Why and How Did Israel End Up in Egypt?

The story of Israel’s arrival in Egypt is found in the Book of Genesis (chapters 37–50). It all starts with Joseph, the son of Jacob (Israel), and his journey from slavery to leadership in Egypt. Here’s how it happened:

1. Joseph Was Sold into Slavery (Genesis 37)

Joseph, Jacob’s favorite son, had dreams that suggested he would rule over his brothers.
His jealous brothers plotted against him and sold him to Midianite traders for 20 pieces of silver.
The traders took Joseph to Egypt, where he was sold to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh.

2. Joseph Rose to Power in Egypt (Genesis 39-41)

Joseph was falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife and imprisoned.
In prison, he interpreted dreams, which eventually led to Pharaoh calling him to interpret his troubling dreams about a coming famine.
Joseph correctly predicted seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine.
Pharaoh appointed Joseph as second-in-command (vizier) over Egypt, placing him in charge of preparing for the famine.

3. The Famine Forced Jacob’s Family to Egypt (Genesis 42-46)

When the famine struck, Jacob (Israel) and his sons in Canaan were starving.
Hearing that Egypt had food, Jacob sent his sons to buy grain—not knowing Joseph was in charge.
After testing his brothers, Joseph revealed himself to them and forgave them.
He invited his entire family (about 70 people) to move to Egypt for safety.

4. Israel Settled in Egypt (Genesis 47)

Pharaoh welcomed Jacob and his family and gave them the land of Goshen, a fertile area in Egypt.
The Israelites lived peacefully in Egypt for several generations and grew into a large nation.

5. From Prosperity to Slavery (Exodus 1:8-14)

After Joseph died, a new Pharaoh “who did not know Joseph” came to power.
Seeing how numerous and strong the Israelites had become, Pharaoh enslaved them out of fear.
This led to their harsh oppression, setting the stage for Moses and the Exodus.

Summary: Why Did Israel End Up in Egypt?

✔ God’s Plan: Joseph’s story shows how God used even bad situations (betrayal and slavery) to protect His people.
✔ Famine in Canaan: Forced Jacob and his sons to seek food in Egypt.
✔ Joseph’s High Position: Allowed his family to find safety and settle in Egypt.
✔ Growth of Israel: They became a large and strong nation while in Egypt.

This ultimately led to the Exodus, where God rescued Israel from slavery through Moses, fulfilling His promise to make them a great nation.