Genesis 46:1-6·~1 min

Jacob’s Journey to Egypt

At Beersheba Jacob worships, and God answers him in a vision with reassurance about Egypt. The promise joins the move south to God's presence, future growth, and Joseph's care at Jacob's death.

S¹o Israel set out with all that he had, and when he came to Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac. ²And that night God spoke to Israel in a vision: “Jacob, Jacob!” He said. ³“I am God,” He said, “the God of your father. Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. ⁴I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will surely bring you back. And Joseph’s own hands will close your eyes.”

Jacob then departs with Pharaoh's wagons, his children and wives, his livestock, and all the goods gathered in Canaan. The whole household moves together toward Egypt.

⁵Then Jacob departed from Beersheba, and the sons of Israel took their father Jacob in the wagons Pharaoh had sent to carry him, along with their children and wives. ⁶They also took the livestock and possessions they had acquired in the land of Canaan, and Jacob and all his offspring went to Egypt.

Section summaryJacob sets out for Egypt, but first stops at Beersheba to sacrifice to the God of Isaac. In a night vision God steadies his fear, promises to go with him, and the family leaves Canaan together with all they own.

Role in the chapterThis opening section authorizes the journey the chapter is about to describe. It frames the move to Egypt not as a desperate relocation alone, but as a step taken under God's promise and presence.