Genesis 47:31 (KJV)

What does Genesis 47:31 mean?

Genesis 47:31 describes Jacob (called Israel) asking his son Joseph to swear an oath to bury him in Canaan, not Egypt, and Joseph agrees. After Joseph swears, Israel bows in a gesture of worship or deep respect while still on his bed.

Jacob, nearing death in Egypt, is speaking to Joseph, his son who holds a high position there. Jacob wants assurance that he will be buried with his ancestors in the land God promised, so he asks Joseph to make a solemn promise. The act of bowing at the bed's head shows Jacob’s reverence, possibly toward God, in response to Joseph’s oath.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 47:31

• בָּד (miṭṭāh, "bed"): The word for "bed" here can also mean "staff" in Hebrew, leading to different interpretations in some translations. In this context, it likely refers to Jacob’s bed, emphasizing his frailty and old age.
• שָׁבַע (shāva‘, "swear" / "sware"): This word means to make a solemn oath. Jacob’s insistence on an oath highlights how important this burial request is to him.
• חָוָה (shāchāh, "bowed"): This verb means to bow down, often as an act of worship or deep respect. Here, it shows Jacob’s response to Joseph’s promise, possibly expressing gratitude or worship toward God.

Why Genesis 47:31 matters

• This verse clarifies that Jacob’s greatest concern at the end of his life is to be buried in the land God promised, showing his faith in God’s covenant.
• The detail about Jacob bowing after Joseph’s oath highlights the seriousness of the promise and Jacob’s reverence, either toward God or in gratitude to Joseph.
• The verse connects to the larger story of God’s promises to the patriarchs, showing that even in Egypt, Jacob’s heart remains tied to the land of Canaan.