Old Testament
Genesis 50:5
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"My father made me swear an oath, saying, 'I am about to die. Bury me in the tomb that I dug for myself in the land of Canaan.' So please let me go up and bury my father, and then I will return."
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My father made me swear, saying, Lo, I die: in my grave which I have digged for me in the land of Canaan, there shalt thou bury me. Now therefore let me go up, I pray thee, and bury my father, and I will come again.
What Genesis 50:5 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph is speaking to Pharaoh about his father Jacob's last wishes. Jacob had asked Joseph to promise that he would bury him in the land of Canaan, where he had prepared a tomb for himself. This request highlights the importance of honoring family traditions and the significance of burial places in their culture. Joseph is respectful of his father's wishes and seeks permission from Pharaoh to leave Egypt temporarily to fulfill this promise. This moment reflects Joseph's loyalty and commitment to his family, even after achieving great power in Egypt. It also emphasizes the deep connection the Israelites had to the land of Canaan, which was promised to them by God. Joseph's request shows that he values his heritage and the covenant made with his ancestors, demonstrating the importance of remembering one's roots and responsibilities to family.
How to apply Genesis 50:5 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of honoring our family's wishes and traditions. It encourages us to reflect on our commitments to loved ones and to prioritize family values, even amidst our busy lives. Keeping promises strengthens relationships and shows respect for our heritage.
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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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 Genesis 50:5 mean?
Genesis 50:5 recounts Joseph asking Pharaoh for permission to bury his father Jacob in Canaan, fulfilling Jacob's last wish. This reflects Joseph's loyalty to his family and the importance of honoring their traditions.
What is the significance of Jacob's burial request in Genesis 50:5?
Jacob's request to be buried in Canaan highlights the cultural importance of burial places and the Israelites' connection to the land promised to them by God. It emphasizes family loyalty and the commitment to honoring one's heritage.
Why did Jacob want to be buried in Canaan according to Genesis 50:5?
Jacob wanted to be buried in Canaan because it was the land promised to his ancestors by God, signifying a deep connection to his heritage and the covenant made with his family.
How does Genesis 50:5 relate to family values?
Genesis 50:5 emphasizes the importance of honoring family wishes and traditions, encouraging individuals to prioritize commitments to loved ones and maintain strong family relationships.
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