Genesis 50:9 kjv

And there went up with him both chariots and horsemen: and it was a very great company.

Genesis 50:9 nkjv

And there went up with him both chariots and horsemen, and it was a very great gathering.

Genesis 50:9 niv

Chariots and horsemen also went up with him. It was a very large company.

Genesis 50:9 esv

And there went up with him both chariots and horsemen. It was a very great company.

Genesis 50:9 nlt

A great number of chariots and charioteers accompanied Joseph.

Genesis 50 verses

Genesis 50 9 Meaning

Genesis 50:9 describes the grandeur and immense scale of the funeral procession for Jacob, Joseph’s father, from Egypt to Canaan. It highlights the involvement of numerous Egyptian officials, soldiers, and people, signifying the immense respect accorded to Jacob and the high status of Joseph, the second-in-command in Egypt. This journey underscores the deep mourning and the exceptional honor bestowed upon the patriarch Jacob at his death, reflecting divine providence in raising Joseph to such a position of influence.

Genesis 50 9 Context

Verse Context: Genesis 50:9 directly follows the description of Jacob's embalming and the seven-day period of mourning within Egypt. Joseph, having secured Pharaoh's permission, gathered a significant entourage to carry out his father's final wish to be buried in the land of Canaan. This verse focuses on the composition and sheer magnitude of that escort, preceding the journey and the subsequent lamentation at the threshing floor of Atad.

Chapter Context: Genesis chapter 50 marks the conclusion of the Book of Genesis. It details Jacob's death, his embalming in Egypt, and Joseph's dutiful and elaborate arrangements for his burial in the family tomb in Canaan, fulfilling Jacob's dying wish. The chapter also covers the reconciliation of Joseph with his brothers and Joseph's own death and embalming, along with his final instruction regarding his bones, reinforcing the theme of the patriarchs' connection to the Promised Land. The grandeur of Jacob's funeral highlights Joseph's powerful position in Egypt and God's providence.

Historical/Cultural Context: In ancient Egypt, funerals, especially for prominent figures, were elaborate and extended affairs. Embalming for 40-70 days was common. High officials like Joseph, with the Pharaoh’s approval, would be granted state-level honor for their deceased kin. Chariots and horsemen were symbols of military strength, wealth, and high status in the ancient Near East, particularly for a power like Egypt. Their presence indicates not only a protective escort but also an ostentatious display of respect, a custom shared across many cultures to honor the deceased and show the status of the bereaved family. Jacob's burial in Canaan, rather than Egypt, was a testament to his faith in the Abrahamic covenant regarding the land.

Genesis 50 9 Word analysis

• And there went up (וַיַּעַל – wayya`al): This verb means "to ascend," "to go up." It carries a significant meaning as they are going from the lower land of Egypt to the higher land of Canaan/Palestine, both geographically and spiritually, as it is the Promised Land. It also conveys the idea of a significant journey, a pilgrimage for this solemn duty.
• with him (אִתּוֹ – itto): Refers to Joseph. He is the central figure leading this extraordinary procession, highlighting his filial piety and authority. His presence validates and centralizes the event around Jacob's heir.
• both chariots (רֶכֶב – rekhev): Singular for "chariot" but often used collectively for "chariotry" or "vehicles." These were advanced, expensive, and powerful military assets in ancient Egypt. Their inclusion signifies royal endorsement, protective escort, and immense honor for Jacob's burial.
• and horsemen (וּפָרָשִׁים – u`parashim): Refers to cavalry or horse riders. Like chariots, they were an elite part of the Egyptian army, used for rapid movement and battle. Their presence further emphasizes the state-level solemnity, security, and prestige of the funeral.
• and it was (וַיְהִי – wayhi): A common Hebrew narrative conjunction meaning "and it came to pass" or "and it was." It introduces the ensuing description, emphasizing the existence and nature of the procession.
• a very great (כָּבֵד מְאֹד – kaved me`od): Kaved means "heavy," "weighty," "significant," or "numerous." Me`od means "very" or "exceedingly." This phrase strongly emphasizes the extraordinary magnitude and impressiveness of the company. It's not merely large; it's overwhelmingly grand.
• company (מַחֲנֶה – machaneh): Refers to a "camp," "host," "army," or "company." In this context, it signifies a very large gathering of people, whether civilians or military, accompanying the funeral. The word can denote a military formation, reinforcing the sense of an organized, well-equipped escort.

Words-group by words-group analysis:

• "And there went up with him both chariots and horsemen": This phrase paints a picture of official state involvement. Joseph, as the second-in-command, was given the full ceremonial might of Egypt for his father's funeral. This procession was not a small family affair but a grand demonstration of respect, orchestrated by the highest levels of the Egyptian court, indicative of Pharaoh’s approval and Joseph’s standing.
• "and it was a very great company": This emphasizes the sheer size and impressiveness of the group. The collective might of chariots, horsemen, and potentially other high-ranking officials and mourners made it an unforgettable sight, signaling the unprecedented honor shown to Jacob and by extension, to Joseph. This procession itself becomes a public spectacle, testifying to the Lord's blessing on His people through Joseph, causing even the mightiest nation to pay homage.

Genesis 50 9 Bonus section

The funeral procession itself likely covered over 250 miles, a significant undertaking for such a large company, especially with military chariots and cavalry. The journey would have taken several days, emphasizing the commitment to this final act of piety. The use of the word machaneh (company/camp), which is often used for a military encampment (e.g., Israelite camp in the wilderness), further strengthens the notion that this was a highly organized, substantial, and possibly disciplined contingent, far beyond a typical family procession. This impressive display may also have served as a demonstration of Egypt's power in the region, subtly reminding local tribes and nations of Egyptian authority while escorting a prominent figure from Egypt. Yet, from a Biblical perspective, it underscores the Lord's ability to turn all circumstances, even a death and funeral, into a public testimony of His working and His promise-keeping.

Genesis 50 9 Commentary

Genesis 50:9 encapsulates the profound honor bestowed upon Jacob's memory, facilitated by Joseph's unique position in Egypt. This verse depicts not merely a funeral procession but a powerful public statement of esteem, backed by the authority and military might of the dominant world power. The presence of chariots and horsemen elevates the event to a state ceremony, highlighting that Pharaoh himself acknowledged and honored Joseph and his deceased father.

Spiritually, this act of pompous respect is more than just cultural custom; it is a testament to God's providence. Jacob, a simple shepherd, now receives a burial that surpasses any earthly king, all orchestrated by his son, whom God had sovereignly placed in power. It serves as a visual affirmation that God exalts those who are faithful to Him, even drawing honor from unexpected sources like pagan rulers. This procession back to Canaan also reinforces the Abrahamic covenant concerning the land, fulfilling Jacob’s dying wish to be buried with his forefathers. It symbolically links the Israelites back to their inheritance, even as they remain temporarily in Egypt. This detailed account of honor serves as a beacon of hope and a promise fulfilled by God, showcasing that despite current exile or challenges, God remains faithful to His covenant and to His people.