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Commentary on Genesis 46 verses 28–34
We have here, I. The joyful meeting between Jacob and his son Joseph, in which observe,
1.Jacob's prudence in sending Judah before him to Joseph, to give him notice of his arrival in Goshen. This was a piece of respect owing to the government, under the protection of which these strangers had come to put themselves, Gen 46:28. We should be very careful not to give offence to any, especially not to the higher powers.
2.Joseph's filial respect to him. He went in his chariot to met him, and, in the interview, showed, (1.) How much he honoured him: He presented himself unto him. Note, It is the duty of children to reverence their parents, yea, though Providence, as to outward condition, has advanced them above their parents. (2.) How much he loved him. Time did not wear out the sense of his obligations, but his tears which he shed abundantly upon his father's neck, for joy to see him, were real indications of the sincere and strong affection he had for him. See how near sorrow and joy are to each other in this world, when tears serve for the expression of both. In the other world weeping will be restrained to sorrow only; in heaven there is perfect joy, but no tears of joy: all tears, even those, shall there be wiped away, because the joys there are, as no joys are here, without any alloy. When Joseph embraced Benjamin he wept upon his neck, but when he embraced his father he wept upon his neck a good while; his brother Benjamin was dear, but his father Jacob must be dearer.
3.Jacob's great satisfaction in this meeting: Now let me die, Gen 46:30. Not but that it was further desirable to live with Joseph, and to see his honour and usefulness; but he had so much pleasure and satisfaction in this first meeting that he thought it too much to desire or expect any more in this world, where our comforts must always be imperfect. Jacob wished to die immediately, and lived seventeen years longer, which, as our lives go now, is a considerable part of a man's age. Note, Death will not always come just when we call for it, whether in a passion of sorrow or in a passion of joy. Our times are in God's hand, and not in our own; we must die just when God pleases, and not either just when we are surfeited with the pleasures of life or just when we are overwhelmed with its griefs.
II. Joseph's prudent care concerning his brethren's settlement. It was justice to Pharaoh to let him know that such a colony had come to settle in his dominions. Note, If others repose a confidence in us, we must not be so base and disingenuous as to abuse it by imposing upon them. If Jacob and his family should come to be a charge to the Egyptians, yet it should never be said that they came among them clandestinely and by stealth. Thus Joseph took care to pay his respects to Pharaoh, Gen 46:31. But how shall he dispose of his brethren? Time was when they were contriving to get rid of him; now he is contriving to settle them to their satisfaction and advantage: This is rendering good for evil. Now, 1. He would have them to live by themselves, separate as much as might be from the Egyptians, in the land of Goshen, which lay nearest to Canaan, and which perhaps was more thinly peopled by the Egyptians, and well furnished with pastures for cattle. He desired they might live separately, that they might be in the less danger both of being infected by the vices of the Egyptians and of being insulted by the malice of the Egyptians. Shepherds, it seems, were an abomination to the Egyptians, that is, they looked upon them with contempt, and scorned to converse with them; and he would not send for his brethren to Egypt to be tramped upon. And yet, 2. He would have them to continue shepherds, and not to be ashamed to own that as their occupation before Pharaoh. He could have employed them under himself in the corn-trade, or perhaps, by his interest in the king, might have procured places for them at court or in the army, and some of them, at least, were deserving enough; but such preferments would have exposed them to the envy of the Egyptians, and would have tempted them to forget Canaan and the promise made unto their fathers; therefore he contrives to continue them in their old employment. Note, (1.) An honest calling is no disparagement, nor ought we to account it so either in ourselves or in our relations, but rather reckon it a shame to be idle, or to have nothing to do. (2.) It is generally best for people to abide in the callings that they have been bred to, and used to, Co1 7:24. Whatever employment or condition God, in his providence, has allotted for us, let us accommodate ourselves to it, and satisfy ourselves with it, and not mind high things. It is better to be the credit of a mean post than the shame of a high one.
(v. 28) But Judah was sent ahead of him to Joseph, to meet him in the city of Heroum in the land of Ramesse. In Hebrew, there is no city called Heroum, nor a land called Ramesse, but only Gesen. Some Jews assert that Gesen is now called Thebaid. And what follows afterwards: He gave them the best land in Egypt, in Ramesse, which they believe to be the village called Arsenoites in ancient times.
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SUMMARY
Genesis 46:28 marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Jacob's migration to Egypt, detailing the strategic dispatch of Judah ahead of the family to meet Joseph. This preparatory act was crucial for receiving specific instructions regarding their settlement in Goshen, a fertile region uniquely suited for their pastoral lifestyle. The verse underscores God's meticulous providence in orchestrating the safe arrival and distinct placement of His covenant people, setting the stage for the highly anticipated reunion between Jacob and Joseph and the subsequent growth of Israel into a nation.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 46:28 details the strategic foresight exercised by Jacob and Joseph in the final leg of the family's migration: "And he sent Judah before him unto Joseph, to direct his face unto Goshen; and they came into the land of Goshen." This verse is not merely a logistical note but a significant narrative detail, highlighting key relationships and divine orchestration.
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices. Foreshadowing is evident in Jacob's choice of Judah. This act subtly elevates Judah's status, hinting at his future leadership role and the prophetic blessing he would receive in Genesis 49:8-12, which identifies his lineage as the source of kingship and the ultimate Messiah. The specific mention of "Goshen" functions as Symbolism, representing a place of divine provision, protection, and separation. It is a sanctuary where God's people can flourish and maintain their distinct identity amidst a foreign culture. The narrative also exhibits Narrative Progression, meticulously detailing the final, crucial step in the family's journey, building anticipation for the long-awaited reunion between Jacob and Joseph, and setting the stage for the unfolding drama of Israel's sojourn and eventual exodus from Egypt.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 46:28 is a powerful testament to God's meticulous and unwavering providence. The entire sequence, from the famine to Joseph's rise to power and the strategic settlement in Goshen, demonstrates God's sovereign hand orchestrating events to preserve His covenant people and fulfill His promises. This verse highlights the practical outworking of divine guidance, where human action (Jacob sending Judah, Joseph directing) aligns with God's overarching plan. It underscores that even in challenging circumstances like a severe famine, God is actively working to ensure the survival and flourishing of His chosen lineage, preparing them for their destiny as a great nation.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 46:28 offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. It reminds us that God's providence is not merely a grand, abstract concept, but extends to the practical, logistical details of our lives. Just as Jacob sent Judah to secure a clear path and direction, we are called to seek wise counsel, make diligent preparations, and trust in God's guidance when navigating significant transitions or entering new phases of life. This passage encourages us to recognize that God often works through human agents, raising up unexpected leaders and using individuals in ways that might not align with conventional expectations, all for the advancement of His sovereign plan. Furthermore, the strategic placement in Goshen highlights the importance of intentional community and maintaining a distinct identity as God's people in a world that often seeks to assimilate us. We are to seek "Goshens" – places or communities where we can thrive spiritually, grow in faith, and remain set apart for God's purposes, even amidst challenging cultural landscapes.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Judah chosen to go before Jacob instead of an older brother?
Answer: Judah's selection by Jacob was a significant indicator of his growing trustworthiness, maturity, and leadership within the family. While Reuben was the firstborn, and Simeon and Levi had demonstrated impulsive and violent tendencies in the past (Genesis 34:25-31), Judah had shown remarkable responsibility and a willingness to intercede for his family, particularly in the critical matter of Benjamin's freedom (Genesis 44:18-34). This choice by Jacob further solidified Judah's emerging prominence, foreshadowing his future role as the ancestor of the royal line from which the Messiah would come (Genesis 49:10).
What was the significance of the land of Goshen for the Israelites?
Answer: The land of Goshen held multifaceted significance for the Israelites. Economically, it was a highly fertile region, ideal for pasturing Jacob's large flocks and herds, ensuring their economic sustenance and allowing them to prosper. More importantly, its strategic location in the eastern Nile Delta provided a crucial separation from the main Egyptian populace. This geographical distinction allowed the Israelites to maintain their distinct cultural and religious identity, preventing immediate assimilation into Egyptian polytheistic customs and practices (Genesis 46:34). This separation was vital for their development as a unique people set apart for God's purposes, enabling them to grow into a numerous nation as part of God's covenant plan, as seen later in Exodus 1:7.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The strategic preservation of Jacob's family in Goshen, facilitated by Judah's leadership and Joseph's administrative power, is a crucial step in God's unfolding redemptive plan, directly pointing to Christ. The very survival and flourishing of the nascent nation of Israel in Egypt ensured the continuity of the covenant line through which the Messiah would ultimately come. Judah's emerging leadership in Genesis 46:28 foreshadows his pivotal role as the progenitor of the royal lineage from which Jesus, the King of Kings, would descend (Genesis 49:10; Matthew 1:2-3). God's meticulous providence in directing His people to a place of safety and growth in Goshen underscores His unwavering commitment to bring forth the Savior. Just as Goshen provided a physical refuge and sustenance for Israel, Christ offers ultimate spiritual refuge and provision for all who believe, leading them into a land of true rest and eternal inheritance (Hebrews 4:9-10; John 10:9). He is the ultimate "director" of His people's path, guiding them to their spiritual Goshen, a place of abundant life and communion with God (John 14:6).