The sudden relocation of Jacob's family to Egypt comes with a royal promise of wealth, meant to calm the natural fears of leaving behind their home and possessions. They are urged to prioritize a swift and safe journey over any attempt to preserve their material goods. Although feelings of pity and attachment reside in the heart, they are closely linked to sight, as seeing an object awakens the emotional bond to it [רד״ק, ביאור יש״ר]. Therefore, the family is instructed not to let their eyes ache over the loss of their belongings, nor should they hesitate or delay their travels out of worry for what they leave behind [שד״ל, רש ר הירש].
Moving household items across borders is difficult and burdensome. Slowing down a rescue mission merely to pack every possession is dangerous and could ultimately cause even greater harm to their livestock [ספורנו, ביאור יש״ר, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. Even if they must abandon their goods to servants and face complete financial loss, they are told to move forward without looking back [העמק דבר].
Another perspective connects this specific warning to Jacob's personal character. According to tradition, Jacob was exceptionally careful with his belongings, famously returning alone to retrieve small, seemingly insignificant items. Recognizing this trait, a direct message was sent urging him to let go of his property this time [הטור הארוך, הדר זקנים, דעת זקנים]. However, this interpretation raises some questions. Since Pharaoh issued this instruction, it is unclear how the Egyptian king would know about Jacob's personal habits. Furthermore, Jacob's extreme care for his property stemmed from a strict moral caution against theft. Therefore, offering him replacement wealth does not truly address his underlying ethical reasons for protecting his money [ברכת אשר על התורה].
The ultimate justification for abandoning their property is the promise that the very best of Egypt will be theirs. The king himself will cover their travel expenses and supply them with the finest craftsmanship the empire has to offer, eliminating any need to worry about lost items [העמק דבר, ביאור יש״ר, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. More deeply, this royal assurance signals a major shift in their status. They are no longer arriving as temporary refugees holding onto old possessions in the hope of returning home. Instead, they are coming to settle permanently, and the wealth of the land now belongs to them as full citizens [מלבי״ם]. Without realizing it, Pharaoh's invitation acts as a prophecy. His words fulfill an ancient divine promise made to Abraham, revealing that all the abundance and prosperity of Egypt were ultimately intended for the people of Israel [העמק דבר].