Jacob, also known as Israel, is a pivotal patriarch in the biblical narrative, whose life and legacy are foundational to the history of the Israelites. His final instructions and death are recorded in the Book of Genesis, chapters 49 and 50, and they hold significant theological and historical importance.

Final Instructions:

As Jacob approached the end of his life, he gathered his twelve sons to impart his final blessings and instructions. This event is a profound moment in biblical history, as Jacob's words are not merely paternal advice but prophetic declarations concerning the future of the tribes of Israel. Genesis 49:1-2 states, "Then Jacob called for his sons and said, 'Gather around so that I can tell you what will happen to you in the days to come. Assemble and listen, O sons of Jacob; listen to your father Israel.'"

Jacob's blessings are both individual and collective, addressing each son by name and foretelling the destiny of their descendants. For instance, Reuben, the firstborn, is reprimanded for his instability and loss of preeminence due to his transgression (Genesis 49:3-4). Simeon and Levi are admonished for their violence, with a prophecy of their dispersion in Israel (Genesis 49:5-7).

Judah receives a prominent blessing, with Jacob prophesying leadership and kingship emerging from his line, a foreshadowing of the Davidic dynasty and ultimately the Messiah (Genesis 49:8-12). Joseph, Jacob's favored son, is blessed with prosperity and strength, reflecting his role in preserving the family during famine (Genesis 49:22-26).

Jacob's instructions also include a request concerning his burial. He charges his sons to bury him in the cave of Machpelah, where Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, and Leah are interred (Genesis 49:29-32). This request underscores Jacob's desire to be united with his ancestors in the Promised Land, affirming his faith in God's covenant promises.

Death of Jacob:

After blessing his sons, Jacob's life comes to a peaceful conclusion. Genesis 49:33 records, "When Jacob had finished instructing his sons, he drew his feet into the bed, breathed his last, and was gathered to his people." This phrase, "gathered to his people," signifies not only physical death but also a spiritual reunion with his forebears, reflecting the hope of eternal life.

Jacob's death marks the end of an era but also the continuation of God's covenant through his descendants. His passing is mourned deeply by Joseph and his brothers, who fulfill his burial wishes with great reverence. Genesis 50:12-13 narrates, "So Jacob’s sons did as he had charged them. They carried him to the land of Canaan and buried him in the cave at Machpelah in the field near Mamre, which Abraham had purchased as a burial site from Ephron the Hittite."

The mourning period for Jacob is significant, with a grand procession that includes Egyptian dignitaries, highlighting Joseph's status in Egypt and the respect accorded to Jacob. This event also serves as a testament to the unity and reconciliation among Jacob's sons, who had previously been divided by jealousy and strife.

Jacob's final instructions and death are a testament to his enduring faith and the fulfillment of God's promises. His prophetic blessings set the stage for the unfolding history of the Israelites, and his burial in Canaan reaffirms the hope in God's covenantal faithfulness.