Old Testament
Genesis 47:29
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When the time of Israel's death approached, he summoned his son Joseph and said to him, "If I have found grace in your eyes, please place your hand under my thigh and deal kindly and truly with me. Do not bury me in Egypt."
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And the time drew nigh that Israel must die: and he called his son Joseph, and said unto him, If now I have found grace in thy sight, put, I pray thee, thy hand under my thigh, and deal kindly and truly with me; bury me not, I pray thee, in Egypt:
What Genesis 47:29 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Israel, also known as Jacob, is nearing the end of his life and calls for his son Joseph. He asks Joseph to promise him that he will not be buried in Egypt, but rather in the land of Canaan, where his ancestors are buried. The act of placing a hand under the thigh is a solemn gesture, signifying a serious oath. Jacob's request reflects his deep connection to his homeland and the importance of being laid to rest with his family. This moment highlights the themes of family loyalty, the significance of burial practices, and the desire to honor one's heritage. Jacob's request also emphasizes the faith he has in God's promises regarding the land of Canaan, which was promised to his descendants. It serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of honoring family wishes and maintaining connections to one's roots, even in the face of death.
How to apply Genesis 47:29 to your life
This verse encourages us to honor the wishes of our loved ones, especially regarding significant matters like burial and legacy. It reminds us to stay connected to our roots and to uphold family traditions, reflecting on what truly matters in life and death.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: A Promise to His Father (Genesis 47:27–31)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Shechem
Where God promised the land to Abram, and where Joshua led Israel to renew the covenant.
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Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 Jacob's request to Joseph signify?
Jacob's request to Joseph to promise not to bury him in Egypt signifies a deep connection to his homeland and heritage. By asking Joseph to place his hand under his thigh, Jacob is invoking a solemn oath, emphasizing the seriousness of his request. This act reflects the importance of family loyalty and the desire to honor one's ancestors by being laid to rest in the land of Canaan, which was promised to their descendants.
Why is burial in Canaan important to Jacob?
Burial in Canaan is important to Jacob because it represents a connection to his ancestors and the fulfillment of God's promises regarding the land. Jacob wants to be buried where his family is, highlighting the significance of heritage and the continuity of family ties. This desire also reflects his faith in God's covenant with his descendants, reinforcing the idea that the land of Canaan is their rightful inheritance.
What does placing a hand under the thigh symbolize?
Placing a hand under the thigh is a cultural gesture that symbolizes a serious oath or promise. In the context of Jacob's request to Joseph, it signifies the gravity of the commitment Joseph is making to honor his father's wishes. This act underscores the importance of trust and loyalty within family relationships, particularly in matters of life and death.
How does this verse relate to family traditions?
This verse relates to family traditions by emphasizing the importance of honoring the wishes of loved ones, especially regarding burial practices and legacy. Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan reflects a commitment to family heritage and the customs surrounding death. It serves as a reminder for us to uphold family traditions and values, ensuring that we maintain connections to our roots and respect the desires of those who came before us.
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