Genesis 45:6

For the famine has covered the land these two years, and there will be five more years without plowing or harvesting.

Study Bible

For the famine
The Hebrew word for "famine" is "רָעָב" (ra'av), which signifies a severe shortage of food. In the ancient Near East, famines were often seen as divine judgments or tests. This particular famine was part of God's sovereign plan to bring Joseph's family to Egypt, preserving them and setting the stage for the growth of the nation of Israel. Theologically, it reminds us of God's providence and His ability to use even dire circumstances for His purposes.

has covered the land
The phrase "has covered" comes from the Hebrew "הָיָה" (hayah), meaning "to be" or "to become." This indicates the pervasive and overwhelming nature of the famine. The "land" refers to the entire region, including Egypt and Canaan, emphasizing the widespread impact. Historically, such famines were devastating, affecting agriculture, economy, and daily life, and they often led to migrations and significant social changes.

these two years
The specific mention of "two years" highlights the duration of the famine up to this point. It serves as a marker of time within the narrative, showing that Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams was accurate. This precision underscores the reliability of God's revelation through Joseph, reinforcing the theme of divine wisdom and foresight.

and there will be five more years
This phrase reveals the prophetic knowledge given to Joseph. The "five more years" indicates the total duration of the famine as seven years, a number often associated with completeness or perfection in the Bible. This foresight allowed Joseph to prepare adequately, demonstrating God's provision and care for His people even in times of hardship.

without plowing or harvesting
The absence of "plowing or harvesting" signifies a complete halt in agricultural activity, which would have been catastrophic in an agrarian society. The Hebrew words "חָרַשׁ" (charash) for plowing and "קָצִיר" (qatsir) for harvesting emphasize the cessation of the normal cycle of sowing and reaping. This situation forced reliance on stored provisions, which Joseph had wisely accumulated, illustrating the importance of prudent stewardship and the blessings of obedience to God's guidance.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. He is speaking to his brothers in this passage.

2. Egypt
The land where Joseph was taken as a slave and where he eventually rose to power. It is the setting for the events of this chapter.

3. Famine
A severe shortage of food that affected Egypt and the surrounding regions, leading to Joseph's brothers coming to Egypt for grain.

4. Jacob's Family
Joseph's brothers, who come to Egypt seeking food due to the famine in Canaan.

5. God's Providence
The overarching theme of God's control and provision, as Joseph interprets the events of his life and the famine.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Joseph's account reminds us that God is in control, even in difficult circumstances. The famine was part of God's plan to preserve His people.

Preparation and Wisdom
Joseph's foresight and planning during the years of abundance teach us the importance of preparing for future challenges.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph's interaction with his brothers shows the power of forgiveness and the restoration of broken relationships.

Trust in God's Timing
The timing of the famine and Joseph's rise to power demonstrate that God's timing is perfect, even when it seems delayed to us.

Provision in Hardship
Just as God provided for Jacob's family through Joseph, He provides for us in our times of need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's understanding of the famine reflect his faith in God's sovereignty?

2. In what ways can we prepare for future challenges in our own lives, following Joseph's example?

3. How does Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers challenge us to forgive those who have wronged us?

4. What are some ways we can trust in God's timing when we face delays or setbacks?

5. How can we recognize and rely on God's provision during our own times of hardship?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41:30-31
This passage provides the context for the famine, as Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams, predicting seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine.

Psalm 105:16-17
This Psalm recounts God's sending of Joseph ahead of Israel to preserve them during the famine, highlighting God's providential care.

Romans 8:28
This New Testament verse speaks to God's ability to work all things for good, which is exemplified in Joseph's account.