Genesis 47:10 (KJV)

What does Genesis 47:10 mean?

Genesis 47:10 closes Jacob’s meeting with Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt. Jacob gives Pharaoh a blessing as he leaves, bringing their meeting to an end with words of goodwill.

After speaking about his long and difficult life in verse 9, Jacob again addresses Pharaoh with a blessing. The phrase “went out from before Pharaoh” pictures Jacob leaving the ruler’s presence.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 47:10

• “blessed” — בָּרַךְ (barakh): The word can mean to bless or wish someone well. Here it describes Jacob’s parting words to Pharaoh, though the verse does not record their exact wording.
• “before” — פָּנִים (panim): This word often means “face” and can also refer to someone’s presence. Jacob’s departure is described as going out from the presence of Pharaoh.

Why Genesis 47:10 matters

• Jacob’s blessing frames the meeting at both ends. Genesis 47:7 says Jacob blessed Pharaoh when they met, and verse 10 says he blessed him again before leaving.
• Jacob speaks as a visitor, yet he gives the ruler a blessing. The verse places that gesture within a meeting made possible by Joseph’s position in Egypt.