Genesis 47:31He said, "Swear to me," and he swore to him. Israel bowed himself on the bed's head.
The setting
Goshen, Egypt, ~1859 BC. With the oath secured, Jacob turns toward the wall and worships. His last act of strength...
The emotion here: profound relief and gratitude, finally able to rest
The original word
shachah (שָׁחָה) — to bow down in worship, showing reverence despite physical frailty
Why it matters
Hebrews 11:21 says he leaned on his staff while worshipping — showing faith even in weakness
Read with care
What most readers miss in Genesis 47:31
This worship happens AFTER getting the promise — Jacob worships because his son said yes
Common misconceptionPeople think this is Jacob being weak and tired, but Hebrews calls it an act of faith — he's worshipping God for providing a faithful son.
The thread continues
Verses that echo Genesis 47:31
Bible Genome reading
Genesis 47:31 — Bible Genome reading
Emotional genome
Genesis 47:31 comes from the book of Genesis, written during the Patriarchal period. These words are attributed to narrator. The dominant emotion in this verse is resting, with a comfort power of 50% and a tone that is reflective. It belongs to the narrative genre of biblical literature. Key themes include covenant, reverence, family promises. Notable phrases: swear to me; bowed himself.
Emotionally similar
Verses that meet the same resting
“Love is patient and is kind; love doesn't envy. Love doesn't brag, is not proud,”
— 1 Corinthians 13:4
“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar, he said, "It is finished." He bowed his head, and gave up his spirit.”
— John 19:30
“Yahweh is my shepherd: I shall lack nothing.”
— Psalms 23:1
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. Your rod and your staff, they comfor…”
— Psalms 23:4
“"Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations. I will be exalted in the earth."”
— Psalms 46:10
Your reflection
What does Genesis 47:31 mean to you, today?
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