Old Testament
Genesis 50:11
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When the Canaanites living in that region saw the mourning at the threshingfloor of Atad, they said, "This is a deeply sorrowful occasion for the Egyptians." That is why the place was named Abelmizraim, which is on the other side of the Jordan.
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And when the inhabitants of the land, the Canaanites, saw the mourning in the floor of Atad, they said, This is a grievous mourning to the Egyptians: wherefore the name of it was called Abelmizraim, which is beyond Jordan.
What Genesis 50:11 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 50:11, the Canaanites observe the mourning of Joseph and his family at the threshing floor of Atad. They recognize the deep sorrow of the Egyptians, indicating the significance of the event. The mourning is so profound that it leads to the naming of the place 'Abelmizraim,' which means 'the mourning of the Egyptians.' This reflects the cultural sensitivity of the Canaanites, who acknowledge the grief of another people. The act of mourning is a universal expression of loss, and the Canaanites' response shows their awareness of the emotional weight of the situation. The naming of the location serves as a lasting reminder of the event and the shared human experience of grief, transcending cultural boundaries. This moment highlights the importance of community and empathy in times of sorrow, as well as the impact of significant events on the landscape and memory of a people.
How to apply Genesis 50:11 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of recognizing and respecting the grief of others. In our own lives, we should be sensitive to the emotions of those around us, offering support and understanding during their times of sorrow. Empathy can strengthen community bonds.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Burying Jacob (Genesis 50:1–14)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Related Bible verses
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 50:11 mean?
Genesis 50:11 describes the mourning of Joseph and his family at the threshing floor of Atad, which the Canaanites observe. They recognize the deep sorrow of the Egyptians, leading to the naming of the place 'Abelmizraim,' meaning 'the mourning of the Egyptians.' This highlights the significance of communal grief.
What is the significance of the name Abelmizraim in Genesis 50:11?
The name Abelmizraim, given in Genesis 50:11, means 'the mourning of the Egyptians.' It signifies the profound sorrow experienced during Joseph's mourning and reflects the cultural sensitivity of the Canaanites who witnessed the event.
How does Genesis 50:11 reflect cultural sensitivity?
In Genesis 50:11, the Canaanites show cultural sensitivity by acknowledging the deep mourning of the Egyptians. Their recognition of another group's sorrow illustrates empathy and respect for shared human emotions.
What themes are present in Genesis 50:11?
Genesis 50:11 presents themes of mourning, cultural sensitivity, community, and grief. It highlights the importance of empathy and the impact of significant events on collective memory.
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