Genesis 49-50: The End, Jacob dies, but not Before Blessing his sons, Joseph dies.
Genesis 49-50 is the culmination of the first book of the Bible. It is the end where Jacob and Joseph (at 110, many years later) both die. Before he dies, Jacob blesses his 12 sons, but not all of them.
In Genesis chapter 49, Jacob dies and requests that Joseph bury him in Canaan (they are in Egypt). The death of Jacob is quite emotional, and his sons wept; Egypt mourned him for 70 days.
Genesis 49-50 Summary
Genesis chapter 49 is almost entirely taken up by the blessing of Jacob of his sons. This blessing is very important as the sons become the forefathers of the 12 tribes of Israel (for whom they are named). This is a summary of those blessings.
The first three born, Reuben, Simeon, and Levi, are not blessed because (according to Jacob), they are evil. Judah, the fourthborn, is blessed heavily. Judah means praise, and this tribe is the first to go into battle for the state of Israel.
Jacob also prophesies that Zebulun, one of Leah’s younger sons, he says, will live by the sea and become a haven for ships. Issachar, the sixth son, is a donkey, who will lie down in sheep pens, and “he will bend his shoulder to the burden and submit to forced labor.”
Dan will provide justice, and Gad will be attacked by raiders, but will put them back on their heels. Asher’s food will be rich, and Naphtali is a doe set free. Joseph is a fruitful vine, who receives a long blessing. Lastly, Benjamin is a ravenous wolf who devours his prey.
Before Jacob died, he asked Joseph to bury him in the same place in Canaan as Abraham and Isaac. After he dies, Joseph wants him embalmed, which takes 40 days; Egypt mourns him for 70 days. Then Joseph asks the Pharaoh if he can go to Canaan to bury his father. Pharaoh says yes.
Chapter 50 covers about 70 years. Joseph dies, but not before he sees three generations come from his sons. Notably, Joseph reassures his brothers that he will not take revenge on them for trying to kill him and selling him into slavery.
Devotionals and Expressions of Faith
Blessings are very important in Genesis. Jacob’s blessing of his sons is telling because it is so detailed. Jacob does not bless each of his 12 sons equally and favors Judah and Joseph. In a very real sense, Jacob is like Jesus as he prophecies in his blessing.
Symbolism & Meaning
The grief and reverence shown to Jacob by his son, the Egyptians, and the Pharaoh are highly symbolic. Jacob is clearly revered and famous in his new home of Egypt. His desire to be buried in Canaan, in the same grave as Abraham and Isaac, is also meaningful. It shows he represents an unbroken line, from his forefathers to the present day.
Modern Relevance
This passage from Genesis is relevant to modernity because the 12 sons of Jacob become the forefathers of the 12 tribes of Israel. In fact, his prophecy for some comes true.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the topic of these chapters? Genesis 49–50 describes what happens when Jacob dies. The blessing he gives his sons is important to know for those who hope to show knowledge of the Bible.
Where do these chapters come from? Genesis chapters 49 and 50 originate from the book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible. These are the last chapters of the book.
Why does this lesson matter today? This matters today because the blessing is meaningful. It is part prophecy, where Jacob predicts what will become of his sons.
Parting Shots
In these chapters of Genesis, the last two chapters of that book, both Jacob and Joseph die. Looking forward, we have ended the period of studying the Patriarchs and will soon venture into the book of Exodus.
Disclaimer: This article contains a summary of Genesis as well as interpretive insights from the author. Interpretations of biblical texts can differ, and this piece represents one approach to understanding the passage.
