Genesis 50:5 Meaning and Explanation
“My father made me swear, saying, Lo, I die: in my grave which I have digged for me in the land of Canaan, there shalt thou bury me. Now therefore let me go up, I pray thee, and bury my father, and I will come again.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Joseph requests permission to bury his father in Canaan, explaining it was Jacob's final wish.
The Context of Genesis 50:5
Jacob made this request earlier (Genesis 47:29-31) before he died.
What Does Genesis 50:5 Mean?
Jacob had made Joseph swear to bury him not in Egypt but in Canaan, the land God promised to his family. Joseph presents this oath as the binding reason for his request, making it clear this is not just his preference but his father's solemn request before death.
Joseph reassures Pharaoh by promising to return to Egypt after the burial, showing his loyalty and commitment to his role. The oath Joseph took to Jacob shows the spiritual importance the patriarchal family placed on being buried in the promised land.
Genesis 50:5 in the Original Language
digged (כָּרָה), 'prepared/dug' — Jacob had prepared his grave in advance, showing intentionality about his burial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 50:5
What does Genesis 50:5 mean?
Joseph requests permission to bury his father in Canaan, explaining it was Jacob's final wish.
What is the context of Genesis 50:5?
Jacob made this request earlier (Genesis 47:29-31) before he died.