And Jacob said unto Pharaoh, The days of the years of my pilgrimage are an hundred and thirty years: few and evil have the days of the years of my life been, and have not attained unto the days of the years of the life of my fathers in the days of their pilgrimage.

GENESIS 47:9KJV
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Genesis 47:9 (KJV)

What does Genesis 47:9 mean?

Genesis 47:9 records Jacob telling Pharaoh that he is 130 years old, describing his life as a journey marked by few and difficult years, and noting that his lifespan does not compare to that of his ancestors. Jacob is reflecting honestly on his own hardships and the shorter length of his life compared to his fathers.

Jacob is speaking directly to Pharaoh after arriving in Egypt during a famine. Pharaoh has asked Jacob about his age, and Jacob responds by calling his life a "pilgrimage," highlighting the idea that his life has been a temporary journey filled with struggles. Jacob’s words show humility and a sense of perspective about his place in his family's history.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 47:9

  • The word "pilgrimage" (מְגוּרִים, megurim) means a sojourning or temporary stay, emphasizing that Jacob sees his life as a journey rather than a permanent home.
  • The word "evil" (רַע, ra‘) here refers to hardship or trouble, not moral evil, so Jacob is saying his years have been filled with difficulties.
  • The word "attained" (נָשַׂג, nasag) means to reach or equal, so Jacob is saying he has not reached the length or quality of life that his fathers experienced.

Why Genesis 47:9 matters

  • Jacob’s description of his life as a "pilgrimage" helps the reader understand the biblical theme that life on earth is temporary and often difficult, even for people of faith.
  • The verse shows Jacob’s humility and honesty before a powerful ruler, giving insight into his character and the values of his family.
  • This moment connects Jacob’s personal story to the larger story of the patriarchs, showing continuity and difference between generations, and setting the stage for the Israelites’ time in Egypt.