Genesis 46:1

Jacob’s Journey to Egypt

1 So Israel set out with all that he had, and when he came to Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.

Genesis 46:1 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 46:1

And Israel took his journey with all that he had
Set forward in it immediately, as soon as possible after he had resolved to take it, and with him he took all his children and grandchildren, and all his cattle and goods; which shows that he took his journey not only to see his son Joseph, but to continue in Egypt, at least during the years of famine, as his son desired he would, otherwise there would have been no occasion of taking all along with him: and came to Beersheba:
where he and his ancestors Abraham and Isaac had formerly lived; a place where sacrifices had often been offered up, and the worship of God performed, and much communion enjoyed with him. This is said to be sixteen miles from Hebron ^F14, where Jacob dwelt, and according to Musculus was six German miles from it: and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac;
which were attended with prayer and praise; with praise for hearing that his son Joseph was alive, and with prayer that he might have a good, safe, and prosperous journey.

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FOOTNOTES:

F14 Bunting's Travels, p. 72.

Genesis 46:1 In-Context

1 So Israel set out with all that he had, and when he came to Beersheba, he offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.

2 And that night God spoke to Israel in a vision: “Jacob, Jacob!” He said. “Here I am,” replied Jacob.

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.

4 I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will surely bring you back. And Joseph’s own hands will close your eyes.”

5 Then 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.