Genesis 47:17

So they brought their livestock to Joseph, and he gave them food in exchange for their horses, their flocks and herds, and their donkeys. Throughout that year he provided them with food in exchange for all their livestock.

Study Bible

So they brought their livestock to Joseph
In this phrase, the act of bringing livestock to Joseph signifies a desperate measure taken by the Egyptians during a severe famine. The Hebrew root for "brought" (בּוֹא, bo) implies a movement towards a place or person, indicating the people's reliance on Joseph's authority and provision. Historically, this reflects the centralized power of the Egyptian government under Pharaoh, with Joseph as his appointed steward. The livestock, a significant asset in ancient agrarian societies, represents the people's willingness to sacrifice their wealth for survival.

and he gave them food in exchange
The phrase highlights Joseph's role as a provider and sustainer during the famine. The Hebrew word for "gave" (נָתַן, natan) suggests a deliberate and generous act of provision. Joseph's actions can be seen as a foreshadowing of Christ's provision for humanity's spiritual famine. The concept of "exchange" here is crucial, as it underscores the economic transactions that sustained Egypt during this crisis, reflecting the wisdom and administrative skills Joseph possessed.

for their horses, the flocks of sheep and goats, the herds of cattle, and donkeys
This list of animals represents the wealth and livelihood of the Egyptian people. Horses were valuable for transportation and military purposes, while sheep, goats, cattle, and donkeys were essential for agriculture and daily life. The Hebrew terms for these animals emphasize their importance in the ancient world. The exchange of such valuable assets for food illustrates the severity of the famine and the people's trust in Joseph's leadership. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of stewardship and the responsible management of resources.

And he brought them through that year with food
The phrase "brought them through" indicates Joseph's successful management of the crisis. The Hebrew root (עָבַר, avar) conveys the idea of passing through or overcoming a difficult period. Joseph's provision of food symbolizes God's faithfulness in sustaining His people through trials. This narrative encourages believers to trust in God's provision and timing, even in dire circumstances.

in exchange for all their livestock
The repetition of "exchange" emphasizes the transactional nature of the arrangement. The phrase "all their livestock" underscores the totality of the Egyptians' sacrifice, highlighting their dependence on Joseph's wisdom. This scenario serves as a reminder of the cost of survival and the importance of wise leadership in times of crisis. It also points to the ultimate exchange in Christian theology: Christ's sacrifice for humanity's redemption.

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 a key figure in the preservation of his family and the Egyptian people during a severe famine.

2. Egypt
The land where Joseph served as a high-ranking official under Pharaoh. It became a place of refuge for Jacob's family during the famine.

3. Famine
A severe and widespread lack of food that affected Egypt and the surrounding regions, leading to desperate measures for survival.

4. Livestock Exchange
The event where the Egyptians traded their livestock to Joseph in exchange for food, highlighting the severity of the famine and Joseph's role in managing resources.

5. Egyptians
The people who were affected by the famine and came to Joseph for help, demonstrating the widespread impact of the crisis.

Teaching Points

Stewardship and Wisdom
Joseph's management of resources during the famine is a powerful example of wise stewardship. Believers are called to manage their resources prudently, preparing for future needs while trusting in God's provision.

God's Sovereignty in Crisis
The famine and Joseph's role in Egypt demonstrate God's sovereignty and His ability to use difficult circumstances for His purposes. Christians can find comfort in knowing that God is in control, even in times of crisis.

Compassion and Provision
Joseph's actions reflect a compassionate response to the needs of the people. Believers are encouraged to show compassion and provide for others in times of need, reflecting God's love and care.

Trust in God's Plan
The account of Joseph and the famine reminds us that God's plans are often beyond our understanding, but they are always for our good and His glory. Trusting in His plan is essential, even when circumstances seem dire.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's management of resources during the famine reflect principles of wise stewardship, and how can we apply these principles in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and the famine demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our response to personal crises?

3. How can we show compassion and provide for others in need, following Joseph's example during the famine?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Egyptians' reliance on Joseph for provision, and how does this relate to our trust in God for our daily needs?

5. How does the account of Joseph and the famine connect with other biblical teachings on trusting God's plan, and how can this encourage us in our faith journey?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and his interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which predicted the seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine.

Proverbs 6:6-8
This passage encourages wisdom and foresight, similar to Joseph's prudent management of resources during the years of plenty to prepare for the famine.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about trusting God for provision, which can be contrasted with the Egyptians' reliance on Joseph for sustenance during the famine.