The answer is: Goshen

Gen 47:27

When Jacob and his family arrived in Egypt, they settled in the region of Goshen, a fertile area located in the northeastern part of Egypt. This choice was significant because it allowed the Israelites to prosper during a time of famine in Canaan. Goshen was not only verdant but also well-suited for livestock; Jacob's family was primarily herdsmen. This clever strategic positioning helped them thrive and multiply as a community, despite being in a foreign land.

The name "Goshen" is often associated with the Hebrew word "gosh," which can mean "drawing near" in a literal sense. It symbolizes how they were about to draw nearer to their new adventures and challenges in Egypt, and the ultimately crucial role this land would play in their identity and destiny.

Interestingly, Genesis depicts a series of intricate connections between Egypt and the Israelites, foreshadowing enduring narratives in the Bible about exodus, slavery, and liberation. Think of Moses later returning to Egypt for a full-circle moment!

In geopolitical terms, Goshen was advantageous during this ancient era with trade and food supply possibilities booming in this region, especially when one considers the impact of the Nile River on agriculture and prosperity.

So, as the first home away from home for Jacob and his descendants, Goshen serves as a backdrop for pivotal events that transformed their lives — setting the stage for the rich, complex stories of survival, faith, and identity that would follow.