Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob and the firstborn of Rachel, is a central figure in the latter chapters of Genesis. His life, marked by divine providence and personal integrity, culminates in his final years and death, which are recorded in Genesis 47:28-50:26.

Final Years in Egypt

After being reunited with his family during a severe famine, Joseph settled his father Jacob and his brothers in the land of Goshen, a fertile region in Egypt. Genesis 47:28 notes, "Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years, and the length of his life was 147 years." During this time, Joseph continued to serve as the second-in-command to Pharaoh, overseeing the distribution of grain and managing the affairs of Egypt with wisdom and discernment.

Joseph's leadership during the famine not only saved Egypt but also preserved the nascent nation of Israel. His actions were instrumental in fulfilling God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be numerous and blessed (Genesis 12:2-3).

Jacob's Blessing and Prophecy

As Jacob's life drew to a close, he called his sons together to bless them and prophesy over their futures. In Genesis 49, Jacob bestowed a special blessing upon Joseph, acknowledging his trials and triumphs: "Joseph is a fruitful vine, a fruitful vine by a spring, whose branches climb over the wall" (Genesis 49:22). Jacob recognized Joseph's steadfast faith and resilience, attributing his success to the Almighty's hand upon him.

Joseph's Promise to Jacob

Before Jacob's death, he made Joseph swear to bury him in the cave of Machpelah in Canaan, where Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, and Leah were buried (Genesis 49:29-32). Joseph honored this request, demonstrating his continued respect and love for his father and his commitment to the covenantal promises of God.

Joseph's Death

Joseph lived to be 110 years old, witnessing the growth and prosperity of his family in Egypt. Before his death, he reassured his brothers of his forgiveness and God's providential plan, saying, "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" (Genesis 50:20).

Joseph made his brothers swear an oath to carry his bones out of Egypt when God would lead them to the Promised Land, affirming his faith in God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 50:24-25). His request was fulfilled centuries later during the Exodus, as recorded in Exodus 13:19.

Joseph's death marked the end of an era for the Israelites in Egypt. He was embalmed and placed in a coffin, a testament to his high status in Egyptian society and his enduring legacy among the Israelites (Genesis 50:26). His life and death exemplify a profound trust in God's sovereignty and a steadfast commitment to His covenant.