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Goshen

Goshen Region

RegionOld Testament
30.8500°N, 31.8500°E View on Map

About Goshen

Goshen was a fertile region in the eastern Nile Delta where Joseph settled his father Jacob and his brothers. The Israelites lived here for over 400 years, growing from a family into a nation. During the plagues, Goshen was protected from the judgments on Egypt.

Events at Goshen

The ten plagues of Egypt
The ten plagues of Egypt

Goshen · EXO 7:14

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The first Passover
The first Passover

Goshen · EXO 12:21

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JosephLinked to this placeJosephSettled his family in Goshen near him

History of Goshen

  1. Patriarchal~1876 BC

    Joseph settles his family in Goshen, the best land in Egypt

    GEN 47:1-6

  2. Patriarchal~1876-1446 BC

    Israel multiplies greatly in Goshen for 400 years

    EXO 1:7

  3. Exodus~1446 BC

    God protects Goshen during the plagues - no flies, hail, or darkness there

    EXO 8:22, 9:26, 10:23

  4. Exodus~1446 BC

    Israel departs from Goshen during the Exodus

    EXO 12:37

Notable Characters in Goshen

Joseph
Joseph

Settled his family in Goshen near him

Jacob
Jacob

Lived his final years in Goshen

Moses
Moses

Led Israel out from Goshen

Locations Related to Goshen

Egypt
Egypt

Goshen was in the eastern Nile delta of Egypt

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Canaan
Canaan

Israel left Goshen to return to Canaan

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Biblical Significance of Goshen

Goshen was the fertile region in the eastern Nile delta where Jacob's family settled. It was ideal for their flocks and separated them from Egyptian society (Egyptians despised shepherds). During the plagues, God made a distinction - Goshen was protected while Egypt suffered. This 'separation' foreshadowed Israel's unique status as God's people. Goshen represents divine provision and protection amid judgment.

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