31 And he said, Swear unto me. And he sware unto him. And Israel bowed himself upon the bed's head.
31 And he said, "Swear to me"; and he swore to him. Then Israel bowed himself upon the head of his bed.
31 Israel said, "Promise me." Joseph promised. Israel bowed his head in submission and gratitude from his bed.
31 Then he said, "Swear to me." And he swore to him. So Israel bowed himself on the head of the bed.
31 "Swear that you will do it," Jacob insisted. So Joseph gave his oath, and Jacob bowed humbly at the head of his bed.
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 47:31
Commentary on Genesis 47:27-31
(Read Genesis 47:27-31)
At last the time drew nigh that Israel must die. Israel, a prince with God, had power over the Angel, and prevailed, yet must die. Joseph supplied him with bread, that he might not die by famine, but that did not secure him from dying by age or sickness. He died by degrees; his candle gradually burnt down to the socket, so that he saw the time drawing nigh. It is an advantage to see the approach of death, before we feel it, that we may be quickened to do, with all our might, what our hands find to do. However, death is not far from any of us. Jacob's care, as he saw the day approach, was about his burial; not the pomp of it, but he would be buried in Canaan, because it was the land of promise. It was a type of heaven, that better country, which he declared plainly he expected, Hebrews 11:21, giving God thanks for all his favours; in feebleness thus supporting himself, expressing his willingness to leave the world. Even those who lived on Joseph's provision, and Jacob who was so dear to him, must die. But Christ Jesus gives us the true bread, that we may eat and live for ever. To Him let us come and yield ourselves, and when we draw near to death, he who supported us through life, will meet us and assure us of everlasting salvation.