Exodus 1:3 (KJV)

What does Exodus 1:3 mean?

Exodus 1:3 lists three of the sons of Jacob—Issachar, Zebulun, and Benjamin—who came to Egypt with their families. This verse is part of a genealogy that names the descendants of Jacob who moved to Egypt during the time of Joseph.

The verse appears in the opening section of Exodus, where the writer is recounting the family members of Jacob (also called Israel) who settled in Egypt. This list sets the stage for the story of how the Israelites became a large nation while living in Egypt, which eventually led to their enslavement and the events of the Exodus.

The Hebrew behind Exodus 1:3

• יִשָּׂשכָר (Yissaskar, "Issachar"): This name is often understood to mean "he will bring a reward" or "there is recompense." Issachar was one of Jacob's sons by Leah, and his descendants became one of the tribes of Israel.
• זְבוּלוּן (Zevulun, "Zebulun"): The name Zebulun may carry the sense of "dwelling" or "honor." Zebulun was also a son of Leah, and his tribe settled in the northern part of the land later on.
• בִּנְיָמִין (Binyamin, "Benjamin"): Benjamin means "son of the right hand" or "son of the south." He was the youngest son of Jacob, born to Rachel, and his tribe played a significant role in later Israelite history.

Why Exodus 1:3 matters

• This verse helps clarify the family structure of the Israelites at the time they entered Egypt, showing that all the tribes trace back to specific sons of Jacob.
• Listing these names emphasizes the historical roots of the nation of Israel and connects the Exodus story to the earlier narratives in Genesis.
• The careful naming of each son underlines the unity and shared ancestry of the people who would later experience oppression and deliverance together.