Genesis 47:28

And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years, and the length of his life was 147 years.

Study Bible

Now Jacob lived
The phrase "Now Jacob lived" signifies a period of settlement and stability for Jacob, also known as Israel. The Hebrew root for "lived" is "חָיָה" (chayah), which means to live, to have life, or to remain alive. This indicates not just physical survival but a period of thriving and fulfillment. Jacob's life in Egypt, despite being away from the Promised Land, was marked by a sense of peace and prosperity, reflecting God's provision and faithfulness to His covenant people.

in the land of Egypt
Egypt, in the biblical narrative, often represents a place of refuge and provision, as well as a place of testing and bondage. Historically, Egypt was a powerful and advanced civilization, providing a fertile environment for Jacob and his family during a time of famine. This phrase underscores God's sovereignty in using Egypt as a temporary haven for His people, foreshadowing the eventual Exodus and the fulfillment of His promises.

seventeen years
The specific mention of "seventeen years" highlights the completeness and sufficiency of God's provision for Jacob in his old age. The number seventeen in biblical numerology can symbolize overcoming the enemy and complete victory. These years in Egypt were a time of restoration for Jacob, allowing him to witness the growth and prosperity of his family, particularly through Joseph, whom he thought he had lost.

and the length of Jacob’s life
This phrase emphasizes the totality and fullness of Jacob's earthly journey. The Hebrew word for "length" is "יָמִים" (yamim), meaning days or years, indicating the measured and purposeful span of his life. Jacob's life, with all its trials and triumphs, reflects the overarching narrative of God's redemptive plan and His faithfulness to His promises.

was 147 years
The age of 147 years signifies a life that was long and full by ancient standards. In the context of the patriarchs, such longevity is a testament to God's blessing and favor. Jacob's lifespan, though shorter than his forefathers Abraham and Isaac, was marked by significant encounters with God and pivotal moments in the history of Israel. This number also serves as a reminder of the temporal nature of life and the eternal promises of God that transcend earthly existence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the Israelites, Jacob is the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. His life in Egypt marks a significant period where the Israelites begin their sojourn in a foreign land.

2. Egypt
The land where Jacob and his family settled during a time of famine. Egypt becomes a place of refuge and provision for Jacob's family, setting the stage for future events in Israelite history.

3. Seventeen Years
The period Jacob lived in Egypt before his death. This time represents a phase of peace and prosperity for Jacob and his family, despite being in a foreign land.

4. 147 Years
The total lifespan of Jacob, which reflects the fulfillment of God's promises to him and his ancestors regarding longevity and blessing.

Teaching Points

God's Faithfulness in Foreign Lands
Jacob's life in Egypt demonstrates God's faithfulness to His promises, even when His people are in foreign lands. Believers can trust that God is with them, regardless of their circumstances or location.

The Importance of Family Legacy
Jacob's time in Egypt was spent with his family, ensuring the continuation of God's covenant promises. Christians are encouraged to invest in their families, passing down faith and values to future generations.

Life's Seasons and God's Timing
The seventeen years Jacob spent in Egypt were a season of peace and fulfillment. Believers should recognize that life has different seasons, and God's timing is perfect in each one.

Longevity and Purpose
Jacob's 147 years reflect a life lived with purpose under God's guidance. Christians are reminded to seek God's purpose for their lives, regardless of their age or stage in life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's experience in Egypt reflect God's faithfulness to His promises, and how can this encourage us in our own "foreign lands" or challenging situations?

2. In what ways can we, like Jacob, ensure that our family legacy aligns with God's purposes and promises?

3. How can we discern and embrace the different seasons of life that God leads us through, as seen in Jacob's seventeen years in Egypt?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jacob's long life about living with purpose and faithfulness to God?

5. How does the account of Jacob in Egypt connect to the broader account of God's plan for Israel, and what implications does this have for understanding God's plan for our lives today?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 46:1-7
This passage describes Jacob's journey to Egypt, highlighting God's reassurance to Jacob about moving to a foreign land. It connects to Genesis 47:28 by showing the fulfillment of God's promise to be with Jacob in Egypt.

Hebrews 11:21
This verse in the New Testament references Jacob's faith, particularly at the end of his life, which ties back to his time in Egypt and his trust in God's promises.

Exodus 1:1-7
The beginning of Exodus recounts the growth of Jacob's family in Egypt, setting the stage for the eventual Exodus. This connection shows the continuation of God's plan for Israel, which began with Jacob's move to Egypt.