Genesis 47:30

but when I lie down with my fathers, carry me out of Egypt and bury me with them." Joseph answered, "I will do as you have requested."

Study Bible

but when I lie down with my fathers
This phrase indicates Jacob's desire to be buried with his ancestors, reflecting the Hebrew tradition of family burial sites. "Lie down with my fathers" is a euphemism for death, emphasizing continuity with the patriarchs Abraham and Isaac. This reflects the importance of family lineage and the covenant promises given to Abraham (Genesis 15:15). It also underscores the belief in an afterlife and the hope of resurrection, as seen in the faith of the patriarchs.

carry me out of Egypt
Jacob's request to be taken out of Egypt signifies his desire not to be permanently associated with a foreign land, despite Egypt being a place of refuge during famine. This reflects the Israelites' understanding of Egypt as a temporary dwelling, not their promised land. It foreshadows the Exodus, where God would lead the Israelites out of Egypt to the land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Exodus 3:8).

and bury me with them.
Jacob's wish to be buried in the cave of Machpelah in Canaan, where Abraham and Isaac were buried (Genesis 49:29-32), highlights the significance of the Promised Land. This burial site, purchased by Abraham (Genesis 23:17-20), symbolizes the permanence of God's covenant. It also serves as a physical reminder of God's promises and the hope of future fulfillment.

Joseph answered,
Joseph's response to his father's request demonstrates his respect and obedience, reflecting the biblical principle of honoring one's parents (Exodus 20:12). Joseph, as a type of Christ, shows compassion and faithfulness, mirroring Jesus' obedience to the Father (John 6:38).

“I will do as you have requested.”
Joseph's commitment to fulfill Jacob's request underscores the importance of oath-keeping and integrity. It also illustrates the theme of faithfulness to family and God's promises. Joseph's assurance can be seen as a parallel to Christ's promise to fulfill the Father's will and secure the inheritance for His people (Hebrews 9:15).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the Israelites, who is nearing the end of his life and makes a request concerning his burial.

2. Joseph
Jacob's son, who holds a high position in Egypt and is entrusted with fulfilling his father's burial wishes.

3. Egypt
The land where Jacob and his family have settled during a time of famine, but not their promised land.

4. Canaan
The land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, where Jacob desires to be buried with his ancestors.

5. The Patriarchs' Burial Site
The cave of Machpelah in Canaan, where Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebekah, and Leah are buried.

Teaching Points

Faith in God's Promises
Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan reflects his unwavering faith in God's promises to his forefathers. Believers are encouraged to hold fast to God's promises, even when circumstances seem contrary.

The Importance of Legacy
Jacob's desire to be buried with his fathers underscores the significance of family legacy and heritage. Christians are reminded to consider the spiritual legacy they leave for future generations.

The Temporary Nature of Earthly Dwelling
Jacob's insistence on being buried in Canaan, despite living in Egypt, serves as a reminder that our ultimate home is not in this world. Believers are called to live with an eternal perspective.

Honoring Parental Wishes
Joseph's commitment to fulfilling his father's request highlights the importance of honoring and respecting the wishes of our parents, as long as they align with God's will.

The Role of Leadership in Family
Joseph's role in ensuring his father's burial wishes are met demonstrates the responsibility of leadership within the family. Christian leaders are encouraged to serve their families with integrity and faithfulness.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan demonstrate his faith in God's promises, and how can we apply this faith in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the burial site of the patriarchs serve as a symbol of God's covenant with His people?

3. How can we ensure that we are leaving a spiritual legacy for future generations, similar to Jacob's concern for his family heritage?

4. What are some practical ways we can honor the wishes of our parents or elders, and how does this align with biblical teachings?

5. How does Joseph's leadership in fulfilling his father's request inspire us to take responsibility within our own families and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 23
The purchase of the cave of Machpelah by Abraham, establishing it as the family burial site.

Genesis 49:29-32
Jacob reiterates his burial instructions to his sons, emphasizing the importance of being laid to rest with his ancestors.

Hebrews 11:21-22
Highlights Jacob's faith in God's promises, even in his dying moments, and Joseph's faith in God's future deliverance.

Exodus 13:19
Joseph's bones are carried out of Egypt during the Exodus, fulfilling his own request to be buried in the Promised Land.