Historical Context

The narrative of Israel's sojourn in Egypt, particularly in the land of Goshen, is a significant episode in biblical history. This period begins with the migration of Jacob and his family to Egypt during a severe famine, as recorded in the Book of Genesis. The move was facilitated by Joseph, Jacob's son, who had risen to a position of power in Egypt as second-in-command to Pharaoh. This event marks the beginning of Israel's transformation from a family into a nation.

Biblical Account

The account of Israel's settlement in Egypt is primarily found in Genesis 46-47. When Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, he instructs them to bring their father, Jacob, and their families to Egypt to survive the famine. Joseph assures them of Pharaoh's favor and promises them the best of the land. Genesis 46:28-29 states, "Now Jacob sent Judah ahead of him to Joseph to get directions to Goshen. When they arrived in the region of Goshen, Joseph prepared his chariot and went to Goshen to meet his father Israel."

Pharaoh's approval of this arrangement is evident in Genesis 47:5-6 : "Pharaoh said to Joseph, 'Your father and your brothers have come to you. The land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and brothers in the best part of the land. Let them live in the land of Goshen.'"

The Land of Goshen

Goshen is described as a fertile region suitable for livestock, which was ideal for Jacob's family, who were shepherds. This area, located in the eastern part of the Nile Delta, provided the Israelites with the resources needed to thrive and multiply. The choice of Goshen also served a practical purpose, as it allowed the Israelites to maintain their distinct cultural and religious identity while living in a foreign land.

Significance in Israel's History

The placement of Israel in Goshen is a pivotal moment in the unfolding of God's covenantal promises. It ensured the survival of Jacob's family during the famine and set the stage for the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would become a great nation (Genesis 12:2). The time in Egypt, although initially a period of prosperity, eventually led to the Israelites' enslavement, setting the stage for the Exodus and the subsequent journey to the Promised Land.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Israel's time in Egypt underscores God's providence and faithfulness. Despite the challenges and eventual oppression, God's hand is evident in preserving and multiplying His chosen people. The narrative highlights themes of divine sovereignty, the importance of faith and obedience, and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through history.

Cultural and Social Aspects

Living in Goshen allowed the Israelites to grow in number and strength while maintaining their distinct identity. This separation from the Egyptians, who viewed shepherds as detestable (Genesis 46:34), helped preserve their cultural and religious practices. The Israelites' growth in Goshen is a testament to God's blessing and a precursor to their eventual liberation and journey to the land promised to their forefathers.

Conclusion

The placement of Israel in the land of Goshen is a foundational episode in the biblical narrative, illustrating God's provision and the unfolding of His covenantal promises. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of trusting in His plan, even in foreign and challenging circumstances.Genesis 46:34
That you shall say, Your servants' trade has been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that you may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination to the Egyptians.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 47:11,27
And Joseph placed his father and his brothers, and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

The Story of Moses, the Child who was Found in the River
... daughter of king Pharaoh"all the kings of Egypt were called ... [Illustration: She placed
her baby ... children." You have heard how the children of Israel came to ...
/.../marshall/the wonder book of bible stories/the story of moses the.htm

Egypt
... the titles assumed by the Pharaohs are already placed above the ... which had much in
common with that of Israel. ... and brought back the gods and religion of Egypt. ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter v egypt.htm

The Israelites
... immediate occasion of the settlement of Israel on the ... of the Asiatics as still remained
in Egypt were turned ... by the native historian Manetho, placed the Exodus ...
/.../sayce/early israel and the surrounding nations/chapter i the israelites.htm

The Training of a Statesman.
... the chief actors in this opening scene in Israel's history ... to task work by the
strong-handed ruler of Egypt. ... also increased the burden which was placed upon them ...
/.../kent/the making of a nation/study viii the training of.htm

Chapter xlv
... that his exalted position is arranged for Israel's advantage ... God," designated as
the one who placed Joseph in ... God hath appointed me lord of all Egypt; come down ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter xlv.htm

Chapter l
... The entrails were placed in a jar ... personal attendants; "all the elders of the land
of Egypt" "all who ... The only ones of Israel left behind were those that were ...
//christianbookshelf.org/leupold/exposition of genesis volume 1/chapter l.htm

"The Pharaoh Drew Nigh"
... Look upon Egypt and learn. ... Never hast thou meant to overtake Israel! ... One by one the
ministers had fallen away from Har-hat and placed themselves by the king. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/miller/the yoke/chapter xliii the pharaoh drew.htm

Growth by Transplanting
... And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and ... Nor would there have been in Egypt,
unless under ... an important factor in the development of Israel; and, once ...
/.../maclaren/expositions of holy scripture k/growth by transplanting.htm

Joseph and his Brethren
... And Israel said unto Joseph, Now let me die, since I ... are come unto thee: the land
of Egypt is before ... And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/i joseph and his brethren.htm

Sovereignty of God in Administration
... on the morrow, and all the cattle of Egypt died: but of the cattle of the children
of Israel died not ... No limitations must be placed upon the above declarations ...
/.../pink/the sovereignty of god/chapter three sovereignty of god.htm

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