Genesis 47:24

At harvest time, you are to give a fifth of it to Pharaoh, and four-fifths will be yours as seed for the field and food for yourselves and your households and children."

Study Bible

At harvest time
The phrase "at harvest time" refers to the period when the crops are gathered from the fields. In the ancient Near Eastern context, harvest was a critical time of year, marking the culmination of a season's labor and the provision of sustenance for the coming year. The Hebrew word for "harvest" is "קָצִיר" (qatsir), which signifies the act of reaping. This time was often associated with joy and thanksgiving, as it was a tangible sign of God's provision and blessing.

you are to give a fifth of it to Pharaoh
The instruction to "give a fifth" indicates a tax or tribute system established by Joseph during the famine in Egypt. The Hebrew word for "fifth" is "חֹמֶשׁ" (chomesh), which means one-fifth or 20%. This system was a practical solution to ensure the survival of both the Egyptian people and the royal treasury. It reflects Joseph's wisdom and administrative skills, as well as the principle of stewardship and responsibility. The giving of a portion to Pharaoh acknowledges the authority and provision of the state, which, in this context, was a means of survival during a time of crisis.

and four-fifths will be yours
The phrase "four-fifths will be yours" highlights the generosity and fairness of the arrangement. The majority of the produce remains with the people, allowing them to sustain themselves and their families. This division underscores the balance between contributing to the common good and retaining enough for personal needs. It reflects a principle of equity and sufficiency, ensuring that the people are not overburdened by the tax.

as seed for the fields
The mention of "seed for the fields" emphasizes the importance of planning for future harvests. The Hebrew word for "seed" is "זֶרַע" (zera), which also means offspring or descendants, symbolizing continuity and future growth. This provision ensures that the cycle of sowing and reaping can continue, highlighting the necessity of foresight and preparation in agricultural societies. It is a reminder of the ongoing dependence on God's provision through the natural order.

and as food for yourselves
The phrase "as food for yourselves" indicates the immediate need for sustenance. The Hebrew word for "food" is "אָכְלָה" (oklah), which refers to nourishment or sustenance. This provision ensures that the people have enough to eat, reflecting God's care for their daily needs. It is a reminder of the Lord's Prayer, where Jesus teaches us to ask for our "daily bread," acknowledging our dependence on God's provision.

and your households
The term "households" encompasses the broader family unit, including servants and dependents. The Hebrew word "בַּיִת" (bayit) means house or household, signifying the extended family structure common in ancient times. This provision ensures that all members of the household are cared for, reflecting the biblical principle of community and mutual support.

and children
The inclusion of "children" highlights the importance of providing for the next generation. The Hebrew word "טַף" (taf) refers to little ones or children, emphasizing their vulnerability and dependence. This provision ensures that the needs of the youngest and most vulnerable are met, reflecting the biblical value of caring for and nurturing children. It underscores the responsibility of parents and society to ensure the well-being and future of the next generation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob who rose to power in Egypt. He is the one implementing the policy of giving a fifth of the harvest to Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who benefits from Joseph's management of the famine crisis.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph serves as a high-ranking official and where the Israelites find refuge during the famine.

4. The Egyptians
The people who are subject to the policy of giving a portion of their harvest to Pharaoh.

5. Famine
The severe shortage of food that led to Joseph's policy to ensure survival and prosperity in Egypt.

Teaching Points

Stewardship and Responsibility
Joseph's policy teaches us about wise stewardship and the importance of planning for the future. As Christians, we are called to manage our resources responsibly.

Submission to Authority
The Egyptians' compliance with Joseph's policy reflects the biblical principle of submitting to authority, as long as it does not contradict God's commands.

Provision and Trust
This passage reminds us of God's provision through difficult times. Just as Joseph provided for Egypt, we can trust God to provide for our needs.

Generosity and Sharing
The allocation of a portion of the harvest to Pharaoh can be seen as a form of giving. Christians are encouraged to be generous and share their blessings with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's management of the famine in Egypt demonstrate principles of wise stewardship that we can apply in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the policy of giving a fifth of the harvest to Pharaoh reflect the biblical principle of submission to authority?

3. How can we see God's provision in our lives during times of scarcity, similar to how He provided for Egypt through Joseph?

4. What are some practical ways we can practice generosity and sharing in our communities today?

5. How does the concept of setting aside a portion of our resources for a higher purpose relate to the New Testament teachings on giving and tithing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's rise to power and the interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which led to the preparation for the famine.

Leviticus 27
Discusses the concept of tithing and giving a portion of one's produce to God, similar to the giving of a fifth to Pharaoh.

Romans 13
Talks about the role of government and the Christian's responsibility to submit to governing authorities, which can be related to the Egyptians' submission to Pharaoh's rule.

Proverbs 3:9-10
Encourages honoring God with one's wealth, which parallels the idea of setting aside a portion of one's increase for a higher purpose.