Genesis 50:12

And his sonnes did vnto him according as he commanded them. Genesis 50:12 (KJV)

Context: Genesis 50 concludes the story of Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but later became a powerful ruler in Egypt. After the death of their father Jacob (Israel), Joseph’s brothers feared that he might seek revenge. Joseph, however, reassured them of his forgiveness and of God’s sovereign plan, bringing peace to a family that had endured great betrayal.

Obedience and Respect: Genesis 50:12 highlights the obedience and respect shown by Jacob’s sons—the children of Israel—toward Joseph’s commands. Their willingness to act “according as he commanded them” demonstrates the importance of honoring authority and fulfilling responsibilities as instructed. Joseph’s authority was respected not only because of his position of power but also because of the wisdom and guidance he had received from God.

Family Unity: The actions of Jacob’s sons reflect a remarkable unity and harmony within the family. Despite their troubled past and the potential for division, they chose to honor Joseph’s wishes, thereby maintaining peace and unity among Jacob’s descendants. This serves as a reminder of the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in building and preserving strong family bonds.

Fulfilling Promises: Earlier, Jacob had made Joseph swear to bury him in the land of Canaan, where his ancestors rested (Genesis 47:29‑31). By obeying Joseph’s command to carry out the burial, Jacob’s sons ensured the fulfillment of that promise and honored their father’s final request. Their faithful obedience thus brought closure to Jacob’s life and affirmed the covenantal promises of the patriarchs.