Genesis Chapter 50

The Explained Book of Genesis Chapter 50 by Anietie Hanson

 Study Bible: Genesis Chapter 50 – Jacob’s Burial and Joseph’s Legacy

Introduction

Genesis Chapter 50 concludes the book of Genesis, tying together the patriarchal narratives and emphasizing themes such as faith, forgiveness, and God’s providence. The chapter begins with Jacob’s burial, marking the end of an era, and transitions to Joseph’s reassurance of his brothers’ concerns about vengeance. This final chapter reflects how God’s plan unfolds through human events, leading into the subsequent narrative of Israel's growth in Egypt, setting the stage for the book of Exodus.

With 26 verses, this chapter provides a fitting conclusion to Genesis, demonstrating God’s faithfulness to His covenant promises and the legacy of Jacob and Joseph.

Verse-by-Verse Explanation

Genesis 50:1

"Joseph fell on his father’s face, wept on him, and kissed him."

Explanation: Joseph’s deep sorrow at Jacob’s death—“wept on him, and kissed him”—reflects the profound bond between father and son. This act of mourning symbolizes both personal grief and the transition of leadership within the family. The act of weeping demonstrates the humanity of even great leaders like Joseph. Ecclesiastes 3:4 captures this sentiment: "A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance." This verse highlights the emotional depth of Joseph’s character.

Genesis 50:2–3

"Joseph commanded his servants, the physicians, to embalm his father; and the physicians embalmed Israel. Forty days were fulfilled for him, for that is how many the days it takes to embalm. The Egyptians wept for him seventy days."

Explanation: The embalming of Jacob reflects Egyptian customs, showcasing Joseph’s integration into Egyptian society while honoring his father’s heritage. The forty days for embalming and seventy days of mourning signify profound respect and importance, extending beyond familial grief to national recognition. The duration mirrors a royal mourning period, elevating Jacob’s status. This aligns with Proverbs 10:7: "The memory of the righteous is blessed." Jacob’s legacy transcends his life, impacting both his family and Egypt.

Genesis 50:4–5

"When the days of weeping for him were past, Joseph spoke to Pharaoh’s household, saying, 'If now I have found favor in your eyes, please speak in the ears of Pharaoh, saying, "My father made me swear, saying, ‘Behold, I am dying. Bury me in my grave which I have dug for myself in the land of Canaan.’ Now therefore, please let me go up and bury my father, and I will come again."'"

Explanation: Joseph’s request to bury Jacob in Canaan demonstrates his faithfulness to his father’s wishes and their covenantal connection to the promised land. By approaching Pharaoh’s household instead of Pharaoh directly, Joseph shows humility and respect for protocol. The focus on Canaan reinforces God’s promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob regarding the land as an eternal possession (Genesis 17:8). Hebrews 11:16 reflects this longing: "They desired a better country, that is, a heavenly one." This burial request underscores the importance of spiritual heritage.

Genesis 50:6

"Pharaoh said, 'Go up, and bury your father, just like he made you swear.'"

Explanation: Pharaoh’s approval reflects his trust and respect for Joseph, further emphasizing the favor Joseph had earned in Egypt. This act of support highlights how God worked through Joseph to preserve his family and fulfill divine purposes. Proverbs 21:1 aligns with this: "The king’s heart is in the Lord’s hand. He directs it wherever he pleases." Pharaoh’s consent demonstrates God’s sovereignty in orchestrating events for His people.

Genesis 50:7–9

"Joseph went up to bury his father; and with him went up all the servants of Pharaoh, the elders of his house, all the elders of the land of Egypt, all the house of Joseph, his brothers, and his father’s house. Only their little ones, their flocks, and their herds, they left in the land of Goshen. Both chariots and horsemen went up with him. It was a very great company."

Explanation: The large entourage—“a very great company”—accompanying Jacob’s burial underscores the impact of his life and Joseph’s prominence in Egypt. This procession signifies honor and respect, blending Egyptian grandeur with covenantal faith. The chariots and horsemen symbolize protection and status, highlighting God’s provision and fulfillment of promises. Psalm 91:11 reflects this divine care: "For He will put His angels in charge of you, to guard you in all your ways." This burial journey reinforces the blending of earthly power with divine purpose.

Genesis 50:10–11

"They came to the threshing floor of Atad, which is beyond the Jordan, and they mourned there with a great and very severe lamentation. He mourned for his father seven days. When the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, saw the mourning in the floor of Atad, they said, 'This is a grievous mourning by the Egyptians.' Therefore its name was called Abel Mizraim, which is beyond the Jordan."

Explanation: The threshing floor of Atad serves as a significant location for mourning, symbolizing both transition and separation. The seven days of mourning align with cultural traditions and reflect deep grief and respect for Jacob’s life. The reaction of the Canaanites—“a grievous mourning by the Egyptians”—underscores the impact of Jacob’s death on both Israel and Egypt, highlighting the blending of cultures through Joseph’s leadership. Ecclesiastes 7:2 complements this moment: "It is better to go to the house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting." This passage emphasizes the significance of mourning as a solemn yet transformative act.

Genesis 50:12–14

"His sons did to him just as he commanded them, for his sons carried him into the land of Canaan, and buried him in the cave of the field of Machpelah, which Abraham bought with the field, as a burial place, from Ephron the Hittite, before Mamre. Joseph returned to Egypt—he, and his brothers, and all that went up with him to bury his father, after he had buried his father."

Explanation: The fulfillment of Jacob’s request to be buried in Machpelah connects his death to the covenant promise of the land of Canaan as an inheritance for his descendants. The cave of Machpelah, also the burial site of Abraham and Isaac, represents continuity and faithfulness to God’s promises. Hebrews 11:13 affirms this perspective: "These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them and embraced them from afar." The return to Egypt highlights the temporary nature of their dwelling in a foreign land, anticipating the future exodus.

Genesis 50:15

"When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, 'It may be that Joseph will hate us, and will fully repay us for all the evil which we did to him.'"

Explanation: The brothers’ fear—“It may be that Joseph will hate us”—reflects their guilt and insecurity regarding their past actions toward Joseph. Jacob’s death removes their perceived buffer, leading them to question Joseph’s forgiveness. This tension echoes the human tendency to doubt grace and reconciliation. Proverbs 28:13 addresses this dilemma: "He who conceals his sins doesn’t prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy." The brothers’ unease sets the stage for Joseph’s reaffirmation of his forgiveness.

Genesis 50:16–17

"They sent a message to Joseph, saying, 'Your father commanded before he died, saying, "You shall tell Joseph, ‘Now please forgive the trespass of your brothers, and their sin, because they did evil to you.’" Now, please forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of your father.' Joseph wept when they spoke to him."

Explanation: The brothers’ plea—“please forgive the trespass”—reveals their humility and recognition of Joseph’s authority and mercy. Invoking Jacob’s request reflects their desire to mend relationships and honor their father’s wishes. Joseph’s weeping highlights his empathy and genuine forgiveness, emphasizing his role as a redeemer in the family. Matthew 6:14 reinforces this theme: "For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." This moment solidifies Joseph’s commitment to reconciliation and grace.

Genesis 50:18–19

"His brothers also went and fell down before his face; and they said, 'Behold, we are your servants.' Joseph said to them, 'Don’t be afraid, for am I in the place of God?'"

Explanation: The brothers’ act of falling down and declaring themselves “your servants” fulfills the earlier dream Joseph shared in Genesis 37:7, where his brothers’ sheaves bowed to his. Joseph’s response—“Am I in the place of God?”—reflects his humility and recognition of God’s sovereignty in judging and determining justice. Romans 12:19 aligns with Joseph’s sentiment: "Don’t seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God’s wrath." This verse underscores Joseph’s graciousness and refusal to harbor resentment.

Genesis 50:20

"As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to save many people alive, as is happening today."

Explanation: This profound statement encapsulates one of the central themes of Genesis: God’s ability to transform human wrongdoing into divine purpose. Joseph reframes his brothers’ actions within the broader scope of God’s providence—“God meant it for good.” This aligns with Romans 8:28: "We know that all things work together for good for those who love God." Joseph’s perspective highlights the redemptive power of God’s plans, using his own suffering to preserve countless lives during the famine.

Genesis 50:21

"Now therefore don’t be afraid. I will nourish you and your little ones.” He comforted them, and spoke kindly to them."

Explanation: Joseph’s promise to nourish his brothers and their families demonstrates his deep compassion and forgiveness, reflecting the grace of God. His ability to comfort them despite their wrongs exemplifies Christ-like love and mercy. Ephesians 4:32 reinforces this message: "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, just as God also in Christ forgave you." Joseph’s actions solidify his role as a reconciler and provider for his family.

Genesis 50:22–23

"Joseph lived in Egypt, he, and his father’s house. Joseph lived one hundred ten years. Joseph saw Ephraim’s children to the third generation. The children also of Machir, the son of Manasseh, were born on Joseph’s knees."

Explanation: Joseph’s longevity reflects God’s blessing and allows him to witness multiple generations—“Ephraim’s children to the third generation”—signifying the fulfillment of God’s promise to multiply His people. The phrase—“born on Joseph’s knees”—symbolizes Joseph’s role in raising and blessing his grandchildren, emphasizing the continuity of faith and covenantal blessings. Psalm 128:6 resonates with this joy: "Yes, may you see your children’s children." This verse highlights the blessings of a legacy rooted in God’s promises.

Genesis 50:24–25

"Joseph said to his brothers, 'I am dying, but God will surely visit you, and bring you up out of this land to the land which he swore to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.' Joseph took an oath from the children of Israel, saying, 'God will surely visit you, and you shall carry up my bones from here.'"

Explanation: Joseph’s declaration—“God will surely visit you”—reflects his unwavering faith in God’s covenant promise to deliver the Israelites from Egypt and bring them to Canaan. His request to “carry up my bones” signifies his identification with the promised land, foreshadowing the Exodus (Exodus 13:19). Hebrews 11:22 commemorates this faith: "By faith, Joseph, when his end was near, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel, and gave instructions concerning his bones." This moment ties Joseph’s legacy to God’s unfolding redemptive plan.

Genesis 50:26

"So Joseph died, being one hundred ten years old, and they embalmed him, and he was put in a coffin in Egypt."

Explanation: The embalming and placement of Joseph in a coffin reflect Egyptian customs, signifying Joseph’s prominent role in Egypt. His death marks the end of the patriarchal era in Genesis, yet the reference to his bones anticipates the future fulfillment of God’s promise to bring Israel to Canaan. Philippians 1:6 resonates with this hope: "He who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ." Joseph’s life and death embody faith, forgiveness, and trust in God’s ultimate plan.

12 Relevant Questions and Answers on Genesis Chapter 50

1.      Why does Joseph mourn Jacob’s death in Genesis 50:1?

o    Joseph’s weeping reflects his deep love for Jacob and the profound impact of his father’s passing.

2.      What is the significance of the embalming in Genesis 50:2–3?

o    It honors Jacob’s memory and demonstrates Joseph’s integration into Egyptian customs while respecting his father’s wishes.

3.      Why is Jacob buried in Canaan in Genesis 50:12–13?

o    To honor the covenant promise of Canaan as the inheritance of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob’s descendants.

4.      What does Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers in Genesis 50:19–21 teach us?

o    It demonstrates grace and the ability to trust God’s sovereignty in transforming wrongs into blessings.

5.      What does Joseph mean by “God meant it for good” in Genesis 50:20?

o    He acknowledges that God used his suffering to save lives and fulfill His divine purposes.

6.      Why does Joseph promise to nourish his brothers in Genesis 50:21?

o    To reassure them of his forgiveness and provide for their well-being, reflecting God’s provision.

7.      What does Joseph’s longevity in Genesis 50:22–23 signify?

o    It reflects God’s blessing, allowing Joseph to witness the fulfillment of covenant promises through multiple generations.

8.      Why does Joseph make the Israelites swear to carry his bones to Canaan in Genesis 50:25?

o    To reaffirm his faith in God’s promise of the land and tie his legacy to Israel’s future deliverance.

9.      How does Genesis 50 foreshadow the Exodus?

o    Joseph’s prophecy of God visiting the Israelites and his request to move his bones link this chapter to the future Exodus.

10.  What lessons can we learn from Joseph’s life and actions in Genesis 50?

o    Faith, forgiveness, humility, and trust in God’s sovereignty are key lessons from Joseph’s example.

11.  How does Pharaoh’s support in Genesis 50:6 reflect God’s providence?

o    It shows how God uses earthly authorities to fulfill His divine plans for His people.

12.  Why is Genesis Chapter 50 important in the Bible’s narrative?

o    It concludes the book of Genesis, highlighting God’s faithfulness and setting the stage for Israel’s deliverance in Exodus.

Final Thoughts

Genesis Chapter 50, with its 26 verses, brings the book of Genesis to a powerful conclusion, weaving together themes of faith, forgiveness, and divine providence. Joseph’s response to his brothers, his faith in God’s promises, and his legacy underscore the continuity of God’s covenant plan.

Key Themes:

1.      Faith in God’s Sovereignty: Joseph’s recognition of God’s purpose in his life demonstrates unwavering trust in divine plans.

2.      Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Joseph’s actions embody grace, pointing to God’s redemptive work.

3.      Legacy and Covenant Promises: Jacob’s burial and Joseph’s final instructions emphasize the importance of spiritual heritage.