Introduction

Travel throughout Egypt holds significant historical and theological importance within the biblical narrative. Egypt, a land of ancient civilization and a pivotal location in biblical history, is frequently mentioned in the Scriptures. It served as a place of refuge, a land of bondage, and a backdrop for divine intervention. This entry explores the various aspects of travel throughout Egypt as depicted in the Bible, highlighting key events, figures, and theological themes.

Egypt as a Place of Refuge

Egypt is first introduced in the Bible as a place of refuge during times of famine. In Genesis 12:10, Abram (later Abraham) travels to Egypt to escape a severe famine in Canaan: "Now there was a famine in the land, and Abram went down to Egypt to live there for a while, because the famine was severe." This journey marks the beginning of a recurring theme where Egypt serves as a temporary sanctuary for God's people.

Another significant instance of Egypt as a refuge is found in the account of Joseph. Sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph eventually rises to power in Egypt, becoming second only to Pharaoh. During a subsequent famine, Joseph's family travels to Egypt for sustenance, leading to their eventual settlement in the land (Genesis 46:1-7).

Egypt as a Land of Bondage

While Egypt initially serves as a refuge, it later becomes synonymous with bondage and oppression. The Israelites' enslavement in Egypt is a central narrative in the Old Testament. Exodus 1:13-14 describes their harsh treatment: "They worked the Israelites ruthlessly and made their lives bitter with hard labor in brick and mortar and with all kinds of work in the fields; in all their hard labor the Egyptians used them