Exodus 1:6
And Joseph died, and all his brethren, and all that generation.
Original Language Analysis
וַיָּ֤מָת
died
H4191
וַיָּ֤מָת
died
Strong's:
H4191
Word #:
1 of 7
to die (literally or figuratively); causatively, to kill
וְכָל
H3605
וְכָל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
3 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
אֶחָ֔יו
and all his brethren
H251
אֶחָ֔יו
and all his brethren
Strong's:
H251
Word #:
4 of 7
a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance [like h0001])
וְכֹ֖ל
H3605
וְכֹ֖ל
Strong's:
H3605
Word #:
5 of 7
properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)
Historical Context
Joseph died at 110 years old (Genesis 50:26), approximately 1805 BC if the Exodus occurred c. 1446 BC. The phrase "all that generation" covers the ~70-year period when eyewitnesses to Jacob's era passed away. This generational shift explains why later pharaohs felt no obligation to honor Joseph's memory or treaties with his family.
Questions for Reflection
- How does the death of the protective generation challenge you to trust God rather than human circumstances?
- What does this transition teach about preparing the next generation to maintain faith when conditions change?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
And Joseph died, and all his brethren, and all that generation (וַיָּמָת יוֹסֵף וְכָל־אֶחָיו, vayamat Yosef vekhol-echav)—This somber summary marks the end of an era. The Hebrew verb died (מוּת, mut) appears three times (Joseph, brothers, generation), emphasizing finality and transition. Despite Joseph's honored status (Genesis 50:26), death claims all—setting the stage for a new pharaoh who "knew not Joseph" (v. 8). The theological message: human glory fades, but God's covenant purposes endure. This verse creates narrative tension: with the protecting generation gone, how will Israel survive?