What number verse is Genesis 46:34 in the Bible?

Genesis 46:34 is the 1,421st verse of the Bible. Counting straight through the King James canon — all 31,102 verses from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 — Genesis 46:34 sits at position 1,421.

46:3346:33

Genesis 46:34

Q: Why was shepherding considered an "abomination" to the Egyptians?

The term "abomination" (Hebrew: tôwʻêbah') signifies something deeply detestable or morally offensive. For the Egyptians, a settled, agrarian society with a complex religious system, nomadic shepherds were viewed with strong disdain for several reasons. Firstly, their nomadic lifestyle was perceived as uncivilized and disruptive to the Egyptians' highly organized agricultural practices. Secondly, shepherds might sacrifice animals, including cattle, which were revered or considered sacred by Egyptians, making their practices religiously offensive. Thirdly, the occupation was likely associated with lower social strata or even foreign invaders, such as the Hyksos, who had a pastoral background and had previously ruled parts of Egypt. This strong cultural and religious aversion provided a convenient and readily accepted reason for Pharaoh to keep the Hebrews separate in the land of Goshen, a strategic outcome desired by Joseph.

47:147:1

Translation

King James Version

That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

Ask

KJV (with Strong's)

That ye shall say ^H559, Thy servants ^H5650' trade ^H582 hath been about cattle ^H4735 from our youth ^H5271 even until now, both we, and also our fathers ^H1: that ye may dwell ^H3427 in the land ^H776 of Goshen ^H1657; for every shepherd ^{H7462 H6629} is an abomination ^H8441 unto the Egyptians ^H4714.

Ask

Complete Jewish Bible

tell him, 'Your servants have been keepers of livestock from our youth until now, both we and our ancestors.'This will ensure that you will live in the land of Goshen - for any shepherd is abhorrent to the Egyptians."

Ask

Berean Standard Bible

you are to say, ‘Your servants have raised livestock ever since our youth—both we and our fathers.’ Then you will be allowed to settle in the land of Goshen, since all shepherds are detestable to the Egyptians.”

Ask

American Standard Version

that ye shall say, Thy servants have been keepers of cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

Ask

World English Bible Messianic

that you shall say, ‘Your servants have been keepers of livestock from our youth even until now, both we, and our fathers:’ that you may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination to the Egyptians.”

Ask

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then ye shall say, Thy seruants are men occupied about cattell, from our childehood euen vnto this time, both we and our fathers: that yee may dwell in the lande of Goshen: for euery sheepe keeper is an abomination vnto the Egyptians.

Ask

Young's Literal Translation

that ye have said, Thy servants have been men of cattle from our youth, even until now, both we and our fathers, --in order that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen, for the abomination of the Egyptians is every one feeding a flock.'

Ask

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Genesis 46:34 records Joseph's strategic instruction to his brothers: to declare their lifelong occupation as shepherds to Pharaoh. This calculated move was designed to secure their settlement in the fertile land of Goshen, leveraging the Egyptians' cultural aversion to shepherds. Joseph's plan masterfully ensures the distinct and isolated preservation of Jacob's family, safeguarding them from assimilation and the pervasive famine, thereby laying the groundwork for their growth into the future nation of Israel.

CONTEXT

Literary Context: This verse is situated at a pivotal moment in the Genesis narrative, immediately following Joseph's emotional reunion with his father, Jacob, and the arrival of Jacob's entire household in Egypt. Joseph, now the second-in-command of Egypt, has orchestrated this migration due to the severe famine gripping the land. Chapters 45 and 46 detail the preparations for the family's journey and their arrival. Joseph's instructions in Genesis 46:31-34 are a crucial final step before Jacob and his sons are formally presented to Pharaoh. This strategic counsel highlights Joseph's wisdom and foresight, demonstrating his active role in ensuring the well-being and distinct identity of his family within a foreign land. The preceding verses emphasize the divine orchestration of these events, with God assuring Jacob of His presence and blessing in Egypt (e.g., Genesis 46:3-4).
Historical & Cultural Context: Ancient Egypt was a highly organized, agrarian society that placed great value on settled agriculture, monumental architecture, and a rigid social hierarchy. The Nile River was the lifeblood of their civilization, dictating their agricultural cycles and fostering a sedentary lifestyle. Nomadic peoples, particularly shepherds, were often viewed with suspicion, disdain, or even contempt. This aversion stemmed from several factors: their mobile lifestyle was disruptive to Egyptian settled life, their practices might involve the sacrifice of animals (like cattle) that Egyptians considered sacred or symbolic of deities, and they were often associated with foreign invaders or marginalized groups. The Hyksos, a Semitic people who had previously ruled parts of Egypt, were also associated with shepherding, which may have contributed to this prejudice. The land of Goshen, located in the eastern Nile Delta, was known for its rich pasturage, making it ideal for the Hebrews' large flocks and herds, while also providing a natural geographic buffer from the main Egyptian population centers.
Key Themes: Genesis 46:34 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of Divine Providence, as God sovereignly guides events and even human prejudices to fulfill His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, ensuring the preservation and growth of the nascent nation of Israel (e.g., Genesis 12:2). The verse also highlights the importance of Cultural Distinction and separation for God's chosen people, a theme that will become paramount during the Exodus and the giving of the Law, where Israel is called to be "a kingdom of priests and a holy nation" (Exodus 19:6). Furthermore, Joseph's wisdom exemplifies Strategic Leadership and discernment, demonstrating how human agency, guided by divine wisdom, can navigate complex socio-political landscapes to achieve God's purposes.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Key Word Analysis

shepherd (Hebrew, râʻâh', H7462): This primitive root means "to tend a flock," "to pasture it," or generally "to rule." In this context, it refers to the occupation of tending livestock, a central aspect of the Hebrew patriarchal lifestyle. The term highlights the fundamental difference in livelihood and cultural values between Jacob's family and the Egyptians, which Joseph strategically exploits.
abomination (Hebrew, tôwʻêbah', H8441): This feminine active participle signifies "something disgusting (morally)," "an abhorrence," or "especially idolatry or (concretely) an idol." Here, it powerfully conveys the intense cultural, social, and potentially religious detestation Egyptians held for shepherds. It's not merely a dislike but a deep-seated revulsion, making the declaration of their trade a highly effective diplomatic maneuver.
dwell (Hebrew, yâshab', H3427): A primitive root meaning "to sit down," "to remain," or "to settle." Joseph's ultimate goal in this instruction is to secure a permanent and distinct place for his family to "dwell" in Egypt, specifically in Goshen, ensuring their stability and growth away from the main Egyptian populace.

Verse Breakdown

"That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers:" Joseph instructs his brothers to explicitly state their ancestral occupation as herdsmen. This declaration emphasizes their deep-rooted connection to livestock, signifying a lifelong, generational commitment to this trade. It establishes their identity as distinct from the Egyptians and provides a clear reason for their need for vast grazing lands.
"that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen;" This clause reveals the immediate purpose of Joseph's strategy: to secure settlement in Goshen. Joseph knows Goshen is ideal due to its fertile pastures and its geographical isolation from the main centers of Egyptian population and culture. This placement is crucial for the family's physical sustenance and future growth.
"for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians." This final clause provides the critical rationale behind Joseph's instruction. It reveals his astute understanding of Egyptian cultural prejudices. By declaring themselves shepherds, Joseph ensures that Pharaoh will readily agree to settle them in a separate, isolated region, thereby avoiding cultural assimilation and potential conflict, and preserving the distinct identity of the nascent nation of Israel.

Literary Devices

The verse employs Strategic Diplomacy, as Joseph masterfully leverages existing cultural prejudices to achieve a desired outcome for his family. This isn't merely a factual statement but a calculated maneuver designed to manipulate Pharaoh's biases for the benefit of God's people. There is also an element of Irony at play: what is considered an "abomination" by the Egyptians becomes the very means by which God's chosen people are protected and allowed to flourish. Furthermore, the verse contains Foreshadowing, as the forced separation of the Hebrews in Goshen due to Egyptian aversion anticipates their later distinct identity as God's people, set apart from the nations, and also hints at the eventual oppression they will face in Egypt, which further solidifies their unique national identity.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Genesis 46:34 profoundly illustrates God's meticulous providence, demonstrating how He orchestrates even the cultural biases of a foreign nation to fulfill His divine plan for His covenant people. Joseph's wisdom, guided by divine insight, ensures the preservation and growth of Jacob's family, safeguarding them from assimilation into Egyptian polytheism and culture. This strategic separation in Goshen is crucial for maintaining the distinct identity of the lineage through whom the Messiah would come, preparing them to become a great nation as promised to Abraham. It underscores that God's faithfulness extends to providing practical means for His people's survival and spiritual integrity in a hostile world.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Genesis 46:34 offers profound insights for believers navigating a complex world. It reminds us that God is sovereign over all circumstances, even the prejudices and cultural norms of societies, and can use them for His redemptive purposes. Like Joseph, we are called to exercise wisdom and discernment in our interactions with the world, understanding its nuances and making strategic choices that protect our spiritual integrity and advance God's kingdom. This passage also powerfully underscores the importance of maintaining a distinct identity as God's people. While we are called to be "in the world," we are not to be "of the world" (John 17:14-16), and sometimes, a degree of separation or distinctness is necessary for our spiritual health, protection from corrupting influences, and preparation for God's greater plans for us. This distinction is not about isolation for isolation's sake, but about preserving our unique identity as those set apart for Christ.

Questions for Reflection

How might God be using seemingly negative or challenging circumstances in your life to position you for His greater purposes?
In what ways does your Christian identity call you to be distinct from the surrounding culture, and how can you maintain that distinction wisely?
How can you cultivate discernment and wisdom, like Joseph, to navigate complex situations in a way that honors God and benefits others?

FAQ

Why was shepherding considered an "abomination" to the Egyptians?

Answer: The term "abomination" (Hebrew: tôwʻêbah') signifies something deeply detestable or morally offensive. For the Egyptians, a settled, agrarian society with a complex religious system, nomadic shepherds were viewed with strong disdain for several reasons. Firstly, their nomadic lifestyle was perceived as uncivilized and disruptive to the Egyptians' highly organized agricultural practices. Secondly, shepherds might sacrifice animals, including cattle, which were revered or considered sacred by Egyptians, making their practices religiously offensive. Thirdly, the occupation was likely associated with lower social strata or even foreign invaders, such as the Hyksos, who had a pastoral background and had previously ruled parts of Egypt. This strong cultural and religious aversion provided a convenient and readily accepted reason for Pharaoh to keep the Hebrews separate in the land of Goshen, a strategic outcome desired by Joseph.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Genesis 46:34 directly concerns the preservation of Israel's lineage, it profoundly points forward to Christ in its demonstration of divine providence and the establishment of a distinct people through whom salvation would come. Just as Joseph, a type of Christ, strategically preserved his family in Goshen, ensuring the lineage from which the Messiah would descend, Christ, the ultimate Good Shepherd, gathers and preserves His flock, the Church. He sets His people apart from the world, calling them out of darkness into His marvelous light (1 Peter 2:9). Through His atoning work, Christ leads His people into a spiritual "Goshen"—a place of refuge, distinct identity, and spiritual nourishment, where they are nurtured and prepared for His eternal purposes. This divine segregation, not based on cultural prejudice but on spiritual redemption, ensures that His Church remains distinct and holy, ultimately fulfilling all the promises made to Abraham through His perfect sacrifice and the establishment of His everlasting kingdom (Hebrews 9:12).

Copy as

Commentary on Genesis 46 verses 28–34

28 ¶ And he sent Judah before him unto Joseph, to direct his face unto Goshen; and they came into the land of Goshen.

29 And Joseph made ready his chariot, and went up to meet Israel his father, to Goshen, and presented himself unto him; and he fell on his neck, and wept on his neck a good while.

30 And Israel said unto Joseph, Now let me die, since I have seen thy face, because thou art yet alive.

31 And Joseph said unto his brethren, and unto his father's house, I will go up, and shew Pharaoh, and say unto him, My brethren, and my father's house, which were in the land of Canaan, are come unto me;

32 And the men are shepherds, for their trade hath been to feed cattle; and they have brought their flocks, and their herds, and all that they have.

33 And it shall come to pass, when Pharaoh shall call you, and shall say, What is your occupation?

34 That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

I. II. Main points1. 2. Sub-points

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.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 28–34. Public domain.

Copy as

Ephrem the SyrianAD 373

COMMENTARY ON GENESIS 40:6

Joseph went out to meet his father with chariots and with many people. [Joseph] got down [from his horse] and bowed down to his father, and they wept on each other’s neck. Then Joseph commanded his brothers to say to Pharaoh, “We and our fathers are keepers of cattle,” so that they might dwell in Goshen and thus keep their distance from those who worship sheep and bulls.

John ChrysostomAD 407

HOMILIES ON GENESIS 65.9

Note the shrewdness with which Joseph advises them, not idly or to no purpose making these suggestions but anxious to put them in a more secure position and at the same time to ensure their assimilation among the Egyptians. You see, since they loathed and despised those who tended flocks for having no time for Egyptian wisdom, consequently he counsels them to make a pretense of their occupation so that he may plausibly apportion them the most attractive land and cause them to live in considerable prosperity.

Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.

Copy as

Continue studying Genesis 46:34 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.

Cross-References

Exodus 8:26
And Moses said, It is not meet so to do; for we shall sacrifice the abomination of the Egyptians to the LORD our God: lo, shall we sacrifice the abomination of the Egyptians before their eyes, and will they not stone us?
Genesis 43:32
And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves: because the Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that is an abomination unto the Egyptians.
Genesis 37:12
¶ And his brethren went to feed their father's flock in Shechem.
Genesis 46:32
And the men are shepherds, for their trade hath been to feed cattle; and they have brought their flocks, and their herds, and all that they have.
Genesis 30:35
And he removed that day the he goats that were ringstraked and spotted, and all the she goats that were speckled and spotted, and every one that had some white in it, and all the brown among the sheep, and gave them into the hand of his sons.
Genesis 45:10
And thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near unto me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and thy flocks, and thy herds, and all that thou hast:
Genesis 34:5
And Jacob heard that he had defiled Dinah his daughter: now his sons were with his cattle in the field: and Jacob held his peace until they were come.