What is the meaning of Genesis 50:22? Now • The word “Now” roots us in the flow of events that have just taken place—Joseph has comforted his brothers after their father Jacob’s death (Genesis 50:21). • Scripture moves seamlessly from Jacob’s burial to daily life, reminding us that God’s story continues without pause (Psalm 90:1-2). • This opening word signals a settled, peaceful season after decades of turmoil. Joseph and his father’s household • Joseph remains the focal point, yet the verse widens to include “his father’s household,” showing the preservation of the entire covenant family (Genesis 45:7; Acts 7:14). • God had promised Abraham that his descendants would become a great nation (Genesis 12:2); this clause highlights that the seed line is intact and cared for under Joseph’s leadership (Genesis 47:11-12). • Unity replaces earlier rivalry. Joseph’s forgiveness (Genesis 50:20) has knit the family together, setting an example echoed later in Ephesians 4:32. remained in Egypt • The family does not return to Canaan yet; they “remained” where God had providentially placed them during famine (Genesis 46:3-4). • Egypt becomes a place of protection and eventual population growth (Exodus 1:7), fulfilling God’s word to Abraham that his offspring would sojourn in a foreign land for 400 years (Genesis 15:13). • This settled stay foreshadows both blessing and upcoming bondage, reminding believers that God’s plans often unfold in stages (Romans 8:28). and Joseph lived to the age of 110. • The full verse reads: “Now Joseph and his father’s household remained in Egypt, and Joseph lived to the age of 110.” • 110 years was considered an ideal lifespan in Egyptian culture, underscoring God’s favor upon Joseph both in Hebrew and Egyptian eyes (Deuteronomy 34:7 compares Moses’ vigor at 120). • Joseph’s long life means he personally shepherds the family through multiple generations, bridging the patriarchal period to the threshold of the Exodus (Genesis 50:23; Joshua 24:32). • His longevity illustrates Proverbs 3:1-2—that obedience and faith can be accompanied by “length of days and years of life.” summary Genesis 50:22 caps Joseph’s story with a portrait of settled security, covenant faithfulness, and divinely granted longevity. The family remains united in Egypt under Joseph’s wise care, exactly where God had foretold, and Joseph’s 110 years testify that the Lord rewards steadfast trust and obedience while setting the stage for the next chapter of redemption history. |
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