Genesis 46:27
And the sons of Joseph, which were born him in Egypt, were two souls: all the souls of the house of Jacob, which came into Egypt, were threescore and ten.
Genesis 46:27 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse from the book of Genesis in the Bible recounts the journey of Jacob and his family into Egypt during a time of famine. It mentions the two sons of Joseph who were born in Egypt, Ephraim and Manasseh. The verse also highlights the total number of Jacob's descendants who traveled to Egypt, which was seventy in total.
This verse holds significance as it marks the beginning of the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would be numerous and would become a great nation. The number seventy is often seen as symbolic in the Bible, representing completeness and wholeness. It also sets the stage for the narrative of the Israelites' time in Egypt, which ultimately leads to their enslavement and eventual liberation through Moses.
Understanding the context of this verse is crucial in tracing the history of the Israelite people and their relationship with God. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness in fulfilling his promises and his providence in times of need. As readers engage with this verse on the website, they are encouraged to reflect on the themes of family, faith, and God's sovereignty that are present throughout the Bible.
Theological Overview
One interesting theological interpretation of the verse about the sons of Joseph and the family of Jacob entering Egypt is the concept of divine providence. The fact that the number of souls who entered Egypt was specifically mentioned is significant, as it demonstrates God's meticulous planning and control over the lives of His chosen people. The number seventy is symbolically important in the Bible, often representing completeness or perfection. In this context, it could be seen as God fulfilling His promise to Abraham to make his descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. Another theological interpretation could focus on the idea of preservation. Despite the trials and tribulations the family of Jacob faced in Egypt, God preserved them and multiplied their numbers, showing His faithfulness and commitment to His covenant with Abraham. Through word studies, we can delve deeper into the meanings behind the numbers and symbolism used, providing a richer understanding of the passage and its theological implications.
Genesis 46:27 in other translations
American Standard Version
and the sons of Joseph, who were born to him in Egypt, were two souls: all the souls of the house of Jacob, that came into Egypt, were threescore and ten.
World English Bible
The sons of Joseph, who were born to him in Egypt, were two souls. All the souls of the house of Jacob, who came into Egypt, were seventy.
Douay-Rheims
And the sons of Joseph, that were born to him in the land of Egypt, two souls. All the souls of the house of Jacob, that entered into Egypt, were seventy.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Also the sonnes of Ioseph, which were borne him in Egypt, were two soules: so that al the soules of the house of Iaakob, which came into Egypt, are seuentie.