looking Forward to the Messiah • Joseph’s suffering turned to salvation for many echoes Jesus’ betrayal, crucifixion, and resurrection (Acts 2:23-24). • Joseph’s promise of God’s visitation hints at the ultimate “visitation” when “the Word became flesh” (John 1:14). • Carrying Joseph’s bones anticipates an empty tomb—God will not leave His servants in Egypt (death) but will bring them home (life). Life Lessons and Practical Takeaways • Grieve deeply yet hopefully; faith does not cancel sorrow. • Keep your word, even across generations. • When wronged, trust God’s higher plan and choose forgiveness. • Finish well: like Jacob and Joseph, pass on faith’s promises, not just possessions. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you. Hebrews 11:22 By faith Joseph, when his end was near, spoke about the exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions about his bones. Teaching Points Joseph's Grief and Honor for His Father Genesis 50:1-14 describes Joseph's deep mourning for his father, Jacob, and his commitment to honoring Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan. This demonstrates the importance of honoring one's parents and fulfilling their wishes. Forgiveness and Reconciliation In Genesis 50:15-21, Joseph's brothers fear retribution after Jacob's death. Joseph reassures them, saying, You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good, to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives (Genesis 50:20). This highlights the power of forgiveness and the recognition of God's hand in all circumstances. God's Sovereignty and Providence Joseph's acknowledgment of God's purpose in his suffering underscores the theme of divine sovereignty. Despite human intentions, God's plan prevails, turning what was meant for evil into good. The Promise of God's Faithfulness In Genesis 50:22-26, Joseph speaks of God's promise to bring the Israelites out of Egypt and into the land He swore to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Joseph's faith in God's promises is evident as he requests that his bones be carried to the Promised Land. Practical Applications Embrace Forgiveness Like Joseph, we are called to forgive those who have wronged us, trusting that God can use even painful experiences for His greater purpose. Trust in God's Plan In times of uncertainty or suffering, remember that God's sovereignty is at work, and He can bring good out of any situation. Honor Your Parents Follow Joseph's example in showing respect and fulfilling the wishes of your parents, recognizing the importance of family bonds. Hold Fast to God's Promises Just as Joseph believed in God's promise to his forefathers, we should hold fast to the promises God has given us in His Word. People 1. Joseph Joseph is the central figure in Genesis 50. He is the son of Jacob (Israel) and was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt. In this chapter, Joseph mourns his father Jacob's death, ensures his burial in Canaan, and reassures his brothers of his forgiveness. The Hebrew name "Yosef" (יוֹסֵף) means "He will add," reflecting his role in God's plan to preserve his family. 2. Jacob (Israel) Jacob, also known as Israel, is the father of Joseph and his brothers. His death and burial are significant events in this chapter. Jacob's body is embalmed and taken to Canaan for burial in the cave of Machpelah, as he had requested. The name "Israel" (יִשְׂרָאֵל) means "God contends" or "one who struggles with God." 3. Pharaoh The Pharaoh of Egypt is mentioned as the ruler who allows Joseph to leave Egypt to bury his father in Canaan. Although not directly involved in the narrative, his permission is crucial for the fulfillment of Jacob's burial wishes. 4. Joseph's Brothers The brothers of Joseph, who had previously sold him into slavery, are present in this chapter. They express fear that Joseph might seek revenge after their father's death, but Joseph reassures them of his forgiveness and God's providential plan. 5. The Egyptians The Egyptians are mentioned as mourning for Jacob for seventy days, showing the respect Joseph commanded in Egypt. They also accompany Joseph and his family to Canaan for the burial. 6. The Canaanites The Canaanites observe the mourning procession and comment on the significant mourning by the Egyptians, referring to the place as Abel-mizraim, which means "mourning of Egypt." 7. Ephraim and Manasseh Although not directly mentioned in the narrative of Genesis 50, Joseph's sons, Ephraim and Manasseh, are part of his family and would have been involved in the events surrounding Jacob's death and burial. Places 1. Egypt Egypt is the primary setting for the events of Genesis 50. It is where Joseph and his family reside, and where Jacob (Israel) dies. The embalming and mourning for Jacob take place in Egypt. The Hebrew word for Egypt is "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim). 2. Canaan Canaan is the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. Jacob requests to be buried in Canaan, in the cave of the field of Machpelah, which he purchased. The Hebrew word for Canaan is "כְּנַעַן" (Kena'an). 3. Goshen Goshen is the region in Egypt where the Israelites settled. It is mentioned as the starting point for the journey to bury Jacob in Canaan. The Hebrew word for Goshen is "גֹּשֶׁן" (Goshen). 4. Atad The threshing floor of Atad is where Joseph and the funeral procession stop to mourn for seven days. It is located beyond the Jordan. The Hebrew word for Atad is "אָטָד" (Atad). 5. Jordan The Jordan River is mentioned as a geographical marker, indicating the location of the threshing floor of Atad. The Hebrew word for Jordan is "יַרְדֵּן" (Yarden). 6. Machpelah The cave of Machpelah is the burial site of the patriarchs and matriarchs, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. It is located in the field near Mamre, in Canaan. The Hebrew word for Machpelah is "מַכְפֵּלָה" (Machpelah). Events 1. Joseph Mourns Jacob's Death After Jacob's death, Joseph falls upon his father's face, weeps over him, and kisses him. This act of mourning reflects the deep respect and love Joseph had for his father (Genesis 50:1). 2. Embalming of Jacob Joseph commands the physicians to embalm his father, which takes forty days, as was customary in Egypt. The Egyptians mourn for Jacob for seventy days, indicating the high regard in which he was held (Genesis 50:2-3). 3. Request to Pharaoh Joseph requests permission from Pharaoh to go up and bury his father in the land of Canaan, as Jacob had made him swear to do. Joseph's respectful approach to Pharaoh shows his continued loyalty and respect for Egyptian authority (Genesis 50:4-6). 4. Jacob's Burial Procession A great company, including Joseph, his brothers, and Egyptian dignitaries, accompanies Jacob's body to Canaan. This large procession underscores the importance of Jacob and the respect he commanded (Genesis 50:7-9). 5. Burial at the Cave of Machpelah Jacob is buried in the cave of the field of Machpelah, which Abraham had purchased. This fulfills Jacob's request to be buried with his ancestors, highlighting the significance of the family burial site (Genesis 50:10-14). 6. Joseph Reassures His Brothers After their father's death, Joseph's brothers fear retribution for their past wrongs. Joseph reassures them, saying, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good," demonstrating his forgiveness and understanding of God's providence (Genesis 50:15-21). 7. Joseph's Final Years and Death Joseph lives to see his great-grandchildren and makes the Israelites swear to carry his bones out of Egypt when God leads them to the promised land. Joseph's death at 110 years old marks the end of an era, and he is embalmed and placed in a coffin in Egypt (Genesis 50:22-26). Lessons from Genesis 50 1. The Power of Forgiveness Genesis 50:20 reminds us of the transformative power of forgiveness: "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish a day like this—to preserve the lives of many people." Joseph's ability to forgive his brothers for their betrayal is a testament to the healing and redemptive power of forgiveness. By letting go of past grievances, we open ourselves to God's greater plan and allow His love to work through us. 2. Trust in God's Sovereignty Joseph's story is a powerful reminder that God is in control, even when circumstances seem dire. Genesis 50:19 says, "But Joseph replied, 'Do not be afraid. Am I in the place of God?'" Joseph understood that God’s plans are higher than our own, and trusting in His sovereignty brings peace and assurance, even in the face of adversity. 3. The Importance of Reconciliation Joseph's reconciliation with his brothers highlights the importance of mending broken relationships. Genesis 50:21 states, "So now, do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your little ones." By choosing reconciliation, Joseph not only restored his family but also ensured their future well-being, demonstrating the blessings that come from healing and unity. 4. God's Faithfulness to His Promises Genesis 50:24 shows Joseph's unwavering faith in God's promises: "And Joseph said to his brothers, 'I am about to die, but God will surely visit you and bring you up from this land to the land He promised on oath to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.'" Joseph's confidence in God's faithfulness encourages us to hold fast to His promises, knowing that He is always true to His word. 5. The Legacy of Faith Joseph's life serves as a powerful legacy of faith for future generations. In Genesis 50:25, Joseph makes the Israelites swear to carry his bones out of Egypt, signifying his belief in God's promise to bring them to the Promised Land. This act of faith inspires us to leave a legacy that points others to God's eternal promises. 6. The Role of Providence Joseph's journey from the pit to the palace illustrates the role of divine providence in our lives. Genesis 50:20 shows how God can use even the most challenging situations for His glory and our good. Recognizing God's hand in our lives helps us to trust His timing and purpose, even when we cannot see the full picture. 7. Compassion in Leadership Joseph's leadership was marked by compassion and care for those under his charge. Genesis 50:21 highlights his commitment to providing for his family: "So now, do not be afraid. I will provide for you and your little ones." As leaders, we are called to emulate Joseph's example by leading with empathy and a servant's heart. 8. The Impact of a Godly Life Joseph's life had a profound impact on those around him, from Pharaoh to his own family. His integrity and faithfulness to God served as a powerful witness to God's goodness. Our lives, too, can be a testament to God's love and grace, influencing others to seek Him. 9. The Assurance of God's Presence Throughout Joseph's trials, he was assured of God's presence. Genesis 50:20 reflects this assurance, as Joseph acknowledges God's hand in his life. In our own lives, we can find comfort in knowing that God is always with us, guiding and sustaining us through every challenge. 10. Hope Beyond This Life Joseph's final words in Genesis 50:24-25 point to a hope beyond this life, as he looked forward to God's fulfillment of His promises. This hope is a reminder that our ultimate home is with God, and our lives here are but a prelude to the eternal joy that awaits us in His presence. Let this hope inspire us to live with purpose and anticipation of the glorious future God has prepared for us. Topics 1. Joseph Mourns Jacob's Death Genesis 50 begins with Joseph mourning the death of his father, Jacob. Joseph's deep sorrow is expressed through traditional mourning practices, including weeping and embalming, which was a common Egyptian custom. The Hebrew word for "mourn" (אָבַל, 'aval) indicates a profound expression of grief. 2. Jacob's Burial Request Fulfilled Joseph honors Jacob's request to be buried in the land of Canaan. This reflects the importance of the covenantal promise tied to the land. Joseph seeks Pharaoh's permission to leave Egypt temporarily, demonstrating respect for authority and fulfilling familial and covenantal obligations. 3. The Egyptian Procession to Canaan A grand procession, including Egyptian officials, accompanies Joseph to Canaan for Jacob's burial. This highlights Joseph's high status in Egypt and the respect afforded to Jacob. The Hebrew term for "chariots" (רֶכֶב, rekhev) and "horsemen" (פָּרָשִׁים, parashim) indicates a significant military presence, underscoring the importance of the event. 4. Burial at the Cave of Machpelah Jacob is buried in the Cave of Machpelah, which Abraham purchased as a family burial site. This act reaffirms the patriarchal connection to the Promised Land. The Hebrew word for "cave" (מְעָרָה, me'arah) signifies a place of rest and continuity for the patriarchs. 5. Joseph's Reassurance to His Brothers After Jacob's death, Joseph's brothers fear retribution for their past wrongs. Joseph reassures them, emphasizing God's sovereignty and providence. The Hebrew word for "forgive" (נָשָׂא, nasa) conveys the lifting or bearing away of guilt, reflecting Joseph's gracious attitude. 6. Joseph's Faith in God's Plan Joseph acknowledges that what his brothers intended for harm, God intended for good. This demonstrates a deep trust in God's overarching plan and purpose. The Hebrew term for "intended" (חָשַׁב, chashav) implies a deliberate and thoughtful plan, highlighting divine providence. 7. Joseph's Promise of Provision Joseph promises to provide for his brothers and their families, ensuring their well-being in Egypt. This act of kindness reflects Joseph's forgiving nature and commitment to family unity. The Hebrew word for "provide" (כּוּל, kul) suggests sustaining and supporting, indicating Joseph's role as a provider. 8. Joseph's Death and Final Instructions The chapter concludes with Joseph's death at the age of 110. Before his death, Joseph makes the Israelites swear to carry his bones to Canaan, expressing his faith in God's promise to bring them back to the Promised Land. The Hebrew word for "bones" (עֶצֶם, etsem) symbolizes the enduring connection to the land and the covenant. Themes 1. Mourning and Burial Practices Genesis 50 begins with the mourning and burial of Jacob. Joseph and his brothers honor their father by embalming him and taking him to Canaan for burial, as per his wishes. This reflects the importance of honoring one's parents and fulfilling their last requests, a theme rooted in the Hebrew concept of ^kavod^ (כָּבוֹד), meaning honor or respect. 2. Forgiveness and Reconciliation After Jacob's death, Joseph's brothers fear retribution for their past wrongs against him. Joseph reassures them, saying, "Do not be afraid. Am I in the place of God?" (Genesis 50:19). This theme highlights the Christian principle of forgiveness and the relinquishing of vengeance, aligning with the Hebrew word ^selichah^ (סְלִיחָה), meaning forgiveness. 3. Divine Providence Joseph acknowledges God's sovereignty in turning his brothers' evil intentions into good, saying, "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good" (Genesis 50:20). This theme emphasizes the belief in God's providential care and the idea that He can bring good out of human actions, a concept linked to the Hebrew word ^hashgachah^ (הַשְׁגָּחָה), meaning divine supervision. 4. Faithfulness to Promises Joseph makes the Israelites swear to carry his bones out of Egypt when God delivers them, reflecting his faith in God's promises. This theme underscores the importance of faith and trust in God's covenant, as seen in the Hebrew word ^emunah^ (אֱמוּנָה), meaning faithfulness or trust. 5. Legacy and Continuity The chapter concludes with Joseph's death and embalming, mirroring the beginning of the chapter with Jacob's death. This theme of legacy and continuity is significant in the narrative, emphasizing the ongoing account of God's people and His promises to them, as seen in the Hebrew concept of ^dor^ (דּוֹר), meaning generation. Prayer Points Pray for the strength to forgive those who have wronged you, trusting in God's greater plan. Ask God to help you see His hand at work in your life, even in difficult circumstances. Pray for the ability to honor and respect your parents, following the example of Joseph. Seek God's guidance in holding onto His promises and living by faith, as Joseph did. Answering Tough Questions 1. Does the claim in Genesis 50:2–3 that Jacob was embalmed for forty days align with known Egyptian practices, or does it conflict with historical records? 2. In Genesis 50:5–6, how plausible is it that Pharaoh would permit Joseph to transport Jacob’s remains such a great distance for burial, considering political and logistical realities of the time? 3. Genesis 50:10–11 details a prolonged mourning at the threshing floor of Atad; is there any archaeological evidence for this specific location or for such large-scale ceremonies there? 4. In Genesis 50:15–21, Joseph attributes the brothers’ actions to divine planning. How does this fit with secular or historical perspectives that discount supernatural causality? 5. Genesis 50:24–25 mentions Joseph’s assurance that his bones will eventually leave Egypt. Is there any extrabiblical evidence suggesting a later fulfillment of this promise? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do the burial rites for Jacob show respect for his wishes and heritage? 2. What does Joseph's reaction to his brothers' message tell us about his character and spiritual growth? 3. How would you handle a situation like Joseph's brothers, fearing retaliation after the death of a common loved one? 4. How does Joseph's response to his brothers reflect the biblical teaching of forgiveness? 5. How does Joseph's understanding of God's sovereignty affect his relationship with his brothers? 6. How does Joseph's life and death demonstrate the fulfillment of God's promises? 7. What can we learn about dealing with guilt and seeking forgiveness from the actions of Joseph's brothers? 8. How does Joseph's final act reflect his faith in God's promise to his ancestors? 9. What lesson does Joseph's request about his bones carry for believers today? 10. How does Joseph's long life and peaceful death reflect God's blessings? 11. How does Joseph model an attitude of forgiveness and grace in the face of wrongdoing? 12. How does this passage underscore the theme of God turning evil intentions for good? 13. How does Joseph's assurance to his brothers demonstrate the continued importance of family ties? 14. Why do you think Joseph wept when he received his brothers' message? 15. What can we learn about handling fear and seeking reconciliation from this passage? 16. What implications does the Egyptians' mourning for Jacob hold for his status in Egyptian society? 17. How does the fulfillment of Jacob's burial wish symbolize the importance of honoring the wishes of the deceased? 18. What can we learn from Joseph's prediction of Israelites' future return to Canaan? 19. How can we see God's hand at work in the lives of Joseph and his family throughout their story? 20. How does this passage inspire you to trust in God's promises and His plan for your life? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions