Genesis 50:25

And 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."

Study Bible

And Joseph made the sons of Israel take an oath
The act of making an oath in ancient times was a solemn and binding agreement, often invoking the name of God as a witness. The Hebrew word for "oath" is "שְׁבוּעָה" (shevu'ah), which signifies a promise that is not to be broken. Joseph, understanding the gravity of such a commitment, ensures that his brothers, representing the tribes of Israel, are bound to his request. This reflects Joseph's unwavering faith in God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the Promised Land. It also underscores the importance of legacy and continuity in the Hebrew tradition, where the patriarchs' faith and God's covenant are passed down through generations.

and said, 'When God comes to your aid
The phrase "when God comes to your aid" is a testament to Joseph's prophetic insight and faith in God's providence. The Hebrew verb "פָּקַד" (paqad) is used here, often translated as "visit" or "come to aid," indicating divine intervention or fulfillment of a promise. Joseph is confident that God will not abandon His people in Egypt but will eventually lead them to the land He promised. This reflects a deep trust in God's timing and faithfulness, serving as an encouragement to the Israelites to remain hopeful and steadfast in their faith, even in times of waiting or suffering.

you are to carry my bones up from this place
Joseph's request to have his bones carried to the Promised Land is rich with symbolic meaning. The Hebrew word for "bones" is "עֲצָמוֹת" (atzamot), which can also imply strength or essence. By asking for his bones to be moved, Joseph is expressing his desire to be part of the future fulfillment of God's promises, even after his death. This act is a powerful declaration of faith in the resurrection and the eternal nature of God's covenant. It also serves as a tangible reminder to the Israelites of their ultimate destination and God's unwavering promise to bring them to a land flowing with milk and honey. Joseph's faith and foresight inspire believers to live with an eternal perspective, trusting in God's promises beyond the present circumstances.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The eleventh son of Jacob, who rose to prominence in Egypt. He is a key figure in the account of Genesis, known for his faithfulness to God and his role in saving his family during a famine.

2. Sons of Israel
Refers to the descendants of Jacob (Israel), who would later become the twelve tribes of Israel. They are the recipients of Joseph's instructions regarding his bones.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph rose to power and where the Israelites lived for several generations. It represents both a place of refuge and eventual bondage for the Israelites.

4. Oath
A solemn promise made by the sons of Israel to Joseph, signifying the importance of fulfilling his last wishes and the faith in God's future deliverance.

5. God's Aid
Refers to the anticipated divine intervention that would lead the Israelites out of Egypt, foreshadowing the Exodus.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Joseph's request demonstrates his unwavering faith in God's promise to deliver Israel from Egypt. Believers are encouraged to trust in God's promises, even when fulfillment seems distant.

Legacy of Faith
Joseph's instructions about his bones serve as a testament to his faith and a reminder to future generations of God's covenant. Our actions and words can leave a lasting impact on those who come after us.

The Importance of Oaths
The seriousness with which the sons of Israel took Joseph's oath underscores the importance of keeping our promises, especially those made before God.

Hope in Future Deliverance
Joseph's anticipation of God's aid points to a hope that transcends present circumstances. Believers can find encouragement in the hope of God's ultimate deliverance.

Connection to the Land
Joseph's desire to be buried in the Promised Land reflects the significance of God's promises regarding the land. It reminds believers of the spiritual inheritance promised to them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's request to have his bones carried to the Promised Land reflect his faith in God's promises?

2. In what ways can we demonstrate faith in God's promises in our own lives, even when fulfillment seems far off?

3. How does the fulfillment of Joseph's request in Exodus 13:19 and Joshua 24:32 encourage us about God's faithfulness?

4. What are some ways we can ensure that our legacy points others to faith in God, as Joseph's did?

5. How can the concept of hope in future deliverance, as seen in Joseph's anticipation of God's aid, be applied to our current life situations?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 13:19
This verse describes the fulfillment of Joseph's request when Moses takes Joseph's bones out of Egypt during the Exodus, demonstrating the faithfulness of the Israelites to Joseph's oath.

Hebrews 11:22
This verse highlights Joseph's faith, as he spoke of the Exodus of the Israelites and gave instructions concerning his bones, showing his belief in God's promises.

Joshua 24:32
This verse records the final burial of Joseph's bones in Shechem, fulfilling the oath made by the sons of Israel and connecting to the land promised to Abraham.