What does Hebrews 11:22 mean?

Explanation

Hebrews 11:22 speaks specifically of the patriarch Joseph, who is recognized for his faith in God's promises to Israel.

The verse refers to Joseph’s actions before his death, where he spoke of the exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, a nation where they lived but were eventually enslaved, and he instructed that his bones be carried out of Egypt when that destined departure occurred.

This action by Joseph highlights his firm belief in God's promise to Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land of Canaan.

Joseph's request to have his bones moved upon the Israelites' exit from Egypt symbolizes his longing to be part of the fulfillment of this divine promise.

Historical Context

This verse is part of the New Testament's Epistle to the Hebrews, which was likely written before the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple in 70 A.D.

The epistle often references the Old Testament to demonstrate the superiority of Jesus Christ and the new covenant He established.

Historically, Joseph lived in Egypt where he rose to power second only to the Pharaoh.

Though he had significant influence in Egypt, he remained tied to God's promises to his forebearers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Hebrews 11 recounts various acts of faith by Old Testament figures to encourage believers to have similar faith in the promises of God.

Theological Insights

Within the Christian tradition, Joseph's actions demonstrate a type of faith that is forward-looking and anchored in God's promises. This faith transcends immediate circumstances and even life itself.

Theologically, the verse supports the belief in the providence and faithfulness of God, suggesting that He honors the faith of those who trust in His word.

It also carries a typological significance, where Joseph's request to have his bones moved to the Promised Land points toward the believer's ultimate rest and inheritance in the kingdom of God.

Practical Applications

Hebrews 11:22 can be applied practically in multiple ways. It serves as an encouragement for believers to trust in God's promises for the future, even when current circumstances are not favorable.

Additionally, just as Joseph made preparations for a future event based on God's promises, individuals are inspired to act today in a manner that aligns with their faith and future hope.

This could relate to making decisions that reflect long-term heavenly rewards rather than short-term earthly benefits.

Cross-References

• Genesis 50:24-25 – "And Joseph said unto his brethren, I die: and God will surely visit you, and bring you out of this land unto the land which he sware to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob.

And Joseph took an oath of the children of Israel, saying, God will surely visit you, and ye shall carry up my bones from hence."

• Exodus 13:19 – "And Moses took the bones of Joseph with him: for he had straitly sworn the children of Israel, saying, God will surely visit you; and ye shall carry up my bones away hence with you."
• Joshua 24:32 – "And the bones of Joseph, which the children of Israel brought up out of Egypt, buried they in Shechem, in a parcel of ground which Jacob bought of the sons of Hamor the father of Shechem for an hundred pieces of silver: and it became the inheritance of the children of Joseph."

Language Study

• "By faith" (πίστει, pistei) – This phrase recurs throughout Hebrews 11 and refers to a deep trust or conviction in things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).
• "Mention of the departing" (μνημονεύσας τῆς ἐξόδου, mnēmoneusas tēs exodou) – The word used here for "departing" is ἐξοδος (exodos), which is the same word used for Exodus, denoting the Israelites' departure from Egypt.
• "Gave commandment" (ἐνετείλατο, eneteilato) - This term reflects a strong directive or instruction that was given regarding his bones.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The practice of reburial or transfer of bones in ancient times was not unique to the Israelites.

Ancient Egyptian culture also placed great importance on the treatment of the deceased, believing that proper burial was linked to the afterlife.

Similar themes appear in other ancient cultures, where the connection between the deceased and their ancestral land was considered significant.

In the Hebrew tradition, being buried in one's own land was also a sign of honor and fulfillment of divine promise.

Scientific Perspectives

While this verse primarily deals with matters of faith, a scientific perspective can examine the practices of ancient embalming and the significance of burial customs in the cultural context.

Modern archeology and anthropology can provide insights into these practices and how they were carried out, although any intersection with the concept of faith as expressed in this verse is purely interpretive and not within the domain of scientific analysis.

Commentaries

Experts typically view Hebrews 11:22 as part of a larger discourse on faith.

Matthew Henry's Commentary, for example, highlights Joseph's faith in God's promise as remarkable because the fulfillment seemed unlikely at the time of his death.

The Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary also notes that the verse illustrates the strength of Joseph's faith and his identification with the people of God.

These commentaries underscore the way Joseph's faith was actualized in his instructions concerning his remains, a faith that looked to future generations and the fulfillment of God's promises.