Old Testament
Genesis 47:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Jacob, also known as Israel, asks his son Joseph to make a solemn promise to him.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Jacob said, "Make an oath to me." So Joseph swore an oath to him. Then Israel bowed in worship at the head of his bed.
And he said, Swear unto me. And he sware unto him. And Israel bowed himself upon the bed’s head.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jacob, also known as Israel, asks his son Joseph to make a solemn promise to him. This request for an oath signifies the importance of the matter at hand, likely related to Jacob's wishes for his burial and the future of the family. Joseph agrees and swears the oath, demonstrating his respect and commitment to his father's wishes. After this exchange, Jacob shows his reverence and faith by bowing at the head of his bed, which reflects his deep spiritual connection and acknowledgment of God's presence in his life. This act of worship highlights Jacob's faith even in his old age, as he prepares for the end of his life. It emphasizes the significance of family bonds, promises, and the importance of honoring one's parents, as well as the act of worship in recognizing God's sovereignty.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 47:31 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of honoring our commitments and the value of family relationships. It encourages us to approach our promises with seriousness and to maintain a posture of worship and reverence in our lives, recognizing the presence of God in our daily actions and decisions.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 47:31 mean?
Genesis 47:31 describes Jacob asking Joseph to swear an oath, indicating the seriousness of his request regarding family matters. Jacob's act of bowing in worship at the end signifies his faith and acknowledgment of God's presence.
What is the significance of the oath in Genesis 47:31?
The oath in Genesis 47:31 highlights the importance of family commitments and the trust between Jacob and Joseph. It reflects the deep respect Joseph has for his father's wishes and the seriousness of honoring family promises.
Why did Jacob bow at the head of his bed in Genesis 47:31?
Jacob bowed at the head of his bed as an act of worship, demonstrating his deep faith and spiritual connection with God. This act signifies his acknowledgment of God's sovereignty even in his old age.
How does Genesis 47:31 relate to family relationships?
Genesis 47:31 emphasizes the importance of family relationships through Jacob's request for an oath from Joseph. It illustrates the value of honoring commitments and the respect that should exist between family members.
The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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