Genesis 50:12

So Jacob's sons did as he had charged them.

Study Bible

So his sons
This phrase refers to the sons of Jacob, also known as Israel. The sons of Jacob are the patriarchs of the twelve tribes of Israel, and their actions here are significant in fulfilling the last wishes of their father. The Hebrew word for "sons" is "בָּנִים" (banim), which not only denotes biological offspring but also carries the connotation of building or establishing a legacy. In this context, the sons are not just fulfilling a duty but are participating in the continuation of the covenantal promise given to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

did
The Hebrew verb used here is "וַיַּעֲשׂוּ" (vaya'asu), which means "to do" or "to make." This word implies action and obedience. The sons' actions are a direct response to their father's command, demonstrating their respect and reverence for him. In a broader theological sense, this obedience can be seen as a model for how the people of God are to respond to divine commandments—promptly and faithfully.

as he had commanded them
The phrase underscores the importance of following the instructions given by Jacob. The Hebrew root for "commanded" is "צָוָה" (tzavah), which means to charge or to give orders. This word is often used in the context of divine commandments, indicating that Jacob's instructions carried significant weight and authority. Historically, this reflects the patriarchal society where the father's word was law within the family. Scripturally, it highlights the importance of honoring one's parents, a theme that is echoed in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:12). Jacob's command was not merely a personal wish but was tied to the fulfillment of God's promises to him and his ancestors. The sons' compliance is a testament to their faithfulness and the continuity of God's covenantal plan through the generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the Israelite tribes, Jacob is the father of the twelve sons who become the leaders of the twelve tribes of Israel. His death and burial are significant events in Genesis 50.

2. Jacob’s Sons
The twelve sons of Jacob, who are responsible for carrying out their father's final wishes. They are the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel.

3. Canaan
The land where Jacob wished to be buried, specifically in the cave of the field of Machpelah, which he had purchased as a burial site.

4. Egypt
The place where Jacob and his family resided during the latter part of his life due to the famine, and where Joseph held a position of power.

5. Joseph
Jacob's eleventh son, who played a crucial role in the survival of his family during the famine and ensured his father's burial wishes were fulfilled.

Teaching Points

Obedience to Parental Wishes
The sons of Jacob demonstrate respect and obedience to their father's wishes, highlighting the importance of honoring one's parents as commanded in the Ten Commandments.

Faithfulness to Promises
The fulfillment of Jacob's burial request is a testament to the faithfulness of his sons, which can inspire believers to be faithful in keeping their promises.

Connection to Heritage
Jacob's desire to be buried in Canaan underscores the importance of understanding and valuing one's spiritual heritage and God's promises.

Unity in Family Responsibilities
The collective action of Jacob's sons in fulfilling his burial request shows the strength and importance of family unity in carrying out responsibilities.

Hope in God's Promises
The burial in Canaan serves as a reminder of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, encouraging believers to hold onto God's promises in their own lives.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the obedience of Jacob's sons to his burial instructions reflect the biblical command to honor one's parents, and how can we apply this in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the burial of Jacob in Canaan connect to God's promises to the patriarchs, and how does this encourage us to trust in God's promises today?

3. How can the unity of Jacob's sons in fulfilling their father's wishes serve as a model for family unity in our own responsibilities and commitments?

4. What does Jacob's desire to be buried in Canaan teach us about the importance of spiritual heritage, and how can we ensure we are passing this on to future generations?

5. How does the faithfulness of Jacob's sons in carrying out his wishes inspire us to be faithful in our own commitments and promises to others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 49:29-32
Jacob's instructions to his sons about his burial in the cave of Machpelah, which they fulfill in Genesis 50:12.

Exodus 13:19
Joseph's later instructions regarding his own bones, showing a continued respect for burial wishes and the connection to the Promised Land.

Hebrews 11:22
Joseph's faith in God's promises, which is reflected in his actions and the actions of his brothers in fulfilling Jacob's burial request.