“They shall say, Thy servants’ trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.”– Genesis 46:34 (KJV)
“You must tell him, ‘We have been shepherds all our lives, just as our ancestors have always been.’ When he asks you, ‘What is your occupation?’– Genesis 46:34 (NLT)
“When Pharaoh asks you, ‘What do you all do for a living?’ tell him, ‘We’ve been livestock breeders from the start, both we and our parents.’”– Genesis 46:34 (MSG)
What Does Genesis 46:34 Mean?
This verse plays a significant role in the narrative of Joseph and his family as they journey to Egypt during a time of famine. It speaks to the importance of their identities as shepherds and how they present themselves to Pharaoh. The instruction is clear: they are to be honest about their occupation, which holds cultural importance and reflects their heritage. This is not just a matter of practicality; it reflects their connection to God and their family’s traditions.
Being sheep or cattle herders represented not just a livelihood, but a way of life for them. In this verse, we see strategic advice that was perhaps meant to lead them to a place where they could practice their traditions without interference.
Genesis 46:34 Explanation and Commentary
As we unravel the layers of this verse, we can reflect upon the significance of counsel given by Jacob (also known as Israel) to his sons. He is cautious about how they present themselves to Pharaoh. The Egyptians had a different view of shepherds. To them, herding animals was often viewed negatively. There, being a shepherd was not a profession one would openly boast about.
In telling Pharaoh they would live in Goshen, Jacob underscores the cleverness in their strategy. Goshen was a fertile area suitable for livestock. By asserting their experience as shepherds, they could continue their way of life while also finding grace in the sight of Pharaoh. It is essential to notice how there is a sense of trust in God’s plan to provide for them, even in a foreign land.
This verse also teaches us about identity. Our occupations and skills, like those of Jacob and his family, may become a point of connection, whether through shared experiences or practicalities of life. This connection could foster relationships and lead to understanding. The intention was to find favor with Pharaoh by presenting themselves not just as casual laborers but as skilled individuals who had something to offer.
As we think about this verse today, we should consider the significance of being ourselves in unfamiliar situations. Just as Jacob’s family was instructed to uphold their identity when facing those who might not understand them, we are called to embrace who we are while also being wise about our surroundings.
Context of Genesis 46:34
This passage comes at a pivotal time in the story of Joseph and his family. Jacob, following the death of Joseph, believed he could never see his son again. However, upon learning that Joseph was alive and a high-ranking official in Egypt, he was filled with joy but also apprehension about this journey. He was taking his family into a land that would be strange and potentially unwelcoming.
The overall context emphasizes transitions. Jacob’s family was leaving Canaan, the land promised to them by God, and moving to Egypt during a famine. This journey sets the stage for generations of Israelites who would later become enslaved and eventually rescued by God. Understanding the backdrop helps us realize the importance of establishing their identity in a new land.
By emphasizing their craft, they were not just trying to survive; they were also upholding God’s covenant in a foreign land that had its customs and beliefs. They must remain true to who they were to maintain their bond with God and, eventually, with each other.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Genesis 46:34
The verse can be analyzed further through its specific phrases. When it mentions that “‘every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians,” it highlights cultural differences. It indicates that they are aware of the perceived disdain Egyptians had for shepherds. This knowledge proves to be both a burden and a challenge for Jacob’s sons.
The idea of “trade” refers not only to the vocation of shepherding but also reflects their daily habits and routines—an insight to their deep-rooted traditions. By saying, “Thy servants’ trade hath been about cattle,” it emphasizes their familiarity, expertise, and integrity as shepherds. They were not just passersby but had invested their lives into this work.
Additionally, the phrase “that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen” reveals intent. They were not merely asking for a spot to camp but rather needed a sustainable environment where they could thrive. This highlights a broader biblical theme where God leads His people to a safe haven. It’s a demonstration of God’s provision and protection through family unity and a commitment to faith.
Lessons to Learn From Genesis 46:34
The lessons from this verse span various aspects of our lives. One key takeaway is the importance of being true to our identities, even in challenging circumstances. There may be times when presenting ourselves authentically could lead to misunderstandings or judgment. However, upholding who we are can establish credibility and respect.
Another lesson is the art of strategy. In our lives, we can learn the importance of how we communicate our roles and responsibilities to others. Jacob’s family understood the significance of highlighting their experience while navigating through cultural challenges. This teaches us to be mindful of our interactions with people from different backgrounds and perspectives.
As individuals, we can apply these teachings in different life phases—whether in schools, jobs, or communities. Understanding what lies behind our experiences is vital in establishing connections, fostering empathy, and nurturing relationships. It’s a reminder that our backgrounds define part of who we are and carry significance in our journey.
Final Thoughts
Genesis 46:34 serves as a reminder of the power of identity and the wisdom of presenting oneself authentically. Jacob’s instructions to his children go beyond simply stating a profession; it is about establishing a presence in a foreign land. We relate to this on many levels—navigating new situations, presenting ourselves honestly, and finding opportunities to showcase our strengths.
We encourage you to reflect on your identity and how you can be an ambassador of your story wherever you go. Just as Jacob’s family prepared to introduce themselves to Pharaoh, we can be equipped to build bridges wherever we find ourselves. For those seeking to learn more about the significance of stories in the Bible, we invite you to explore topics such as Genesis 11:7 or engage with other significant passages like Matthew 11. Each verse and narrative adds depth to our understanding of life and faith.