28 Now Jacob lived in the land of Egypt 17 years, and his life span was 147 years. 29 When the time approached for him to die,(A) he called his son Joseph and said to him, “If I have found favor with you, put your hand under my thigh(B) and promise me that you will deal with me in kindness and faithfulness.(C) Do not bury me in Egypt. 30 When I rest with my ancestors, carry me away from Egypt and bury me in their burial place.”(D)

Joseph answered, “I will do what you have asked.”

31 And Jacob said, “Swear to me.” So Joseph swore to him. Then Israel bowed in thanks at the head of his bed.[a](E)

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Footnotes

  1. 47:31 Or Israel worshiped while leaning on the top of his staff

28 He lived for seventeen more years in Egypt, until he was 147 years old. 29 As the time approached for Israel to die, he called for his son Joseph and addressed him. “Please,” he asked, “if you’re happy with me, make a solemn promise[a] that you’ll treat me fairly and kindly by not burying me in Egypt. 30 Instead, when I’ve died, as my ancestors have, you are to carry me out of Egypt and bury me in their tomb.”[b]

“I’ll do what you’ve asked,” Joseph[c] replied.

31 “Promise me,” Israel[d] insisted. So Joseph promised. Then Israel collapsed[e] on his bed.

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Footnotes

  1. Genesis 47:29 Lit. me, place your hand under my thigh; i.e., make a solemn promise based on the sanctity of the family and commitment to the family line
  2. Genesis 47:30 Lit. place
  3. Genesis 47:30 Lit. he
  4. Genesis 47:31 Lit. he
  5. Genesis 47:31 Lit. Israel bent low