Topical Encyclopedia
The practice of using coffins for burial has ancient roots, with evidence suggesting that the use of coffins dates back to early civilizations. In the context of biblical history, the use of coffins is mentioned explicitly in the account of Joseph's burial in Egypt. The Berean Standard Bible provides a clear reference to this practice in
Genesis 50:26: "So Joseph died at the age of 110. And they embalmed his body and placed it in a coffin in Egypt."
The use of a coffin for Joseph is significant, as it reflects the Egyptian customs of the time. The Egyptians were known for their elaborate burial practices, which included embalming and the use of coffins, often made of wood or stone, to preserve and honor the deceased. This practice was part of their belief in the afterlife and the importance of preserving the body for the journey beyond.
In the broader biblical context, the use of coffins is not frequently mentioned, suggesting that it was not a common practice among the Israelites. Instead, burials were typically conducted in caves or tombs, as seen in the burial of the patriarchs. For instance, Abraham purchased the cave of Machpelah as a burial site for his wife Sarah, and it later became the family tomb (
Genesis 23:19-20).
The absence of frequent references to coffins in the Hebrew Scriptures may indicate a cultural distinction between the Israelites and their neighboring civilizations, such as the Egyptians. The Israelites' burial practices were more focused on simplicity and the return of the body to the earth, as reflected in
Genesis 3:19 : "By the sweat of your brow you will eat your bread, until you return to the ground, because out of it were you taken; for dust you are, and to dust you shall return."
Despite the limited mention of coffins, the account of Joseph's burial in a coffin highlights the influence of Egyptian customs on the Israelites during their time in Egypt. It also underscores the respect and honor given to Joseph, a prominent figure who played a crucial role in the survival of his family and the Egyptian nation during a time of famine.
In summary, while the use of coffins is not a predominant theme in biblical burial practices, the example of Joseph illustrates the intersection of cultural practices and the adaptation of foreign customs by the Israelites during their sojourn in Egypt.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Genesis 50:26So Joseph died, being an hundred and ten years old: and they embalmed him, and he was put in a coffin in Egypt.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Library
The First Theban Empire
... Papis, from Usirniri Anu, Sahuri, and Snofrui, and claimed that the antiquity of
their ... The statues of the double were rude and clumsy, the coffins heavy and ...
/.../chapter iiithe first theban empire.htm
The Political Constitution of Egypt
... hand, probably recalls the human victims formerly sacrificed at the burial of a ... the
reputation, extending even to the classical writers of antiquity, of the ...
/.../chapter ithe political constitution of.htm
the Legendary History of Egypt
... were composed at leisure by priests desirous of enhancing the antiquity of their ...
Coffins of the XXth and XXIst dynasties, with a yellow ground, often display ...
/.../chapter iii -the legendary history of.htm
The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt
... nations. From remote antiquity Syria was in the condition just described, and
thus destined to become subject to foreign rule. Chaldaea ...
/.../chapter ithe first chaldaean empire.htm
Resources
Is burial the only option a Christian can consider? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was a burial place so important in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgIs the Shroud of Turin authentic? | GotQuestions.orgBurial: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
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