Exodus 1:5

Letters to the Faithful - Exodus 1:5

Berean Standard Bible

The descendants of Jacob numbered seventy in all, including Joseph, who was already in Egypt.

King James Bible

And all the souls that came out of the loins of Jacob were seventy souls: for Joseph was in Egypt already.

Hebrew Text:

וַֽיְהִי֙ כָּל־נֶ֣פֶשׁ יֹצְאֵ֣י יֶֽרֶךְ־יַעֲקֹ֔ב שִׁבְעִ֖ים נָ֑פֶשׁ וְיוֹסֵ֖ף הָיָ֥ה בְמִצְרָֽיִם׃

Transliteration:

Vay'hi kol-nefesh yotzei yerekh-Ya'akov shiv'im nefesh v'Yosef hayah b'Mitzrayim.

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The descendants of Jacob numbered seventy in all

This phrase highlights the total number of Jacob's family members who went to Egypt. The number seventy is significant in biblical numerology, often symbolizing completeness or divine order. This count includes Jacob's sons and their families, as detailed in Genesis 46:8-27. The number seventy is also mentioned in Deuteronomy 10:22, emphasizing the growth of the Israelites from a small family to a great nation. This growth fulfills God's promise to Abraham in Genesis 12:2, where God promised to make Abraham's descendants into a great nation.

including Joseph

Joseph, one of Jacob's twelve sons, plays a crucial role in the narrative of the Israelites' journey to Egypt. Sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph rose to power in Egypt, becoming second only to Pharaoh (Genesis 41:40-41). His presence in Egypt was part of God's providential plan to preserve Jacob's family during a severe famine (Genesis 45:5-7). Joseph's story is a type of Christ, as he was rejected by his own, suffered unjustly, and later became a savior to his people.

who was already in Egypt

Joseph's prior arrival in Egypt set the stage for the Israelites' eventual settlement there. His position allowed him to provide for his family during the famine, as seen in Genesis 47:11-12. This phrase underscores God's sovereignty and foreknowledge, as He orchestrated events to ensure the survival and growth of His chosen people. Joseph's presence in Egypt also foreshadows the Israelites' future enslavement and eventual exodus, as prophesied in Genesis 15:13-14.

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And all the souls that came out of the loins of Jacob were seventy souls: for Joseph was in Egypt already. Thus declares the sacred text of Exodus 1:5, a verse that, though brief, serves as a pivotal hinge in the narrative of God’s covenant people, marking the transition from the patriarchal era of Genesis to the redemptive drama of Exodus. This verse, nestled within the opening chapter of the second book of the Torah, encapsulates the fulfillment of divine promises, the continuity of God’s covenant, and the stage-setting for the mighty acts of deliverance that will unfold. Its numerical precision and genealogical focus invite contemplation of both the historical and theological significance of the seventy souls who descended into Egypt, laying the foundation for the nation of Israel.

The verse begins with a summation: “all the souls that came out of the loins of Jacob were seventy souls.” The number seventy carries profound symbolic weight in the scriptural tradition, often signifying completeness or fullness. Here, it represents the entirety of Jacob’s household, the nascent people of God, who journey from Canaan to Egypt, drawn by the providence that has placed Joseph in a position of authority. The phrase “out of the loins of Jacob” emphasizes the organic unity of this family, bound by blood and covenant to the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Hebrew term *nephesh*, translated as “souls,” underscores the individuality and vitality of each person, yet collectively they form the nucleus of the nation that will emerge from Egypt. This enumeration is not merely a historical detail but a theological affirmation of God’s faithfulness, for the seventy souls recall the divine promise to Abraham that his offspring would be as numerous as the stars (Genesis 15:5), a promise now taking root in the fertile soil of Egypt.

The latter clause, “for Joseph was in Egypt already,” serves both as a narrative clarification and a theological anchor. Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, whose story dominates the latter chapters of Genesis, is already established in Egypt, having risen to prominence through God’s providential hand. His presence in Egypt, as a ruler second only to Pharaoh, is the catalyst for the migration of Jacob’s family, as they seek refuge from famine in Canaan (Genesis 46:1-7). This clause underscores Joseph’s unique role in the divine economy, for his ascent from slavery to sovereignty foreshadows the greater deliverance that God will accomplish for His people. The phrase also situates the verse within the broader context of Genesis, linking the patriarchal narratives to the exodus account. Joseph’s prior arrival in Egypt is not an incidental detail but a testament to God’s sovereign orchestration, weaving individual lives into the tapestry of His redemptive plan.

Theologically, Exodus 1:5 speaks to the continuity of God’s covenant with His people. The seventy souls are the heirs of the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—promises of land, seed, and blessing (Genesis 12:1-3; 26:3; 28:13-14). Their descent into Egypt marks a new phase in the covenantal narrative, where the family of Jacob begins its transformation into a nation. The number seventy, echoed in later traditions such as the seventy elders of Israel (Exodus 24:1) or the seventy nations in Genesis 10, suggests a microcosm of God’s redemptive purpose, which will ultimately encompass all peoples. Yet, this verse also foreshadows the trials to come, for the sojourn in Egypt will lead to enslavement, testing the faith and resilience of God’s people. The small number of seventy souls stands in stark contrast to the “great nation” promised to Abraham, highlighting the humble beginnings from which God will bring forth His mighty deliverance.

In its canonical context, Exodus 1:5 resonates with themes of divine providence and multiplication. The verse recalls Genesis 46:27, where the same number of seventy is recorded as the total of Jacob’s household entering Egypt, reinforcing the consistency of the scriptural record. This numerical precision serves not only to document but to signify God’s attentive care over His people, preserving them in their entirety as they enter a foreign land. The subsequent verses of Exodus 1 reveal the rapid growth of this small company into a numerous people, fulfilling the divine command to “be fruitful and multiply” (Genesis 1:28; 35:11). The seventy souls, therefore, are a seed planted in Egypt, destined to flourish under God’s covenantal care, even amidst oppression.

Moreover, the verse invites reflection on the interplay between human agency and divine sovereignty. The migration to Egypt is prompted by human need—famine drives Jacob’s family to seek sustenance—but it is God who has prepared the way through Joseph’s rise to power. The phrase “for Joseph was in Egypt already” subtly points to the hidden hand of God, who works through the trials and triumphs of His servant to preserve His people. This theme of providence reverberates throughout Exodus, as God raises up Moses, delivers Israel from bondage, and guides them to the promised land. The seventy souls, though few in number, are carried by the current of God’s purpose, which will not be thwarted by human frailty or opposition.

In the broader sweep of salvation history, Exodus 1:5 serves as a bridge between promise and fulfillment. The small company of Jacob’s household stands at the threshold of Israel’s formation as a nation, a process that will be forged in the crucible of Egypt’s oppression and God’s deliverance. The verse also prefigures the inclusion of the Gentiles, for just as Joseph’s presence in Egypt draws his family to safety, so too will Israel’s mission ultimately extend God’s blessing to all nations (Genesis 12:3). In the New Testament, the number seventy reappears in the sending of the seventy disciples (Luke 10:1), symbolizing the extension of God’s kingdom to all peoples, a fulfillment rooted in the covenantal promises first embodied in the seventy souls of Jacob’s house.

In conclusion, Exodus 1:5 is a verse of quiet yet profound significance, encapsulating the transition from a family to a nation, from promise to fulfillment, and from human need to divine provision. The seventy souls, united by the covenant and sustained by God’s faithfulness, represent the seed of Israel, planted in Egypt under the watchful eye of the Almighty. The mention of Joseph’s prior presence in Egypt underscores the intricate workings of divine providence, which prepares the way for redemption. This verse invites awe at God’s meticulous care for His people, gratitude for His unchanging promises, and anticipation of the mighty acts by which He will bring His purposes to fruition. Thus, in the seventy souls of Jacob’s house, we behold the beginnings of a nation set apart for God’s glory, a testimony to His sovereign grace that echoes through the ages.

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Grace and peace be multiplied unto you, beloved brethren and sisters, in the name of God our Father and of Jesus Christ our Lord, who is the same yesterday and today and forever. Blessed be the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light, and who has given us a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.

I write to you, dearly beloved, that you may be strengthened in faith and rooted in hope, as we consider the works of the Lord in days of old. For it is written: “All the descendants of Jacob were seventy persons; Joseph was already in Egypt.” In this brief word lies a testimony of divine providence and unshakable promise.

Contemplate, O beloved, how the purposes of God unfold through generations. Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel, entered Egypt with but seventy persons, a small and vulnerable company. Yet they were a people of promise, heirs of the covenant which the Lord had sworn to Abraham, saying: “I will make of you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.”

Joseph, whom God had sent ahead into Egypt, though by the design of men it was through betrayal, was preserved by the hand of the Almighty to prepare a place for his brethren. Thus did God turn what was meant for evil into good, to accomplish the preservation of many lives. Behold the faithfulness of the Lord, who works all things according to the counsel of His will.

In like manner, O beloved, know that though you may find yourselves few in number, weak in the eyes of the world, or scattered in strange lands, the promises of God are sure and steadfast. The God who multiplied the seventy into a great multitude that filled the land of Egypt is the same God who is at work in His Church today. For He has said: “Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.”

Take heart, then, and do not despise the day of small beginnings. The Lord delights to magnify His power through what is humble and lowly. Was it not through a remnant that He preserved Israel? Was it not through a child born in Bethlehem that salvation came to the world? Was it not through a band of fishermen and tax collectors that the gospel was first proclaimed?

Therefore, O beloved, do not grow weary in well-doing. The work of the Lord is not in vain. Though you may labor in obscurity, though the fruits of your toil may seem small, trust in the God who brings increase. For as the seventy persons of Jacob became a mighty nation, so shall the mustard seed of faith grow into a tree, and the leaven of the kingdom shall leaven the whole lump.

Moreover, let us learn from the story of Joseph and his brethren. Though they were separated by sin and estrangement, the Lord wrought reconciliation through His providence. Let there be no bitterness among you, O brethren; let forgiveness and mercy abound. As Joseph forgave his brothers, saying, “You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good,” so let us also forgive one another, trusting in the sovereign goodness of our Lord.

Let us likewise remember that we are sojourners and exiles in this world, even as the children of Israel were in Egypt. Set your minds, therefore, not on earthly things, but on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. For we seek a better country, a heavenly one, whose builder and maker is God.

And as the Lord remained faithful to His covenant, bringing His people out of Egypt with a mighty hand and an outstretched arm, so shall He fulfill all His promises to us in Christ Jesus. He who has begun a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

Now may the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen.

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O Lord God Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth, the God of our fathers, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, the One who keeps covenant and shows steadfast love to a thousand generations of those who love You and keep Your commandments, we lift our voices to You in reverence and in trust.

We remember, O Lord, the words of Your servant Moses, who by the inspiration of Your Spirit wrote: “All the descendants of Jacob were seventy persons; Joseph was already in Egypt.” In this simple record, we behold the unfolding of Your providence, the quiet working of Your eternal purpose through humble beginnings.

You, O Lord, who called Abraham from a land of idolatry and promised to make of him a great nation, brought forth Your people by means unseen by men. You led Jacob and his sons into Egypt, where they found provision in time of famine, though they came as but seventy persons, a small and vulnerable company. Yet Your eye was upon them; Your hand was guiding them; Your promises stood unshaken.

We worship You, O Sovereign Lord, for You are the God who brings forth abundance from what is small. You are the God who preserves a remnant, who exalts the lowly, who turns mourning into joy. We give thanks that You are not bound by the strength of numbers nor the power of men, but You delight to show forth Your might through those who trust in You.

Therefore, O Lord our God, teach us to take heart in the days of small beginnings. When our strength seems little and our resources few, remind us of Your faithfulness to the house of Jacob. When we labor in obscurity or feel as strangers in the land, remind us that You are the One who brings forth fruit in its season, that You are the Master of times and seasons, and that Your word never fails.

O gracious Father, as You preserved the descendants of Jacob in a foreign land, so preserve Your Church in the midst of this present age. Though we are scattered across the earth, though we dwell among many peoples, make us one in Christ. Keep us steadfast in faith, joyful in hope, and fervent in love. Let us remember that we are pilgrims and sojourners, seeking a city that has foundations, whose builder and maker is God.

Grant us, O Lord, to trust in Your unseen hand, even when the way is hidden from our eyes. Strengthen our hearts to endure trials and to persevere through suffering, knowing that You are working all things together for good to those who love You and are called according to Your purpose. May we, like Joseph, walk in faith and humility, knowing that what men mean for evil, You mean for good, to bring about the saving of many lives.

Forgive us, merciful Father, for our doubts and our forgetfulness. Too often we judge by what we see, and we forget the great works You have done. Too often we grow impatient, longing for immediate fruit, and we fail to trust the slow and certain unfolding of Your plan. Cleanse us from such unbelief, and renew within us a spirit of steadfast trust.

O Lord, bless the labor of Your servants in every place. Bless the small congregations and the great assemblies alike; bless the solitary witness and the gathered multitude. Let not our measure of success be the sight of our eyes, but let it be faithfulness to Your calling. May we rejoice in the growth that You alone give, and may we await with hope the day when the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.

Finally, O God of our salvation, remind us always that we are heirs of the same promise given to Abraham and his seed. Through Jesus Christ, the true Seed, we have been brought near; through His blood we have been made partakers of the covenant of grace. As You multiplied the seventy persons of Jacob into a great nation, so shall You gather from every tribe and tongue and nation a people for Your own possession, zealous for good works.

Until that day when all Your purposes are fulfilled and all Your promises come to pass, keep us faithful, keep us watchful, and keep us in Your peace. For Yours, O Lord, is the kingdom and the power and the glory, both now and forevermore.

In the name of Jesus Christ, the Light of the world and the Hope of the nations, we pray. Amen.