Genesis 47:8

"How many years have you lived?" Pharaoh asked.

Study Bible

How many years
This phrase reflects a common ancient Near Eastern practice of inquiring about a person's age, which was often associated with wisdom and experience. In Hebrew, the word for "years" is "שָׁנִים" (shanim), which not only denotes the passage of time but also carries connotations of cycles and seasons. This inquiry by Pharaoh is not merely about the number of years but also an acknowledgment of the life experiences and the wisdom that Jacob, as an elder, would have accumulated. In a biblical context, age is often associated with honor and respect, as seen in Leviticus 19:32, which instructs to "stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly."

have you lived?
The Hebrew root for "lived" is "חָיָה" (chayah), which means to live, to be alive, or to have life. This word is rich with meaning, as it not only refers to the physical act of living but also encompasses the quality and fullness of life. In the biblical narrative, life is a gift from God, and the way one lives is a testament to their relationship with Him. Jacob's life, filled with trials and blessings, reflects the journey of faith and reliance on God's promises. The question posed by Pharaoh can be seen as an opportunity for Jacob to reflect on God's faithfulness throughout his life, despite the hardships he faced. This aligns with the broader biblical theme that true life is found in walking with God, as echoed in Deuteronomy 30:19-20, where choosing life is equated with loving and obeying God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt during the time of Joseph. He is depicted as a powerful figure who interacts with Jacob and his family, showing favor due to Joseph's influence.

2. Jacob
Also known as Israel, he is the patriarch of the Israelites. At this point in Genesis, Jacob is an elderly man who has come to Egypt with his family due to a severe famine in Canaan.

3. Joseph
Jacob's son, who has risen to a position of power in Egypt. He is instrumental in bringing his family to Egypt to provide for them during the famine.

4. Egypt
The land where Jacob and his family have come to reside temporarily. It serves as a place of refuge during the famine but later becomes a place of bondage for the Israelites.

5. Famine
A severe shortage of food that affects the region, prompting Jacob and his family to move to Egypt for survival.

Teaching Points

The Brevity of Life
Jacob's interaction with Pharaoh reminds us of the transient nature of our earthly lives. We should live with an eternal perspective, recognizing that our time on earth is limited.

Life as a Pilgrimage
Jacob's life is described as a journey, which is a metaphor for the Christian life. Believers are called to live as pilgrims, focusing on their heavenly destination.

God's Sovereignty in Life's Seasons
Jacob's presence in Egypt during a famine illustrates God's providential care and sovereignty over the circumstances of our lives. Trusting God in every season is crucial.

Intergenerational Faithfulness
Jacob's account is part of a larger account of God's faithfulness to His covenant promises. We are encouraged to pass on our faith to the next generation.

The Role of Influence and Favor
Joseph's position in Egypt and the favor shown to Jacob's family highlight the impact of godly influence. Believers are called to be salt and light in their communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's description of his life as a pilgrimage challenge our perspective on earthly life and priorities?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty and provision in the account of Jacob and his family moving to Egypt?

3. How can we apply the concept of living as pilgrims in our daily lives, especially in a culture that often emphasizes material success?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's influence in Egypt about being a godly presence in secular environments?

5. How can we ensure that our faith is passed down to future generations, as seen in the account of Jacob and his descendants?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 47:9
Jacob's response to Pharaoh, where he describes his life as a pilgrimage, connects to the theme of life as a journey and the transient nature of earthly existence.

Hebrews 11:13-16
This passage reflects on the faith of the patriarchs, including Jacob, who viewed themselves as strangers and pilgrims on the earth, seeking a heavenly homeland.

Psalm 39:4-5
This scripture echoes the brevity of life, similar to Jacob's acknowledgment of his years before Pharaoh.