Old Testament
Genesis 46:27
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Joseph's sons, who were born to him in Egypt, numbered two. Altogether, the souls of Jacob's household who came to Egypt totaled seventy.
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And the sons of Joseph, which were born him in Egypt, were two souls: all the souls of the house of Jacob, which came into Egypt, were threescore and ten.
What Genesis 46:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 46:27, we learn about the family of Jacob as they move to Egypt during a time of famine. Joseph, who was already in Egypt, had two sons born to him there. This verse highlights the total number of Jacob's family members who migrated to Egypt, which was seventy. This number is significant as it represents the growth of Jacob's family and sets the stage for the Israelites' future in Egypt. The mention of Joseph's sons emphasizes the continuation of his lineage and the importance of family ties. The total of seventy souls includes Jacob, his sons, their wives, and children, illustrating the expansion of the family from the original patriarch Abraham. This migration marks a pivotal moment in biblical history, leading to the Israelites' eventual enslavement and their later exodus from Egypt. Understanding this context helps us appreciate the significance of family and God's plan for His people throughout generations.
How to apply Genesis 46:27 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of family and community in our lives. Just as Jacob's family came together during a time of need, we should support and rely on our loved ones in challenging times. Building strong family ties can provide strength and resilience in our own journeys.
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 46:27 mean?
Genesis 46:27 indicates that Joseph had two sons born in Egypt and that the total number of Jacob's family members who moved to Egypt was seventy. This highlights the growth of Jacob's family and sets the stage for their future in Egypt.
What is the significance of the number seventy in Genesis 46:27?
The number seventy in Genesis 46:27 represents the total souls of Jacob's household that migrated to Egypt, symbolizing the expansion of the family from Abraham's lineage and foreshadowing the Israelites' future in Egypt.
Who are the sons of Joseph mentioned in Genesis 46:27?
Genesis 46:27 does not name Joseph's sons but states that he had two sons born to him in Egypt. Their names are later revealed in the Bible as Manasseh and Ephraim.
How does Genesis 46:27 relate to the story of the Israelites in Egypt?
Genesis 46:27 marks the beginning of Jacob's family's migration to Egypt, which is a pivotal moment leading to their eventual enslavement and the Exodus. It sets the foundation for the Israelites' growth as a nation in Egypt.
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