Genesis 47:31 - He said, “Swear to me,” and he swore to him. Israel bowed himself on the bed’s head.
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What does "Genesis 47:31" mean?
This verse from Genesis 47:31 is the concluding part of a negotiation between Jacob (also called Israel) and his son Joseph. Let's break it down:
"He said, “Swear to me,” and he swore to him." Jacob, nearing death in Egypt, is requesting a solemn promise from Joseph. He wants Joseph to swear that he will not bury him in Egypt. He wants to be taken back to Canaan, the land of his ancestors, and buried in the family tomb. Joseph agrees and takes an oath to fulfill his father's request. The significance of the oath is it is considered a serious commitment that binds Joseph to fulfill Jacob's wishes.
"Israel bowed himself on the bed’s head." This part is open to some interpretation:
Gratitude and Relief: Most scholars believe Jacob bowed in worship and gratitude to God for Joseph's promise. He is relieved that his wishes will be carried out, and acknowledges God's providence in orchestrating this outcome.
Weakness: Jacob is on his deathbed and may be too weak to sit up fully. Bowing "on the bed's head" might simply indicate a slight inclination of his body toward the head of the bed in a gesture of respect and thanks.
Symbolic Act: Some suggest the bowing is a symbolic act of Jacob acknowledging Joseph's authority and power in Egypt.
In summary, the verse shows:
Jacob's deep connection to the Promised Land: He desires to be buried in Canaan, emphasizing his faith in God's promises to his ancestors.
Joseph's filial piety: He honors his father's request and takes a solemn oath to fulfill it.
A moment of reverence: Jacob bows, likely in gratitude to God and possibly also in acknowledgement of Joseph's position.
The verse is a poignant illustration of family loyalty, faith, and the importance of honoring one's elders, particularly in the context of fulfilling end-of-life wishes.
Genesis 47:31 - He said, “Swear to me,” and he swore to him. Israel bowed himself on the bed’s head.
What does "Genesis 47:31" mean?
This verse from Genesis 47:31 is the concluding part of a negotiation between Jacob (also called Israel) and his son Joseph. Let's break it down:
"He said, “Swear to me,” and he swore to him." Jacob, nearing death in Egypt, is requesting a solemn promise from Joseph. He wants Joseph to swear that he will not bury him in Egypt. He wants to be taken back to Canaan, the land of his ancestors, and buried in the family tomb. Joseph agrees and takes an oath to fulfill his father's request. The significance of the oath is it is considered a serious commitment that binds Joseph to fulfill Jacob's wishes.
"Israel bowed himself on the bed’s head." This part is open to some interpretation:
Gratitude and Relief: Most scholars believe Jacob bowed in worship and gratitude to God for Joseph's promise. He is relieved that his wishes will be carried out, and acknowledges God's providence in orchestrating this outcome.
Weakness: Jacob is on his deathbed and may be too weak to sit up fully. Bowing "on the bed's head" might simply indicate a slight inclination of his body toward the head of the bed in a gesture of respect and thanks.
Symbolic Act: Some suggest the bowing is a symbolic act of Jacob acknowledging Joseph's authority and power in Egypt.
In summary, the verse shows:
Jacob's deep connection to the Promised Land: He desires to be buried in Canaan, emphasizing his faith in God's promises to his ancestors.
Joseph's filial piety: He honors his father's request and takes a solemn oath to fulfill it.
A moment of reverence: Jacob bows, likely in gratitude to God and possibly also in acknowledgement of Joseph's position.
The verse is a poignant illustration of family loyalty, faith, and the importance of honoring one's elders, particularly in the context of fulfilling end-of-life wishes.