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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 Joshua 24:29–33.
This book, which began with triumphs, here ends with funerals, by which all the glory of man is stained. We have here 1. The burial of Joseph, Jos 24:32. He died about 200 years before in Egypt, but gave commandment concerning his bones, that they should not rest in their grave until Israel had rest in the land of promise; now therefore the children of Israel, who had brought this coffin full of bones with them out of Egypt, carried it along with them in all their marches through the wilderness (the two tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, it is probable, taking particular care of it), and kept it in their camp till Canaan was perfectly reduced, now at last they deposited it in that piece of ground which his father gave him near Shechem, Gen 48:22. Probably it was upon this occasion that Joshua called for all Israel to meet him at Shechem (v. 1), to attend Joseph's coffin to the grave there, so that the sermon in this chapter served both for Joseph's funeral sermon and his own farewell sermon; and if it was, as is supposed, in the last year of his life, the occasion might very well remind him of his own death being at hand, for he was not just at the same age that his illustrious ancestor Joseph had arrived at when he died, 110 years old; compare Jos 24:29 with Gen 50:26. 2. The death and burial of Joshua, Jos 24:29, Jos 24:30. We are not told how long he lived after the coming of Israel into Canaan. Dr. Lightfoot thinks it was about seventeen years; but the Jewish chronologers generally say it was about twenty-seven or twenty-eight years. He is here called the servant of the Lord, the same title that was given to Moses (Jos 1:1) when mention was made of his death; for, though Joshua was in many respects inferior to Moses, yet in this he was equal to him, that, according as his work was, he approved himself a diligent and faithful servant of God. And he that traded with his two talents had the same approbation that he had who traded with his five. Well done, good and faithful servant. Joshua's burying-place is here said to be on the north side of the hill Gaash, or the quaking hill; the Jews say it was so called because it trembled at the burial of Joshua, to upbraid the people of Israel with their stupidity in that they did not lament the death of that great and good man as they ought to have done. Thus at the death of Christ, our Joshua, the earth quaked. The learned bishop Patrick observes that there is no mention of any days of mourning being observed for Joshua, as there were for Moses and Aaron, in which, he says, St. Hierom and others of the fathers think there is a mystery, namely, that under the law, when life and immortality were not brought to so clear a light as they are now, they had reason to mourn and weep for the death of their friends; but now that Jesus, our Joshua, has opened the kingdom of heaven, we may rather rejoice. 3. The death and burial of Eleazar the chief priest, who, it is probable, died about the same time that Joshua did, as Aaron in the same year with Moses, Jos 24:33. The Jews say that Eleazar, a little before he died, called the elders together, and gave them a charge as Joshua had done. He was buried in a hill that pertained to Phinehas his son, which came to him, not by descent, for then it would have pertained to his father first, nor had the priests any cities in Mount Ephraim, but either it fell to him by marriage, as the Jews conjecture, or it was freely bestowed upon him, to build a country seat on, by some pious Israelite that was well-affected to the priesthood, for it is here said to have been given him; and there he buried his dear father. 4. A general idea given us of the state of Israel at this time, Jos 24:31. While Joshua lived, religion was kept up among them under his care and influence; but soon after he and his contemporaries died it went to decay, so much oftentimes does one head hold up: how well is it for the gospel church that Christ, our Joshua, is still with it, by his Spirit, and will be always, even unto the end of the world!
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Summary
Joshua 24:32 meticulously records the long-anticipated burial of Joseph's bones in Shechem, a profound act that culminates centuries of divine promise and human faithfulness. This pivotal event, occurring as Joshua's leadership concludes and the nation reaffirms its covenant with Yahweh, powerfully symbolizes the definitive fulfillment of God's ancient pledge regarding the land of Canaan, solidifying Israel's inheritance and establishing a tangible, enduring link between the foundational faith of their patriarchs and their present possession of the Promised Land.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is strategically positioned at the very end of the book of Joshua, serving as a vital postscript to the era of conquest and settlement. It immediately follows Joshua's final, poignant address to the assembled tribes at Shechem and their solemn renewal of the covenant with Yahweh, as detailed in Joshua 24:1-28. The burial of Joseph's bones, alongside the subsequent accounts of Joshua's death and burial (Joshua 24:29-31) and Eleazar's death (Joshua 24:33), provides a sense of profound closure and transition. It marks the conclusion of the foundational generation that entered Canaan, setting the stage for the subsequent period of the Judges. The act of burying Joseph's bones here underscores the unwavering faithfulness of God and the people to ancient promises, offering a powerful final image of Israel's establishment and rootedness in the land.
Historical & Cultural Context
Shechem held immense historical and spiritual significance for the nascent nation of Israel. It was the very first place in Canaan where Abraham built an altar to the Lord upon his initial entry into the land, marking a foundational moment in the patriarchal narrative. Later, Jacob settled near Shechem and famously purchased a specific parcel of ground from the sons of Hamor, the father of Shechem, for "an hundred pieces of silver" (Genesis 33:19). This purchase established a legitimate, ancestral claim to a piece of the land, long before the full conquest. The cultural practice of carrying ancestral bones signified a deep respect for lineage, a tangible connection to one's heritage, and a profound belief in the continuity of family and land. Joseph's dying request to be buried in Canaan (Genesis 50:25) was an act of profound faith in God's promise to bring Israel back to the land, and its fulfillment centuries later was a powerful public declaration of God's faithfulness and Israel's rightful, divinely ordained possession.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully encapsulates several overarching themes found throughout the Pentateuch and the book of Joshua. Firstly, it highlights the Fulfillment of Divine Promise and Human Oath. Joseph's dying request, made centuries before, and the oath sworn by the Israelites to carry his bones out of Egypt (Exodus 13:19) are finally realized. This demonstrates God's unwavering faithfulness to His covenant promises, even across generations, and the enduring commitment of His people. Secondly, it underscores the theme of Faith and Legacy. Joseph's request was an act of profound faith, believing God would indeed bring his descendants into the Promised Land, a faith commended in Hebrews 11:22. His burial in Canaan serves as a tangible symbol of hope and a vital link between the patriarchs and the settled nation. Thirdly, the verse emphasizes Inheritance and Possession, as the land became the "inheritance of the children of Joseph," signifying that the Israelites were truly home and had received their allotted portions in the Promised Land. Finally, it illustrates the Continuity of God's Redemptive Plan, weaving together the narrative threads from Jacob's original land purchase, Joseph's dying wish, the Exodus, and the final settlement under Joshua, demonstrating God's continuous, sovereign work through history.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
The term "bones" (H6106, עֶצֶם, ʻetsem') refers to the physical remains of Joseph. This is not merely a symbolic gesture but the literal, tangible fulfillment of an oath. The Strong's definition highlights "strength" and "selfsame," suggesting that the bones represent the very essence and enduring identity of Joseph, whose faith continued to speak even after his death. In ancient Near Eastern culture, the proper burial of one's ancestors was extremely important, connecting the living to their heritage and the land. Joseph's specific instruction to carry his bones, rather than just his memory, underscored his profound faith in a future where his descendants would possess the land of Canaan, making his physical presence a perpetual reminder of God's promise.
The word "children" (H1121, בֵּן, bên') appears three times in this verse ("children of Israel," "sons of Hamor," "children of Joseph"). As per the Strong's data, bên signifies a "son (as a builder of the family name), in the widest sense (of literal and figurative relationship, including grandson, subject, nation, quality or condition, etc.)." This repetition emphasizes the generational continuity and the familial aspect of God's covenant. The "children of Israel" faithfully carry out the oath of their ancestor Joseph, while the "sons of Hamor" represent the original inhabitants from whom Jacob legitimately acquired the land. Ultimately, the land becomes the "inheritance of the children of Joseph," underscoring the fulfillment of a promise to a specific lineage within the larger family of Israel.
The term "inheritance" (H5159, נַחֲלָה, nachălâh') signifies "something inherited, i.e. (abstractly) occupancy, or (concretely) an heirloom; generally an estate, patrimony or portion." This word is central to the theological message of the verse, as it encapsulates the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to Abraham's descendants as an everlasting possession. The burial of Joseph's bones in this specific parcel of ground, which then officially became the "inheritance of the children of Joseph," solidifies the idea that the land was not merely conquered territory but a divinely bestowed patrimony, a permanent legacy for the tribes of Israel.
Verse Breakdown
"And the bones of Joseph, which the children of Israel brought up out of Egypt,"
This clause immediately connects the present moment in Joshua to the distant past, highlighting the faithful adherence of the Israelites, across generations, to the solemn oath made to Joseph (Genesis 50:25) and carried out by Moses at the Exodus (Exodus 13:19). The "bones" represent the enduring physical testament to Joseph's faith and the long, arduous journey of the nation.
"buried they in Shechem,"
This specifies the location of the burial, emphasizing the immense historical and spiritual significance of Shechem. It was a place of patriarchal history, covenant renewal, and central importance within the newly settled land. This act signifies the culmination of a centuries-long journey and the final resting place for a revered ancestor, grounding Israel's presence in the land.
"in a parcel of ground which Jacob bought of the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem for an hundred pieces of silver:"
This part of the verse provides the crucial historical and legal precedent for the burial site. It links the present generation directly to Jacob, the patriarch, and his legitimate purchase of land in Canaan (Genesis 33:19). The mention of the specific price ("an hundred pieces of silver") underscores the validity and permanence of this claim, reinforcing Israel's right to the land not only by divine promise but also by ancient, documented transaction.
"and it became the inheritance of the children of Joseph."
This concluding phrase solidifies the outcome and theological significance of the burial. The land, initially purchased by Jacob, now officially becomes the tribal inheritance of Joseph's descendants (Ephraim and Manasseh). This confirms the definitive fulfillment of God's promise of land to Abraham's seed and the successful division and possession of the Promised Land by the tribes of Israel, marking their permanent settlement.
Literary Devices
Joshua 24:32 masterfully employs several literary devices to convey its profound message and provide a fitting conclusion to the book. Symbolism is paramount, with Joseph's bones serving as a powerful symbol of enduring faith, the unwavering fulfillment of divine promises, and a tangible link connecting the patriarchal era to the settled nation. The very act of carrying the bones across generations and finally burying them in the Promised Land creates a powerful narrative inclusio, providing a satisfying closure to a long-standing narrative thread that began in Genesis and continued through Exodus. The mention of Shechem, a site of significant patriarchal activity and recent covenant renewal, functions as allusion, drawing the reader's mind back to key moments in Israel's history and reinforcing the continuity of God's redemptive plan. Furthermore, the meticulous detail of Jacob's original purchase and the "hundred pieces of silver" adds a layer of verisimilitude and legal weight, emphasizing the legitimacy of Israel's claim to the land and the absolute faithfulness of God to His word. The precise historical details ground the theological truth in concrete reality.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Joshua 24:32 stands as a profound testament to God's unwavering faithfulness and the enduring power of faith across generations. It underscores that God's promises, though they may take centuries to unfold, are ultimately fulfilled with precision and care, demonstrating His steadfast character. The burial of Joseph's bones in the very land promised to Abraham, and specifically in a plot purchased by Jacob, powerfully demonstrates the continuity of God's covenant with His people. It highlights that the inheritance of the land was not merely a military conquest but a divine gift, rooted in ancient promises and secured by the faithfulness of both God and His people in keeping oaths. This verse serves as a historical anchor, reminding Israel of their divine heritage and the long, faithful journey that brought them to their promised rest, emphasizing that God's plan unfolds perfectly in His timing.
Reflection and Application
Joshua 24:32 offers a rich tapestry of lessons for contemporary believers, inviting us to deepen our trust in God's sovereign plan. It is a powerful reminder that God is a promise-keeping God, whose faithfulness spans generations and transcends the limitations of human lifespans. Just as the Israelites faithfully honored Joseph's ancient request, we are called to be people of integrity, faithful in fulfilling our commitments to God and to one another, understanding that our actions can have long-lasting, even generational, impact. Joseph's profound faith, enduring for centuries after his death, encourages us to cultivate a long-term perspective in our own walk with God, trusting that His purposes will prevail even when the path is long or unclear, and when immediate gratification is absent. This verse also speaks to the importance of honoring the spiritual legacy of those who have gone before us, drawing strength and inspiration from their faith journeys and recognizing that we are part of a larger, ongoing narrative of God's redemptive work. It challenges us to consider what kind of legacy of faith we are building for future generations, and how our present faithfulness contributes to the unfolding of God's kingdom and the spiritual inheritance of those who will follow.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Joseph buried in Shechem specifically, and not elsewhere in the Promised Land?
Joseph's burial in Shechem was deeply significant for several reasons, as highlighted in the verse itself. Firstly, it fulfilled his dying request that his bones be carried up from Egypt to the land God promised to his ancestors (Genesis 50:25). Secondly, Shechem held immense historical and theological importance for Israel. It was the first place in Canaan where Abraham built an altar to the Lord, marking a foundational moment. More directly, it was a parcel of ground that Joseph's father, Jacob, had legitimately purchased from the sons of Hamor for "an hundred pieces of silver" (Genesis 33:19). This established an ancient, legal claim to that specific plot. Burying Joseph there, at the site of the covenant renewal under Joshua, powerfully underscored Israel's rightful inheritance of the land and connected the present generation directly to their patriarchal roots and God's enduring promises.
What is meant by "an hundred pieces of silver" in this verse?
The "hundred pieces of silver" refers to a specific unit of currency or weight known as a qesitah (קְשִׂיטָה). While its precise value in modern terms is uncertain, it was a recognized standard of measurement and value in ancient times, perhaps equivalent to a lamb or a specific weight of precious metal. The mention of this exact amount in both Genesis 33:19 and Joshua 24:32 serves to emphasize the legitimacy and legality of Jacob's original land purchase. It highlights that Israel's claim to the land was not only by divine decree but also by a valid, documented transaction, reinforcing their rightful possession of the territory. This detail underscores the meticulous nature of God's plan and the historical grounding of Israel's claim.
What is the overall significance of Joseph's bones being carried and buried in the Promised Land?
The journey and burial of Joseph's bones represent a profound act of faith and a powerful symbol of God's faithfulness. Joseph's dying request was an act of profound faith, believing that God would indeed bring his descendants out of Egypt and into the Promised Land, even centuries after his death (Hebrews 11:22). The Israelites' diligent carrying of his bones throughout the Exodus (Exodus 13:19) and their eventual burial in Canaan demonstrated their commitment to an ancient oath and their trust in God's promises. This act served as a tangible, physical reminder to every generation that God fulfills His word, that the land was truly theirs, and that the covenant promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were being realized. It provided a sense of closure and continuity, linking the foundational faith of the patriarchs to the settled nation of Israel, and serving as a perpetual monument to God's enduring covenant.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The long journey and eventual burial of Joseph's bones in the Promised Land serve as a powerful type and foreshadowing of the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises in Jesus Christ. Joseph's unwavering faith in God's future visitation and the eventual inheritance of the land (Hebrews 11:22) points to the greater hope of the believer in Christ. Just as Joseph's bodily presence was a tangible link to the promised land, so the bodily resurrection of Jesus is the ultimate guarantee of our spiritual inheritance and future resurrection (1-corinthians/15-20). Christ is the true "inheritance" for believers, far surpassing any earthly parcel of ground, as He grants us access to the heavenly places and eternal life (Ephesians 1:11-14). The long wait for Joseph's burial, spanning centuries, mirrors the patient expectation of the Messiah, whose coming brought about the definitive fulfillment of all God's redemptive promises. In Christ, the true Seed of Abraham, all the promises of God find their "Yes" and "Amen" (2-corinthians/1-20), granting believers a spiritual inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for us (1-peter/1-3-5). The final resting place of Joseph in the promised land, secured by an ancient purchase, points to the eternal rest and secure dwelling place believers have in Christ, purchased not with silver, but with His own precious blood (1-peter/1-18-19).