As Jacob's death seemed to be approaching, he called for Joseph and made him swear to bury him in the Promised Land rather than in Egypt (cf. 24:2-3). As the father of such a person as Joseph, Jacob could have had a very fine burial. Notwithstanding his request demonstrates his preference for the promise of God rather than the acclaim of the world (cf. Moses, Heb. 11:24-25).
Placing the hand under the "thigh"was a ritual having connection with making a solemn promise (cf. 24:2-3).
Jacob worshipped God for granting his wish. He evidently prostrated himself on his bed in thanksgiving to Yahweh.
"Jacob, in life too often the cunning schemer who trusted his own wiliness to achieve his ends, now in the face of death shows that his ultimate hope is the promise of God."910
