What Is the Significance of Closing the Eyes in Genesis 46:4?

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Genesis 46:4 states: “I will go down with you to Egypt, and I will also bring you back again, and Joseph will lay his hand on your eyes.” This divine assurance from Jehovah to Jacob as he journeyed to Egypt carries both literal and symbolic meaning. It affirms Joseph’s role in his father’s final moments and signifies the continuation of divine promises through him.

What Does It Mean to Lay a Hand on the Eyes of the Deceased?

In ancient customs, it was the duty of a close relative, typically the firstborn son, to gently close the eyes of the deceased. This act symbolized honor, respect, and familial duty. The practice was widespread in the ancient Near East, particularly in patriarchal families, where the eldest son had the responsibility of ensuring that proper burial rites were followed. By stating that Joseph would perform this act, Jehovah was affirming Joseph’s prominence in Jacob’s household despite not being the literal firstborn.

The Right of the Firstborn – Traditionally, the firstborn son held a privileged position, including authority over the family and a double portion of the inheritance (Deuteronomy 21:17). Although Reuben was Jacob’s firstborn, his transgression with Bilhah (Genesis 35:22) led to his loss of this position. As 1 Chronicles 5:2 explains, “Although Judah became superior among his brothers and a leader came from him, the birthright belonged to Joseph.” By stating that Joseph would close Jacob’s eyes, Jehovah was signifying that Joseph had received this right in a practical sense.
A Personal and Emotional Gesture – Closing the eyes of a deceased loved one was an intimate act, often performed by the closest relative. For Jacob, who had long believed Joseph to be dead (Genesis 37:33-35), hearing that Joseph would be the one to close his eyes must have been deeply reassuring. It affirmed their reunion and underscored that Joseph would be with him in his final moments.

How Did This Affirm Joseph’s Role in God’s Plan?

Jacob’s journey to Egypt was not just a family migration but a significant moment in biblical history. Jehovah reassured Jacob that He would be with him and that his descendants would eventually return to the Promised Land (Genesis 46:3-4). The statement about Joseph laying his hand on Jacob’s eyes was therefore more than just a personal promise—it emphasized that Joseph was the key instrument in fulfilling God’s purpose for Israel in Egypt.

Joseph’s Authority Over His Brothers – By this time, Joseph was the highest-ranking official in Egypt under Pharaoh (Genesis 41:41-44). His position allowed him to provide for his family during the famine and ensure their survival. That Joseph, not Judah or Reuben, would perform this final act for Jacob highlights his continued authority and role in God’s plan.
Foreshadowing of Israel’s Future Deliverance – Joseph’s role in Egypt was a stepping stone to the fulfillment of God’s covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15:13-14). Although Jacob’s descendants would be enslaved in Egypt, Joseph’s leadership ensured their survival and eventual growth into a great nation.

How Does This Compare with Other Biblical Deathbed Scenes?

The act of closing the eyes of the deceased appears in various forms throughout Scripture:

Abraham’s Death – When Abraham died, he was “gathered to his people” (Genesis 25:8), an idiomatic expression signifying a peaceful death surrounded by family. It is likely that Isaac, his son of promise, performed the act of closing his eyes.
Moses’ Death – Unlike Jacob, Moses had no close relative to perform this act, as he died alone under Jehovah’s care (Deuteronomy 34:5-6). However, this emphasizes how unique Jacob’s situation was—he not only had his family present, but the son he had mourned as lost would be the one to give him final honors.
Jesus and the Widow’s Son – When Jesus resurrected the widow’s son in Nain, the act of touching the bier (coffin) was highly significant (Luke 7:14). In Jewish customs, this would normally be done by family members, signifying care and concern. Similarly, Joseph’s role in closing Jacob’s eyes symbolized deep familial love and the fulfillment of responsibility.

Conclusion

Genesis 46:4 is not merely a statement of physical closure but one of spiritual reassurance. By declaring that Joseph would lay his hand on Jacob’s eyes, Jehovah affirmed Joseph’s role as the honored firstborn, solidified the fulfillment of His promises, and emphasized the deep familial restoration that had taken place. This act, rich in cultural and spiritual meaning, stands as a testimony to God’s faithfulness in preserving His people and guiding them according to His divine plan.

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About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).