Genesis 46: Into Egypt

As you probably know, one of the pivotal moments of the Old Testament occurs when the descendants of Israel leave their slavery in Egypt behind in a great Exodus.  For those who may be wondering, "Well, how did the Israelites come to be in Egypt in the first place?", Genesis 46 supplies the answer.

Israel, his sons, and their families uproot themselves from Canaan and make the journey into the land of Goshen in Egypt.  Just a few generations previous, Abraham had been promised by God that he would be made into a great nation.  The child of that promise was Isaac.  Israel, Isaac's son, has now increased the family line from one to the 70 persons who make the trek into Egypt.  When the time comes for the nation to leave Egypt in about 400 years, God's promise to Abraham will have made great progress toward being fulfilled.  What began as a single family of less than four score will, in time, become a multitude.

Before he gets to Egypt, however, Israel (now around 130 years old) passes through Beersheba (vs. 1).  What is the significance of that place?  Beersheba is where he had grown up as a boy.  His father Isaac's home had been Beersheba.  As Israel journeys through his hometown, he offers sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.  Then he has one last encounter with God in vs. 2-4.  

Once again, in visions of the night like Israel had experienced before, the Lord introduces Himself as "God, the God of your father."  God promises Israel several things: that he can go fearlessly into Egypt because the Lord is with him, that he will be made into a great nation, and that Joseph himself will be with him at the hour of his death. 

Israel had certainly had his ups and downs in life, his triumphs and his tragedies.  God's final appearance to him on the road to Egypt serves as a kind of benediction and blessing upon his life.  As his earthly journey comes to an end, God reassures Israel ("Jacob") that He is still with him and will be with his family.  

Not a bad way to close out a life.