Knowing The Word in Genesis 47:27-31, Prepares to Die

[Scene 7]

27 Thus Israel settled in the land of Egypt, in the land of Goshen. And they gained possessions in it, and were fruitful and multiplied greatly. [This fulfills the command of God and anticipates and precipitates the exodus.] 28 And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years. So the days of Jacob, the years of his life, were 147 years. [Jacob and Joseph lived together 17 years before they were separated and then lived another 17 years together before Jacob’s death.]

29 And when the time drew near that Israel must die, he called his son Joseph and said to him, “If now I have found favor in your sight, put your hand under my thigh and promise to deal kindly and truly with me. Do not bury me in Egypt, 30 but let me lie with my fathers. [Abraham’s dying wish was a son for Isaac; Jacob’s to be returned to the land of promise. Both are to fulfill the covenant promises.] Carry me out of Egypt and bury me in their burying place.” He answered, “I will do as you have said.” 31 And he said, “Swear to me”; and he swore to him. Then Israel bowed himself upon the head of his bed. [Is this a sign of weakness, gratitude, or prayer? The ambiguity leaves all interpretations open.]