Hebrews 11:22
By faith Joseph, when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
Hebrews 11:22 · King James Version
Meaning
Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob, played a significant role in the history of the Israelites. The verse emphasizes the importance of Joseph's faith in God, even at the end of his life. Despite being in Egypt, Joseph never forgot his roots and his belief in God's promise to his ancestors. By instructing the Israelites to carry his bones with them when they departed from Egypt, Joseph demonstrated his unwavering faith in God's covenant with his people. This act symbolized Joseph's hope and belief that God would fulfill His promise of leading the Israelites to the land of Canaan. Joseph's commandment concerning his bones is a powerful testament to his trust in God's faithfulness and serves as a reminder of the importance of faith in God's promises.
Theological Overview
Joseph's mention and command concerning his bones in Hebrews 11:22 portrays a profound theological interpretation. The act of Joseph making mention of the departure of the children of Israel signifies his faith in God's promise to his forefathers. By requesting that his bones be carried out of Egypt when the Israelites left, Joseph demonstrated his belief in the deliverance of God's people. This act highlights the continuity of faith throughout generations within the Israelite community. Additionally, the mention of Joseph's bones carries symbolic significance, as bones often represent the essence of a person's being or their legacy. Therefore, Joseph's command concerning his bones can be seen as a physical manifestation of his enduring faith and a symbolic gesture of his eternal connection to the covenant with God.
Hebrews 11:22 in other translations
American Standard Version
By faith Joseph, when his end was nigh, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel; and gave commandment concerning his bones.
World English Bible
By faith, Joseph, when his end was near, made mention of the departure of the children of Israel; and gave instructions concerning his bones.
Douay-Rheims
By faith Joseph, when he was dying, made mention of the going out of the children of Israel and gave commandment concerning his bones.
Geneva Bible (1599)
By faith Ioseph when he died, made mention of the departing of the children of Israel, and gaue commandement of his bones.