“And he sent Judah before him unto Joseph, to direct his face unto Goshen; and they came into the land of Goshen.”
Context: Genesis 46 records the account of Jacob and his family’s journey to Egypt. Famine had struck the land, and Jacob’s son Joseph, who was a high-ranking official in Egypt, had invited his family to settle in the fertile region of Goshen. Jacob, along with his descendants, embarked on this significant journey to Egypt, where they would be reunited with Joseph.
Significance of Judah: In Genesis 46:28, it is mentioned that Jacob sent Judah ahead of them to Joseph. Judah was one of Jacob’s twelve sons and was the fourth-born. This decision to send Judah ahead held great significance. Judah played a central role in the narrative of Joseph’s life, particularly during the incident when Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers. Judah was the one who proposed selling Joseph to a passing caravan rather than killing him (Genesis 37:26-27). This act demonstrated a certain level of responsibility and compassion on Judah’s part. Moreover, it was through Judah’s lineage that the Messiah, Jesus Christ, would eventually come (Genesis 49:8-12).
Directing His Face unto Goshen: The purpose of sending Judah ahead was to direct his face, or guide him, to Goshen. Goshen was a region in Egypt that provided abundant pastureland for livestock and was well-suited for Jacob’s family, who were primarily shepherds. By sending Judah ahead, Jacob ensured that his family would be settled in a favorable location in Egypt, away from the bustling cities and closer to the resources they needed to thrive.
Symbolism: This verse can also be seen as symbolic of the guidance and providence of God. In sending Judah ahead to Joseph, Jacob displayed trust in his son to lead them to the right destination. Similarly, as believers, we are called to trust in the Lord and allow Him to guide our paths. God desires to direct our steps and lead us to the places He has prepared for us, just as He led Jacob’s family to Goshen. It reminds us of Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.”
Lessons for us:
- Trusting in God’s guidance: We can learn from Jacob’s trust in sending Judah ahead. We should trust in God’s guidance and allow Him to lead us in our journey of life. God knows the best path for us and will direct our steps when we rely on Him.
- Responsiveness and compassion: Judah’s act of compassion and responsibility towards Joseph teaches us the importance of caring for others and making decisions that reflect God’s love. It reminds us to act with kindness and empathy in our relationships.
- God’s provision: Goshen symbolizes the provision and blessings of God. He guided Jacob’s family to a place where their needs could be met abundantly. Likewise, God provides for His people in various ways, often beyond what we can imagine or expect.
In summary, Genesis 46:28 highlights the journey of Jacob’s family to Goshen and the role of Judah in leading them there. It reminds us to trust in God’s guidance, display compassion towards others, and rely on His provision in our lives.
