Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Yaakov (Jacob) ask Yosef (Joseph) to swear to him in Genesis 47:31?
A: Yaakov asked Yosef to swear that he would bury him in the Cave of Machpelah in Eretz Yisrael (the Land of Israel) and not in Egypt. This was important to Yaakov because he wanted to be buried with his ancestors, as mentioned earlier in Genesis (49:29-32). The oath ensured that Yosef would fulfill this request.
Q: What does it mean that Yaakov bowed 'upon the bed’s head' in Genesis 47:31?
A: Rashi explains that Yaakov bowed in gratitude to Hashem after Yosef swore to fulfill his request. The phrase 'upon the bed’s head' may refer to the headboard of his bed, where he leaned while bowing. Some Midrashim suggest that this act symbolized Yaakov’s acknowledgment of Hashem’s kindness in allowing him to see Yosef again and ensuring his burial in Eretz Yisrael.
Q: Why is Yaakov referred to as 'Yisrael' in this verse instead of 'Yaakov'?
A: The name 'Yisrael' (Israel) represents Yaakov’s elevated spiritual status, given to him after wrestling with the angel (Genesis 32:29). Here, the Torah uses 'Yisrael' to emphasize his role as the patriarch of the Jewish people, showing his dignified and holy state even in his final moments.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov making Yosef swear to bury him in Eretz Yisrael?
A: This teaches the importance of being buried in Eretz Yisrael, a value upheld in Jewish tradition. Additionally, it shows Yaakov’s deep connection to the land promised to his descendants. The Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 5:11) discusses the significance of living—and being buried—in Eretz Yisrael as a mitzvah (commandment).
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish burial customs today?
A: Just as Yaakov emphasized burial in Eretz Yisrael, many Jews today still prioritize being buried there or having their remains brought there if they pass away elsewhere. This reflects the eternal bond between the Jewish people and the Land of Israel, as well as the belief in techiyas hameisim (resurrection of the dead), which tradition says will first occur in Eretz Yisrael.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 47:31) describes Yaakov Avinu's request to Yosef to swear that he will bury him in Eretz Yisrael, followed by Yaakov bowing at the head of the bed. The scene occurs during Yaakov's final days in Mitzrayim, where he seeks assurance from Yosef regarding his burial in the land of his fathers.
Yaakov's Request for an Oath
Rashi explains that Yaakov insisted on an oath from Yosef because he suspected that Pharaoh might prevent Yosef from fulfilling this request. By taking an oath, Yosef would be bound by a sacred obligation, making it harder for Pharaoh to interfere. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 96:5) adds that Yaakov sought an oath to ensure Yosef's commitment, as he foresaw potential delays or obstacles.
The Significance of Bowing on the Bed
The act of bowing at the head of the bed is interpreted in several ways:
The Bed as a Symbol
The "head of the bed" (רֹאשׁ הַמִּטָּה) is interpreted allegorically by the Zohar (1:231a) as representing the spiritual state of Yaakov. Just as the head governs the body, Yaakov's righteousness and connection to Hashem governed his entire being, even in his final moments.
Yosef's Oath and Its Implications
The oath taken by Yosef is significant in Jewish law (halacha). The Rambam (Hilchos Shevuos 1:2) discusses the gravity of oaths, emphasizing that they create a binding religious obligation. Yosef's fulfillment of this oath later (Bereshit 50:5-6) demonstrates his unwavering commitment to his father's wishes, setting an example of kibud av (honoring one's parent).