Genesis 46:1

KJV

¶ And Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Israel {H3478} took his journey {H5265} with all that he had, and came {H935} to Beersheba {H884}, and offered {H2076} sacrifices {H2077} unto the God {H430} of his father {H1} Isaac {H3327}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Isra'el took everything he owned with him on his journey. He arrived at Be'er-Sheva and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Yitz'chak.

Berean Standard Bible

So Israel set out with all that he had, and when he came to Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.

American Standard Version

And Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beer-sheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 46:1 marks a pivotal moment in the patriarchal narrative as Jacob, now named Israel, embarks on a momentous journey from Canaan to Egypt. Driven by famine and the astonishing news of Joseph's survival and prominence, he pauses at Beersheba, a site hallowed by ancestral encounters with God. Here, Israel offers sacrifices to "the God of his father Isaac," an act of profound worship and dependence, seeking divine guidance and blessing for the daunting transition into an unfamiliar land, thereby anchoring his family's future in the continuity of God's covenant promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse initiates the climactic section of the Joseph narrative, transitioning from the familial reconciliation in Genesis 45 to the establishment of Israel's family in Egypt. It immediately precedes God's direct appearance to Jacob in [Genesis 46:2-4](/genesis/46-2-4 "God's Assurance to Jacob at Beersheba"), where He explicitly commands Jacob to go to Egypt and promises to make him a great nation there. This divine affirmation validates Jacob's decision to leave the Promised Land, framing the descent into Egypt not as a retreat, but as a divinely orchestrated step in the unfolding covenant plan, setting the stage for the nation's growth and eventual Exodus. The subsequent verses detail the complete list of Jacob's household, emphasizing the nascent nation's entirety.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East frequently experienced periods of famine, making migration for survival a common practice. Egypt, with its fertile Nile Delta, was often a refuge during such times, known for its agricultural abundance. However, entering a foreign land, especially one as powerful and culturally distinct as Egypt, was a significant and potentially perilous undertaking. The act of offering sacrifices before a major journey was a common religious practice, seeking divine favor, protection, and guidance for the unknown. Beersheba itself was a known crossroads and a significant spiritual site, having been associated with covenant dealings and altars built by both [Abraham](/genesis/21-31 "Abraham's Oath at Beersheba") and [Isaac](/genesis/26-23-25 "Isaac's Encounter with God at Beersheba").
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 46:1 powerfully reinforces several overarching themes found throughout the book of Genesis. The theme of **Divine Providence** is evident as God orchestrates events, using Joseph's position and the famine to move Jacob's family to Egypt for their preservation and future growth, fulfilling earlier promises of numerous descendants (e.g., [Genesis 15:5](/genesis/15-5 "God's Promise of Descendants to Abraham")). The **Continuity of the Covenant** is highlighted by Jacob's worship of "the God of his father Isaac," emphasizing the unbroken lineage of God's faithfulness from Abraham through Isaac to Jacob. Furthermore, the verse underscores the theme of **Faith and Obedience in Transition**, as Jacob, despite the daunting nature of leaving the promised land, seeks God's guidance through worship, demonstrating his trust before embarking on a divinely directed journey that would shape the future of the nation of Israel, as seen in the subsequent narrative of [Genesis 46](/genesis/46 "Genesis Chapter 46 - Jacob's Journey to Egypt").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
The verse states, "¶ And Israel took his journey with all that he had, and came to Beersheba, and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac."

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Israel (Hebrew, _Yisrâʼêl'_):** From שָׂרָה and אֵל; he will rule as God; Jisrael, a symbolical name of Jacob; also (typically) of his posterity; Israel. The use of "Israel" here, rather than "Jacob," is highly significant. It emphasizes Jacob's transformed spiritual identity, a name he received after wrestling with God ([Genesis 32:28](/genesis/32-28 "Jacob's New Name, Israel")). This name signifies his maturity and his role as the patriarch of God's chosen people, underscoring the spiritual weight of this momentous journey for the nascent nation.
* **Beersheba (Hebrew, _Bᵉʼêr Shebaʻ'_):** From בְּאֵר and שֶׁבַע (in the sense of שָׁבַע); well of an oath; Beer-Sheba, a place in Palestine; Beer-shebah. This geographical location is more than just a stop; it is a place of deep ancestral and covenantal significance. Its name evokes the "well of the oath" or "well of seven," recalling the covenant made by Abraham and Abimelech ([Genesis 21:31](/genesis/21-31 "Abraham and Abimelech at Beersheba")) and Isaac's encounter with God ([Genesis 26:23-25](/genesis/26-23-25 "Isaac's Encounter with God at Beersheba")), making it a sacred point of connection to the patriarchal heritage.
* **sacrifices (Hebrew, _zebach'_):** From זָבַח; properly, a slaughter, i.e. the flesh of an animal; by implication, a sacrifice (the victim or the act); offer(-ing), sacrifice. This term refers to the act of offering an animal, typically as a burnt offering or peace offering. It signifies an act of worship, deep devotion, and seeking communion with God. In this context, it expresses Jacob's dependence, gratitude, and petition for divine favor and guidance before a major, uncertain transition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Israel took his journey with all that he had":** This clause highlights the comprehensive nature of Jacob's departure. The use of "Israel" emphasizes his transformed identity and the spiritual significance of this move for the entire covenant family. "All that he had" underscores that this was not a temporary visit but a complete relocation of his entire household, possessions, and livestock, representing the nascent nation of God's chosen people.
* **"and came to Beersheba":** This phrase indicates a deliberate and intentional stop at a specific location. Beersheba was not merely a convenient waypoint but a site imbued with profound spiritual and historical significance for Jacob's family, serving as a place where his forefathers had worshipped God and received covenant affirmations. His stopping here signifies a spiritual anchoring before venturing into the unknown.
* **"and offered sacrifices unto the God of his father Isaac":** This final clause reveals the spiritual core of Jacob's actions. The act of offering sacrifices is a profound expression of worship, dependence, and a plea for divine favor. The specific invocation of "the God of his father Isaac" powerfully emphasizes the continuity of the covenant relationship. It signifies Jacob's faith that the same God who guided and provided for his ancestors would continue to guide and provide for him and his family in this new, uncertain chapter, affirming his place within the unbroken line of God's covenant people.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound meaning. **Symbolism** is prominent with the use of "Israel" instead of Jacob, symbolizing the patriarch's matured spiritual identity and the nascent nation's journey. Beersheba itself functions as a powerful **symbol** of ancestral heritage and covenant continuity, serving as a sacred touchstone for Jacob before a major transition. The phrase "the God of his father Isaac" is an instance of **Anaphora** (or a recurring motif) when viewed in the broader patriarchal narratives, emphasizing the consistent, generational nature of God's covenant faithfulness. The entire verse also functions as **Foreshadowing**, subtly preparing the reader for God's immediate appearance and direct instruction to Jacob in the subsequent verses, indicating that Jacob's act of worship precedes and sets the stage for divine revelation and assurance.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 46:1 encapsulates profound theological truths, primarily emphasizing God's sovereign guidance and the enduring nature of His covenant. Jacob's deliberate act of worship at Beersheba before embarking on a monumental journey to Egypt demonstrates his profound trust in God's leading, even when facing a daunting and uncertain future. This act of seeking divine favor and guidance before a major life transition underscores the importance of spiritual preparation and dependence on God's will. By invoking "the God of his father Isaac," Jacob explicitly reaffirms the unbroken covenant relationship passed down through generations, grounding himself and his family in the promises made to Abraham and Isaac, and acknowledging God's enduring faithfulness to His chosen lineage. This verse thus highlights the continuity of God's redemptive plan and the necessity of faith in the face of the unknown.

* [Genesis 12:1-3](/genesis/12-1-3 "God's Call to Abraham") – God's initial call to Abraham to leave his land, establishing the pattern of divine leading into the unknown.
* [Genesis 26:23-25](/genesis/26-23-25 "Isaac's Encounter with God at Beersheba") – Isaac's own encounter with God at Beersheba, where he built an altar and called upon the Lord, establishing the site's sacred significance for the family.
* [Psalm 37:23-24](/psalms/37-23-24 "The Steps of a Good Man") – "The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him," illustrating God's guidance in the believer's journey.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 46:1 offers a powerful paradigm for navigating life's major transitions. Just as Jacob paused at a sacred ancestral site to seek God before descending into the unknown of Egypt, we too are called to intentionally anchor ourselves in worship and prayer during periods of significant change, uncertainty, or major decision-making. This verse reminds us that true faith is not a reckless leap but a confident step taken after seeking divine counsel and reaffirming our dependence on God. In an era of constant flux, Jacob's example teaches us the vital importance of pausing, remembering God's past faithfulness in our lives and in the lives of those who have gone before us, and seeking His face for guidance. This spiritual grounding strengthens our faith, allowing us to face future challenges with the assurance that even when God's plan leads us out of our comfort zones or into unfamiliar territory, His hand is guiding us for our preservation, growth, and ultimate good. It is a call to prioritize spiritual preparation over hasty action, trusting that God will order our steps.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What major transitions or uncertain periods are you currently facing in your life?**
* **How can you intentionally pause and seek God's guidance and blessing during these times, following Jacob's example?**
* **In what ways can remembering God's past faithfulness (both in your life and in biblical history) strengthen your faith for future challenges?**
* **How does worship serve as an anchor for your soul when you feel uncertain or fearful about the future?**

### FAQ
**Why did Jacob choose Beersheba for his stop?**

Answer: Beersheba held deep spiritual significance for Jacob's family. It was a place where both his grandfather [Abraham](/genesis/21-31 "Abraham's Oath at Beersheba") and his father [Isaac](/genesis/26-23-25 "Isaac's Encounter with God at Beersheba") had significant encounters with God, built altars, and called upon the Lord. Jacob's deliberate stop there was an act of connecting with his ancestral spiritual heritage and seeking divine guidance and affirmation before embarking on a major, uncertain journey into Egypt. It was a place of covenant memory and spiritual renewal.

**What was the purpose of Jacob offering sacrifices?**

Answer: Jacob's sacrifices were a profound act of worship, demonstrating his deep devotion, dependence, and desire for divine favor. In a moment of significant transition and uncertainty, it signified his complete dedication and trust in God for the journey ahead. Through this act, he acknowledged God's sovereignty over his life and family, seeking communion and expressing gratitude or petition. It was a spiritual preparation for a divinely orchestrated move.

**Why is Jacob referred to as 'Israel' in this verse?**

Answer: The use of "Israel" (Hebrew, _Yisrâʼêl'_), Jacob's new name meaning "he will rule as God" or "God strives," underscores his matured spiritual identity. He received this name after wrestling with God at Peniel ([Genesis 32:28](/genesis/32-28 "Jacob's Wrestling with God at Peniel")), signifying a transformation from the deceiver Jacob to a prince who had prevailed with God. Its use here emphasizes the spiritual weight and significance of his journey not just as an individual, but as the patriarch of God's chosen people, representing the nascent nation.

**Did Jacob doubt God's promise by leaving the Promised Land?**

Answer: Jacob's journey to Egypt was not an act of doubt but a response to divine providence and direct instruction. While leaving the Promised Land might seem counter-intuitive to the covenant, it was initiated by Joseph's invitation and, crucially, confirmed by God's explicit command and assurance in the verses immediately following ([Genesis 46:3-4](/genesis/46-3-4 "God's Assurance to Jacob at Beersheba")). His stop at Beersheba to offer sacrifices demonstrates his faith and desire for God's continued guidance, rather than a lack of trust in the promise of the land. He was following God's leading, even if it meant a temporary departure from Canaan for the preservation and growth of his family.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Jacob's journey to Egypt, initiated by divine providence and affirmed by his worship at Beersheba, profoundly foreshadows the greater redemptive journey of God's people and the ultimate provision found in Jesus Christ. Just as Jacob's family descended into Egypt for preservation during a severe famine, Christ, through His incarnation and descent into humanity, came to preserve and save His people from the spiritual famine and death caused by sin. The sacrifices Jacob offered at Beersheba, an act of seeking divine favor and reconciliation, point directly to the ultimate and perfect sacrifice of [Jesus Christ on the cross](/hebrews/9-26 "Jesus' Perfect Sacrifice"), who, as the [Lamb of God](/john/1-29 "John 1:29 - Jesus, the Lamb of God"), fulfilled all Old Testament sacrificial laws and established a new and eternal covenant. Through His atoning work, Christ provides true reconciliation and communion with God, making a way for us to approach the Father with confidence ([Hebrews/4-16](/hebrews/4-16 "Approach the Throne of Grace")). He is the true "Beersheba," the wellspring of living water ([John/4-10-14](/john/4-10-14 "Jesus, the Living Water")), where we meet God, receive assurance, and find spiritual sustenance for our own journeys of faith, leading us not to a temporary land but to an eternal inheritance in Him ([1_peter/1-3-5](/1_peter/1-3-5 "Our Incorruptible Inheritance")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 26:22

And he removed from thence, and digged another well; and for that they strove not: and he called the name of it Rehoboth; and he said, For now the LORD hath made room for us, and we shall be fruitful in the land.

Genesis 26:25

And he builded an altar there, and called upon the name of the LORD, and pitched his tent there: and there Isaac's servants digged a well.

Genesis 28:13

And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I [am] the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed;

Genesis 31:42

Except the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had been with me, surely thou hadst sent me away now empty. God hath seen mine affliction and the labour of my hands, and rebuked [thee] yesternight.

Genesis 28:10

¶ And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran.

Genesis 21:33

¶ And [Abraham] planted a grove in Beersheba, and called there on the name of the LORD, the everlasting God.

Genesis 21:31

Wherefore he called that place Beersheba; because there they sware both of them.