Genesis 47:13-50:26

The famine continues.  Joseph acquired all the livestock of the people and eventually the land and the people are in bondage to Pharaoh to pay for food.  Quite a price to pay for food, but when you are hungry and at danger of starving to death, you will do anything to survive. 

Jacob had Joseph make another 'hand under the thigh' promise.  This one to not bury him in Egypt.  Joseph agreed.  I understand that desire - when our son died, I did not want him buried in Colorado.  I wanted him buried in a place where I knew there would be loved one near by.  Not logical to everyone, but important nonetheless. 

Before he died, Jacob blessed Joseph's sons.  He place the younger in a higher position than the older one.  How disconcerting - birth order was so important and here was Jacob ignoring it.  Wonder if it was connected to him taking Esau's birthrite? 

Before he dies, Jacob tells each of his children what to expect in the coming days. The good, the bad, the ugly. 

Wow!! What mourning. 40 days to embalm. 70 days of mourning. Then on the journey, they stopped and mourned for another 7 days.  In our society mourning is looked down on.. People are to get over it and get on with their lives.  That is easier said than done. 

After burying Jacob, the brothers were afraid of retribution from Joseph.  He said to them, 50:19-21 "But Joseph said to them, "Don't be afraid. Am I in the place of God? 20 You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. 21 So then, don't be afraid. I will provide for you and your children." And he reassured them and spoke kindly to them."