What does Genesis 49:29 mean?

Each of Jacob's twelve sons has heard their father's prediction about the future of their offspring (Genesis 49:1–2). These are described using the term "blessing," though the prophecies are not always positive, the way the English term "bless" would normally imply. In part, Jacob has described how they will one day return to the land of Canaan to fulfill various roles and purposes there.

As Jacob was leaving the land to move with his large family to Egypt, God promised to be with him there. He also promised to bring Jacob back (Genesis 46:2–4). Now Jacob relies on his sons to be the instrument by which God keeps that promise. He once again (Genesis 47:29–30) commands his sons to ensure he is buried in the Promised Land, not in Egypt. Specifically, Jacob mentions the family burial cave in the field of Ephron the Hittite. This is the cave purchased by Abraham when Sarah died (Genesis 23:17–20).