What does Genesis 50:3 mean?
The man God renamed Israel (Genesis 35:10–11) has died (Genesis 49:33). Jacob's son, Joseph, second in command over the nation of Egypt (Genesis 41:44), has ordered his father's body to be embalmed (Genesis 50:1–2). Egyptian mummification varied from era to era, but it was usually an extensive process. Typical steps included removal of internal organs, insertion of spices into the body, and extensive soaking in preserving liquids.In addition, all of Egypt seems to enter a period of state-sponsored mourning for Joseph's father. Scholars indicate the standard period of mourning following the death of a Pharaoh was 72 days. Jacob was mourned in Egypt for 70 days, an enormous honor for the shepherd from whom the people of Israel would take their name.