What Land Was Given to Jacob’s Family in Egypt?
When Jacob and his household migrated from Canaan to Egypt, they were not only welcomed by Joseph but also granted a specific, fertile region in which to live. This land played a crucial role in the survival and growth of the Israelites during the remaining years of famine and for generations afterward. The region provided a safe haven where the family could prosper, maintain their identity, and multiply. The Bible identifies this land as the land of Goshen.
1. The Land of Goshen: A Favored Location
A Region in Northeastern Egypt
The land of Goshen was located in the northeastern part of Egypt, near the Nile Delta. This region was known for:
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Fertile soil
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Abundant water supply
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Pasture suitable for livestock
These qualities made Goshen an ideal settlement for Jacob’s family, who were shepherds and herdsmen.
Called the “Best of the Land”
Pharaoh described Goshen as “the best of the land” (Genesis 47:6). This indicates that the region was not just adequate but highly prized for its agricultural and pastoral resources.
2. Why Joseph Chose Goshen for His Family
Joseph, who held the highest administrative office in Egypt under Pharaoh, selected Goshen for several strategic and cultural reasons:
1. Its suitability for shepherds
Jacob’s family were shepherds by profession. In Egyptian culture, shepherds were often looked down upon (Genesis 46:34). Thus:
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Goshen provided distance from the main Egyptian population, reducing cultural tension.
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It allowed Jacob’s family to maintain their distinct identity and traditions.
2. Close enough for Joseph to visit
Goshen was close to Joseph’s administrative center, allowing him:
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To provide for his family easily
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To maintain strong, personal contact
3. Protection and autonomy
Living in a semi-isolated region ensured:
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Safety during the famine
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Minimal Egyptian influence
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Freedom to grow as their own community
3. Pharaoh’s Generosity and Official Grant
Pharaoh not only approved Joseph’s request but expanded his generosity:
Pharaoh’s Instructions (Genesis 47:6)
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“Let them live in the land of Goshen.”
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“If you know capable men among them, put them in charge of my livestock.”
This shows Pharaoh’s confidence in Joseph and willingness to entrust the family with responsibilities in the Egyptian economy.
4. The Exact Area of Goshen
While the Bible does not give precise boundaries, scholars generally associate Goshen with:
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The eastern Nile Delta, possibly around the Wadi Tumilat
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An area later linked to Rameses, mentioned in Genesis 47:11 as the place where Joseph settled them
This association suggests that Goshen and Rameses refer to the same general region.
5. What Life in Goshen Meant for Israel
1. Prosperity and Growth
In Goshen, the Israelites:
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Multiplied greatly
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Became powerful as a community
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Amassed livestock and wealth
2. Preservation of identity
Their separation from Egyptian society helped preserve:
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Their faith
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Their customs
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Their tribal structure
3. A Setting for Future Deliverance
Goshen later played an important role during:
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The oppression of the Israelites
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The Exodus—Goshen is specifically mentioned as the place where they lived when Moses confronted Pharaoh
Thus, Goshen became both a refuge and the backdrop for Israel’s miraculous deliverance.
6. A Fulfillment of God’s Promise
By guiding Jacob’s family to Egypt and providing them with fertile land, God worked through Joseph to fulfill His covenant promises:
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To preserve Jacob’s descendants during famine
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To multiply them into a great nation
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To prepare them for the future return to Canaan
Goshen served as a crucial stage in this divine plan.
Conclusion
The land given to Jacob’s family in Egypt was the land of Goshen, described as the best part of the land and especially well-suited for shepherds. It offered safety, separation from Egyptian society, and a rich environment for Jacob’s family to grow. Under Joseph’s protection and Pharaoh’s blessing, Goshen became the birthplace of the nation of Israel—a place where they flourished, remained distinct, and awaited God’s next chapter in their history.
Who were the members of Jacob’s household that moved to Egypt?