1 So Israel took his journey with all that he had and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.
2 And God spoke to Israel in visions of the night and said, “Jacob, Jacob.” And he said, “Here I am.”
3 Then he said, “I am God, the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for there I will make you into a great nation.
4 I myself will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you up again, and Joseph’s hand shall close your eyes.”
5 Then Jacob set out from Beersheba. The sons of Israel carried Jacob their father, their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons that Pharaoh had sent to carry him.
6 They also took their livestock and their goods, which they had gained in the land of Canaan, and came into Egypt, Jacob and all his offspring with him,
7 his sons and his sons’ sons with him, his daughters, and his sons’ daughters. All his offspring he brought with him to Egypt.
8 Now these are the names of the descendants of Israel, who came into Egypt, Jacob and his sons. Reuben, Jacob’s firstborn.
9 The sons of Reuben: Hanoch, Pallu, Hezron, and Carmi.
10 The sons of Simeon: Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Jachin, Zohar, and Shaul, the son of a Canaanite woman.
11 And the sons of Levi: Gershon, Kohath, and Merari.
12 The sons of Judah: Er, Onan, Shelah, Perez, and Zerah (but Er and Onan died in the land of Canaan); and the sons of Perez were Hezron and Hamul.
13 The sons of Issachar: Tola, Puvah, Yob, and Shimron.
14 The sons of Zebulun: Sered, Elon, and Jahleel.
15 These are the sons of Leah, whom she bore to Jacob in Paddan-aram, together with his daughter Dinah; altogether his sons and his daughters numbered thirty-three.
16 The sons of Gad: Ziphion, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli.
17 The sons of Asher: Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, with Serah their sister.
18 The sons of Zebulun: Sered, Elon, and Jahleel.
19 The sons of Rachel, Jacob’s wife: Joseph and Benjamin.
20 To Joseph in the land of Egypt were born Manasseh and Ephraim, whom Asenath, the daughter of Potiphera the priest of On, bore to him.
21 The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Becher, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim, and Ard.
22 The sons of Rachel: Joseph and Benjamin.
23 And the sons of Dan: Hushim.
24 The sons of Naphtali: Jahzeel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem.
25 These are the sons of Bilhah, whom Laban gave to Rachel his daughter, and these she bore to Jacob—seven persons in all.
26 All the persons belonging to Jacob who came into Egypt, who were his own descendants, not including Jacob’s sons’ wives, were sixty-six persons in all.
27 And the sons of Joseph, who were born to him in Egypt, were two. All the persons of the house of Jacob who came into Egypt were seventy.
28 He had sent Judah ahead of him to Joseph to show the way before him in Goshen, and they came into the land of Goshen.
29 Then Joseph prepared his chariot and went up to meet Israel his father in Goshen. He presented himself to him and fell on his neck and wept on his neck a good while.
30 And Israel said to Joseph, “Now let me die, since I have seen your face and know that you are still alive.”
31 Then Joseph said to his brothers and to his father’s household, “I will go up and tell Pharaoh and will say to him, ‘My brothers and my father’s household, who were in the land of Canaan, have come to me.
32 and the men are shepherds, for they have been keepers of livestock, and they have brought their flocks and their herds and all that they have.’
33 When Pharaoh calls you and says, ‘What is your occupation?’
34 you shall say, ‘Your servants have been keepers of livestock from our youth even until now, both we and our fathers,’ in order that you may dwell in the land of Goshen, for every shepherd is an abomination to the Egyptians.”
The True Meaning of Genesis 46
The Book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible, was written by Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. Jacob and his family relocate to Egypt in this chapter, fulfilling the divine plan that was set in motion earlier in the book.
This chapter marks a significant turning point in the lives of the Israelites, as they transition from the land of Canaan to the land of Egypt, where they will eventually grow into a mighty nation. The events described here foreshadow the Israelites’ future captivity and eventual exodus, as foretold in the book of Exodus. God’s providence guides the Israelites as we delve into this chapter, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. The chapter also highlights the importance of family unity and the preservation of the chosen lineage, as Jacob and his descendants make their way to Egypt to be reunited with Joseph, who had been sold into slavery years earlier.
Genesis 46:1-4
Jacob (also known as Israel) sets out on a pivotal journey to Egypt with his entire family in Genesis 46:1-4. The verse reads: “So Israel set out with all that was his, and when he reached Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. And God spoke to Israel in a vision at night and said, ‘Jacob! Jacob!’ ‘Here I am,’ he replied. ‘I am God, the God of your father,’ he said. ‘Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there.’”
The significance of Jacob stopping at Beersheba to offer sacrifices before proceeding to Egypt cannot be overstated. Beersheba was a significant place in Jacob’s family history, as it was the place where his father Isaac had settled and where God had appeared to Isaac. Jacob is reaffirming his faith and seeking God’s guidance and blessings for his journey by stopping at this holy site.
God’s reassurance to Jacob in the vision is a powerful reminder of His faithfulness and promises to His people. Despite the uncertainty and challenges of relocating to a foreign land like Egypt, God promises to make Jacob into a great nation there. This reassurance not only strengthens Jacob’s resolve but also foreshadows the fulfillment of God’s covenant with Abraham, promising him numerous descendants who would inherit the land.
This passage also continues the theme of God’s providence and guidance throughout the history of His chosen people. Just as God had led Abraham out of Ur, Isaac through various trials, and Jacob back to the land of his father, He continues to lead and direct Jacob’s journey to Egypt. This demonstrates God’s sovereignty over the lives of His people and His commitment to fulfilling His promises to them. This journey to Egypt in the broader context of the Bible sets the stage for the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham regarding the multiplication of his descendants and their eventual possession of the Promised Land. It also sets the scene for the unfolding of the Israelites’ enslavement in Egypt and their eventual deliverance through the leadership of Moses, leading them to the exodus and ultimately to the conquest of Canaan. This passage in Genesis 46:1-4 serves as a pivotal moment in the narrative of God’s people, highlighting the importance of faith, obedience, and God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. It underscores the theme of divine guidance and providence, showing how God works in the lives of His chosen ones to accomplish His purposes.
Genesis 46:5-7
Jacob, also known as Israel, is preparing to journey to Egypt with his entire family in a pivotal moment in Genesis 46:5-7. This passage is significant because it marks the relocation of the family of Israel to Egypt, setting the stage for the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham regarding the nation’s growth and eventual deliverance. Jacob set out from Beersheba in verse 5. The sons of Israel carried Jacob their father, their little ones, and their wives, in the wagons that Pharaoh had sent to carry him.” This moment symbolizes the care and provision that God extended to Jacob and his family even in the midst of uncertainty and change. The fact that Pharaoh’s wagons were used to transport Jacob’s family illustrates God’s orchestration of events to ensure the safety and well-being of His chosen people. The list of Jacob’s offspring who accompanied him to Egypt is encountered in verse 6. It mentions his sons and grandsons, highlighting the continuation of the lineage that God had promised to multiply. The inclusion of these specific names serves as a reminder of the unfolding of God’s covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Each name represents not only an individual but also a significant part of the nation of Israel’s history and future.
Verse 7 emphasizes that there were 70 persons in total who went down to Egypt with Jacob. This number is symbolic and carries spiritual significance. The number 70 in the Bible often represents completeness or fullness, reflecting the completeness of God’s plan for the nation of Israel. This count serves as a reminder that every individual in this family group played a vital role in God’s overarching plan for His people.
The journey to Egypt mentioned in these verses foreshadows the Israelites’ time of sojourning and eventual enslavement in Egypt before their deliverance through Moses. This period in Egypt would be a crucial part of Israel’s history, shaping them as a people and preparing them for the Exodus, where God would demonstrate His mighty power in freeing them from bondage. God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises, guiding His people through various circumstances, and orchestrating events according to His plan are reminded to us as we examine these verses. The mention of Jacob’s family members and the significance of their journey to Egypt serve as a testament to God’s overarching redemptive plan throughout the Bible. This passage sets the stage for the unfolding story of Israel’s time in Egypt and ultimately their exodus to the Promised Land, showcasing God’s faithfulness and provision throughout generations.
Genesis 46:8-15
The focus in Genesis 46:8-15 shifts to the descendants of Judah who went down to Egypt with Jacob. Let’s break down this passage to better understand its significance in the broader context of the Bible.
Starting with verse 8, we see the names of Judah’s sons listed: Er, Onan, Shelah, Perez, and Zerah. Judah plays a significant role in the biblical narrative, notably as one of Jacob’s sons who, along with his brothers, sold Joseph into slavery. Despite his past mistakes, Judah experiences a transformation in character throughout the story. His willingness to take responsibility and demonstrate loyalty to his father and brother Benjamin in Egypt reveals a changed heart. The lineage of Judah is crucial as it contributes to the genealogy of Jesus Christ, who in the New Testament is described as the Lion of the tribe of Judah (Revelation 5:5).
The mention of Perez and Zerah in verse 12 is particularly noteworthy. Perez, whose name means “breaking forth,” had a fascinating birth story. He was one of the twins born to Tamar after she disguised herself to conceive by Judah (Genesis 38). This story showcases themes of deception, justice, and ultimately redemption. Perez later becomes part of the Messianic line, illustrating God’s ability to work through imperfect individuals and situations to bring about His divine plan. The descendants of Issachar are introduced as we continue to verse 13. Issachar was another of Jacob’s sons, born to Leah. His descendants are crucial as they contribute to the twelve tribes of Israel, each fulfilling a unique role in the overarching plan of God. Issachar’s tribe, known for their wisdom in understanding the times (1 Chronicles 12:32), exemplifies the importance of discernment and seeking God’s guidance for His people.
Moving on to verse 14, we encounter the sons of Zebulun, another of Jacob’s sons. Zebulun’s descendants would prove to be instrumental in the settlement of the Promised Land, contributing to the territorial distribution among the tribes of Israel. This distribution aligns with God’s covenant with Abraham to give his descendants the land of Canaan as their inheritance (Genesis 15:18-21). This passage not only serves as a record of the genealogies of Jacob’s descendants but also reinforces several key themes prevalent throughout the Bible. It highlights the importance of lineage in God’s redemptive plan, the transformative power of God in individuals’ lives, and the fulfillment of prophecies through generations. Furthermore, it emphasizes the unity and diversity among God’s chosen people, showcasing how each tribe had a specific role to play in furthering God’s kingdom on earth.
Genesis 46:16-18
Ziphion, Haggi, Shuni, Ezbon, Eri, Arodi, and Areli were the sons of Gad as mentioned in Genesis 46:16-18. The sons of Asher were Imnah, Ishvah, Ishvi, Beriah, and their sister Serah. The sons of Beriah were Heber and Malchiel.” This section lists the descendants of Gad, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, and the descendants of Asher, another of Jacob’s sons.
Gad was the seventh son of Jacob and the founder of one of the twelve tribes of Israel. His descendants mentioned here played a significant role in the history of the Israelites. The tribe of Gad settled in the eastern part of the Promised Land, an area known for its pasturelands. They were known for their valor in battle and for their commitment to their families.
Asher, another of Jacob’s sons, is also mentioned in this passage. The descendants of Asher, particularly the sons listed here, went on to become important figures in the history of Israel. They, like the other tribes, played a role in the conquest and settlement of the Promised Land. The tribe of Asher settled in the northern part of Israel, an area known for its fertility and resources.
This passage is important in highlighting the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham to make his descendants into a great nation. The mention of these specific individuals serves as a reminder of the continuity of God’s plan throughout generations. It also emphasizes the importance of family lineage and heritage in the Bible.
The genealogies found throughout the Bible not only serve to trace the lineage of important figures but also to emphasize the importance of identity and heritage in God’s plan. They remind us of the interconnectedness of generations and the faithfulness of God in keeping His promises to His people. These genealogies also point to the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise through the lineage of Jesus Christ. The genealogy of Jesus is traced back through David to Abraham in Matthew 1:1-17, highlighting Jesus as the long-awaited Messiah who would come from the line of the patriarchs. This connection underscores the significance of these genealogies in showcasing the unfolding of God’s redemptive plan throughout history.
Genesis 46:19-22
Genesis 46:19-22 mentions four of Jacob’s sons along with their descendants. The verse reads, “The sons of Rachel, Jacob’s wife: Joseph and Benjamin. Joseph and Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, gave birth to Manasseh and Ephraim in Egypt. The sons of Benjamin: Bela, Beker, Ashbel, Gera, Naaman, Ehi, Rosh, Muppim, Huppim and Ard. These were the sons of Rachel who were born to Jacob; in all, fourteen people.”
This portion of the verse focuses on the legacy of Rachel, Jacob’s beloved wife. Rachel’s sons, Joseph and Benjamin, were born to Jacob in his old age after years of barrenness. Joseph is well-known for his incredible story of being sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, rising to power in Egypt, and eventually saving his family during a severe famine. His forgiveness towards his brothers and the reconciliation that followed is a powerful testament to the importance of forgiveness and family unity in the Bible.
The mention of Manasseh and Ephraim highlights the next generation of Rachel’s descendants, born to Joseph in Egypt. These two sons were adopted by Jacob as his own, receiving the same blessings as Jacob’s other sons in the future (Genesis 48:5). This act symbolizes the importance of adoption and blended families in biblical narratives, showing that God’s love and blessings are not limited by bloodlines.
The lineage of Benjamin is also outlined, listing his ten sons. Through these descendants, we see the continuation of the promise given to Jacob by God to make his offspring into a great nation. The naming of each son represents a piece of Benjamin’s legacy within the larger story of Israel’s formation and growth as a people chosen by God. This verse underscores the theme of family ties and the continuation of God’s promises through the generations. It reminds readers of the intricate way in which God weaves together the lives of individuals and families to fulfill His divine plan. Each name mentioned carries significance in the grand tapestry of God’s redemptive work, emphasizing the importance of every individual in God’s overarching narrative of salvation and restoration.
Genesis 46:23-25
The verses in Genesis 46:23-25 read, “And the sons of Dan: Hushim.” And the sons of Naphtali: Jahzeel, and Guni, and Jezer, and Shillem. These are the sons of Bilhah, whom Laban gave to Rachel his daughter, and she bore these to Jacob; all the souls were seven. Jacob’s descendants who came with him to Egypt continue to be listed in this passage. Dan and Naphtali were two of Jacob’s sons, born to him through Bilhah, Rachel’s maidservant. The mentioning of the names of Dan’s son, Hushim, and Naphtali’s sons, Jahzeel, Guni, Jezer, and Shillem, signifies the continuity of the family line and the fulfillment of God’s promise to make Abraham’s descendants into a great nation.
The descendants listed here are significant in the broader context of the Bible as they play a role in the formation of the twelve tribes of Israel. Dan’s tribe, for example, is known for their part in the division of the Promised Land after the Israelites’ exodus from Egypt. They received a portion of land in the territory of Canaan as their inheritance (Joshua 19:40-48). Naphtali’s tribe also received their allotted portion in the Promised Land, and they were known for their warriors, as seen in Deborah’s song in Judges 5.
These verses remind us of the importance of genealogy and lineage in the Bible. The preservation of family lines was crucial for the fulfillment of God’s promises and the establishment of His chosen people. It also highlights the faithfulness of God in keeping His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, despite the challenges and tribulations their descendants faced along the way. The mention of the specific names of sons and their descendants not only serves as a historical record but also emphasizes the continuity of God’s plan throughout generations. The intricate tapestry of God’s plan unfolding through the generations ultimately leads to the fulfillment of His promises through Jesus Christ as we reflect on these verses. Just as God remained faithful to the patriarchs and their descendants, we can trust in His faithfulness in our own lives, knowing that He is sovereign over all generations and works all things together for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
Genesis 46:26-27
Sixty-six persons in all went to Egypt with Jacob, not counting his sons’ wives, and they were his own descendants. With the two sons who had been born to Joseph in Egypt, the members of Jacob’s family, which went to Egypt, were seventy in all. The reference to the number of Jacob’s descendants who went to Egypt with him is seen in these two verses. The text specifies that those who descended from Jacob, excluding his sons’ wives, numbered sixty-six. This number is significant, as it represents the beginning of the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars in the sky (Genesis 15:5).
The mention of the two sons born to Joseph in Egypt is also notable. Ephraim and Manasseh, born to Joseph and his wife Asenath in Egypt, were considered as part of Jacob’s descendants. This shows how God’s plan for the multiplication of Abraham’s descendants continued through the generations, even as they faced trials and challenges, such as the family’s move to Egypt due to the famine.
Furthermore, the total count of Jacob’s family members who went to Egypt is given as seventy. This number has symbolic significance in the Bible, representing completeness or wholeness. Seventy is often seen as a number connected with restoration and redemption. For example, in the New Testament, Jesus appointed seventy disciples to go out and spread the Gospel (Luke 10:1). This number reinforces the idea that God’s plan was unfolding perfectly, even in the midst of uncertainty and displacement. God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, despite the challenges their descendants faced, is demonstrated in these verses from Genesis 46. The meticulous recording of the number of Jacob’s family members going to Egypt highlights God’s sovereignty and how every detail in His plan was being orchestrated. It also serves as a reminder that God’s plans for His people are always carried out, even if they may not unfold in the way we expect or understand.
Genesis 46:28-30
The passage in Genesis 46:28-30 describes the arrival of Jacob, along with his family, in Egypt. This section holds significance as it sets the stage for the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would become a great nation. Jacob sent Judah ahead to Joseph to guide them to the land of Goshen in the first verse. Judah, one of Jacob’s sons, played a crucial role in the family’s journey to Egypt and in Joseph’s story. Judah’s character arc is compelling throughout the Bible, as he goes from being involved in the selling of Joseph into slavery to later demonstrating profound humility and leadership, particularly in the story of his intervention on behalf of his brother Benjamin (Genesis 44).
The reunion of Jacob and Joseph in Egypt is a powerful moment of reconciliation and restoration. Joseph, who had been betrayed and sold into slavery by his brothers, now has the opportunity to not only forgive them but also to provide for them during a time of famine. This shows the mercy and grace of God in bringing about reconciliation and redemption even in the midst of severe trials and hardships. It also highlights the importance of forgiveness and family unity, themes that are prevalent throughout the Bible. The fulfillment of God’s promise to Jacob that He would be with him and his descendants and bring them back to the land of Canaan is portrayed as Jacob and Joseph are reunited in Goshen (Genesis 28:15). This reinforces the idea that God is faithful to His promises and that He is always working behind the scenes to accomplish His plans, even when circumstances seem dire. This passage in Genesis 46:28-30 underscores the themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, divine providence, and the faithfulness of God in fulfilling His promises. It serves as a reminder to readers that no matter the hardships or trials they may face, God is always in control and working for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
Genesis 46:31-34
Jacob and his family settle in the land of Egypt in a pivotal moment in the story, as seen in Genesis 46:31-34. The verse reads, “Joseph said to his brothers and to his father’s household, ‘I will go up and speak to Pharaoh and will say to him, “My brothers and my father’s household, who were living in the land of Canaan, have come to me. The men are shepherds; they tend livestock, and they have brought along their flocks and herds and everything they own.” When Pharaoh calls you in and asks, “What is your occupation?” you should answer, “Your servants have tended livestock from our boyhood on, just as our fathers did.” Then you will be allowed to settle in the region of Goshen, for all shepherds are detestable to the Egyptians.’”
Joseph’s instructions to his family reveal his wisdom and understanding of the political and cultural dynamics of Egypt. Joseph is ensuring his family’s safety and prosperity in a foreign land by advising them on what to say when they meet Pharaoh. It is important to note that Joseph’s family are shepherds, a profession that was considered detestable to the Egyptians. This information becomes significant later in the story when the Israelites face discrimination and enslavement in Egypt due to their occupation as shepherds.
This verse highlights the importance of using wisdom and discernment in navigating unfamiliar territories. Joseph’s foresight in preparing his family for their meeting with Pharaoh shows his care and concern for their well-being. It also emphasizes the theme of God’s providence throughout the Bible. Despite the challenges and struggles faced by Jacob’s family, God’s plan is at work, ultimately leading to the fulfillment of the covenant made with Abraham.
The mention of settling in the region of Goshen is notable as it becomes the land where the Israelites thrive and multiply during their time in Egypt. This sets the stage for the Israelites’ eventual enslavement and the fulfillment of God’s promise to deliver them from bondage. The journey of Jacob and his family to Egypt marks a significant turning point in the narrative of the Bible, as it sets the stage for the events that will follow in the book of Exodus. Genesis 46:31-34 serves as a reminder of God’s faithfulness and provision, even in times of uncertainty and displacement. It underscores the importance of trusting in God’s plan and seeking His wisdom in all circumstances. Joseph’s actions in this verse demonstrate the concept of being shrewd as serpents and innocent as doves, as advised by Jesus in Matthew 10:16. This verse from Genesis showcases the intricate weaving of God’s plan through the lives of His people, setting the stage for future events that will ultimately lead to the redemption and liberation of the Israelites.
After Genesis 46
The patriarch Jacob and his entire household journeyed to Egypt, as the Lord had commanded. They arrived safely and were reunited with Joseph, who had become a powerful ruler in the land. Jacob blessed Pharaoh and was granted land to settle his family. Jacob gathered his sons as his life drew to a close and made them promise to bury him in the land of his fathers. He spoke prophetic words over each of his sons, foretelling their future destinies. With that, the old patriarch breathed his last, his long life of trials and triumphs finally at an end.
Yet the story does not end there. For as Jacob’s body was carried back to Canaan, a new chapter was about to unfold – one that would test the faith and unity of his descendants in the years to come.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.