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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Genesis 46:28–34. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
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.
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Summary
Genesis 46:33 captures a pivotal moment in the unfolding narrative of Jacob's family entering Egypt, as Joseph, with remarkable foresight, prepares his brothers for their imminent encounter with Pharaoh. This verse anticipates the king's crucial inquiry into their livelihood, a strategic question that Joseph leverages to secure a distinct and separate settlement for his family, thereby preserving their unique identity and positioning them for God's larger redemptive plan for the nascent nation of Israel.
Context
Literary Context
This verse immediately precedes the actual meeting between Jacob's family and Pharaoh, serving as Joseph's final, critical instruction to his brothers. The preceding verses (Genesis 46:28-32) detail Joseph's reunion with his father Jacob in Goshen and his subsequent plan to present five of his brothers to Pharaoh. Joseph's meticulous planning is evident, as he not only arranges for their settlement but also strategically prepares their response to Pharaoh's anticipated question about their occupation, setting the stage for the narrative in Genesis 47. This foresight ensures the family's distinct identity and future preservation.
Historical & Cultural Context
Ancient Egypt was a highly structured society with a sophisticated administrative system. Upon the arrival of foreign groups, it was customary for the Pharaoh or his officials to inquire about their background and skills to determine their place within Egyptian society and economy. Agriculture was the backbone of Egypt's economy, and farmers were highly esteemed. Shepherds, however, were generally viewed with disdain, possibly due to their nomadic lifestyle which contrasted sharply with settled Egyptian life, their perceived uncleanliness, or perhaps even their association with foreign invaders like the Hyksos (though the Hyksos period came later). Joseph's knowledge of this cultural aversion to shepherding, particularly in the fertile Nile Delta region, was key to his strategy to secure the land of Goshen for his family, a region well-suited for pasturage but geographically distinct from the main agricultural centers.
Key Themes
Genesis 46:33 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis. It highlights Divine Providence, demonstrating how God orchestrates human events, even seemingly mundane administrative inquiries, to fulfill His covenant promises to Abraham regarding a great nation (Genesis 12:2-3). Joseph's God-given Wisdom is a prominent theme throughout his story, and here it is applied strategically to ensure the Preservation of Israel's Identity. By securing a separate living space, Joseph prevents the assimilation of Jacob's family into Egyptian culture, which was crucial for their development as a distinct people and for the future lineage of the Messiah. This act underscores the theme of Separation for Sanctification, where God's people are set apart for His purposes.
Exposition and Analysis
Genesis 46:33 reveals Joseph's astute preparation of his family for their critical encounter with Pharaoh, focusing on the specific question the king would pose regarding their livelihood. This seemingly simple inquiry carries profound implications for the future of Jacob's descendants.
Key Word Analysis
From Egyptian derivation, this term (H6547) refers to the general title of Egyptian kings. In this context, it signifies the supreme authority of Egypt, whose decision would determine the fate and settlement of Jacob's family. Joseph's anticipation of Pharaoh's direct involvement underscores the gravity and formality of the impending meeting.
This primitive root (H7121) means "to call out to," "address by name," or "invite." When Pharaoh "calls" Joseph's family, it implies a formal summons, an official audience that requires a prepared and respectful response. It's not a casual invitation but a command from the highest authority, necessitating careful adherence to protocol.
Derived from the verb "to do" or "to make," this noun (H4639) broadly means "an action," "activity," "business," or "work." Pharaoh's question "What is your occupation?" is a direct inquiry into their primary source of income and daily activity. The significance lies not just in the word itself, but in the specific answer Joseph intends them to give (as revealed in Genesis 46:34), which will strategically set them apart from Egyptian society.
Verse Breakdown
"And it shall come to pass, when Pharaoh shall call you"
This clause sets the scene for an inevitable and formal summons. Joseph understands that Pharaoh, as the ruler, will naturally want to meet and assess these new arrivals, especially given Joseph's high position and the large size of his family. The "calling" signifies an official audience, demanding a prepared and respectful demeanor from Jacob's sons.
"and shall say"
This anticipates the direct verbal interaction. Joseph knows Pharaoh will not merely observe but will engage them in conversation, specifically seeking information about their identity and purpose in Egypt. This highlights Joseph's intimate knowledge of Egyptian court protocol and Pharaoh's administrative approach.
"What is your occupation?"
This is the core of Pharaoh's anticipated inquiry. It's a standard question for new immigrants, designed to ascertain their skills, their potential contribution to Egyptian society, and thus, their appropriate place within the land. For Joseph, this question is not merely administrative; it is the strategic opening he needs to secure a separate and protected dwelling for his family, leveraging Egyptian cultural biases to their advantage.
Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Genesis 46:33 is Anticipation. Joseph's foreknowledge of Pharaoh's question demonstrates his strategic brilliance and deep understanding of Egyptian customs. This Anticipation builds narrative tension, as the reader is made aware of the critical nature of the upcoming interaction and the importance of the family's prepared response. There is also an element of Foreshadowing, as this strategic preparation directly leads to the settlement in Goshen, which in turn sets the stage for the growth of Israel and their eventual enslavement and exodus. Furthermore, one could argue for subtle Irony, as Joseph plans to use the Egyptians' disdain for shepherds as the very means to secure a privileged, separate existence for his family, turning a potential cultural barrier into a divine advantage.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Genesis 46:33 serves as a powerful testament to God's meticulous providence, working through human wisdom and strategy to fulfill His divine purposes. Joseph's careful preparation of his family for Pharaoh's inquiry is not merely an act of human prudence but a divinely enabled foresight that ensures the preservation of the covenant people. This strategic move to secure a distinct settlement in Goshen was crucial for maintaining Israel's unique identity, preventing their assimilation into polytheistic Egyptian culture, and allowing them to grow into the numerous nation God promised Abraham. It underscores that God's plan unfolds even through the seemingly mundane details of administrative questions and cultural norms, guiding His people towards their ultimate destiny.
Reflection and Application
Genesis 46:33 offers timeless insights into the importance of wisdom, preparation, and discernment in navigating life's critical junctures. Just as Joseph meticulously prepared his family for a pivotal encounter, believers today are called to approach significant decisions and interactions with thoughtful foresight, seeking God's guidance through prayer, scripture, and wise counsel. Understanding the context and audience, as Joseph understood Pharaoh and Egyptian culture, is crucial for effective communication and for living out our faith in a complex world. This verse also powerfully reminds us that God's sovereign hand is at work in every detail of our lives, even in seemingly ordinary questions about our "occupation" or daily routines. He uses circumstances and individuals, often in ways we don't immediately perceive, to advance His grand redemptive purposes. Joseph's strategy to maintain his family's distinct identity in Egypt serves as a profound call for believers to live as a peculiar people, set apart by God's grace, while engaging with the world around them, ensuring our values and practices reflect our heavenly citizenship rather than conforming to worldly patterns.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Pharaoh's question about occupation so important, and why did Joseph's answer matter so much?
Pharaoh's question, "What is your occupation?" was a standard administrative inquiry for new arrivals in Egypt, designed to ascertain their skills and determine their place within society. For Joseph, this question was profoundly important because it presented a strategic opportunity to secure a distinct and separate existence for his family. Joseph knew that shepherding, while essential for the nomadic Hebrews, was generally considered an "abomination" or at least a low-status occupation by the Egyptians, who were primarily agriculturalists and settled city-dwellers. By having his family declare themselves shepherds, Joseph provided Pharaoh with a legitimate, culturally acceptable reason to grant them a separate dwelling place in Goshen, a fertile pastureland away from the main Egyptian populace. This strategic separation was vital for preserving the unique cultural and religious identity of Jacob's family, preventing their assimilation into polytheistic Egyptian society, and allowing them to grow into the numerous nation God had promised to Abraham, laying the groundwork for their future as the chosen people of Israel.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The strategic preservation of Israel's distinct identity and lineage in Genesis 46:33, through Joseph's divinely inspired wisdom, finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The meticulous care taken to set apart Jacob's family in Goshen ensured the continuity of the covenant line through which the Messiah would eventually come. Just as Joseph secured a physical "Goshen" for his family, protecting them from assimilation and ensuring their growth, Christ establishes His church as a distinct, set-apart people, called out of the world and into His kingdom. The Lord Jesus, our ultimate Shepherd, gathers His flock, providing spiritual refuge and a unique identity rooted in Him, distinct from the world's systems and values (John 10:11). The physical preservation of Israel foreshadows the spiritual preservation and eternal inheritance secured for all who are "in Christ" (Ephesians 1:3-14). Moreover, Christ's work on the cross ultimately makes us a "royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession" (1 Peter 2:9), fulfilling the ancient promise of a distinct people set apart for God, a spiritual reality prefigured by Joseph's foresight in Genesis.