Genesis 41:34
New International Version
Let Pharaoh appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.

New Living Translation
Then Pharaoh should appoint supervisors over the land and let them collect one-fifth of all the crops during the seven good years.

English Standard Version
Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years.

Berean Standard Bible
Let Pharaoh take action and appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.

Berean Literal Bible
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land and let him take a fifth of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance.

King James Bible
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years.

New King James Version
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, to collect one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven plentiful years.

New American Standard Bible
Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers in charge of the land, and let him take a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt as a tax in the seven years of abundance.

NASB 1995
“Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers in charge of the land, and let him exact a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance.

NASB 1977
“Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers in charge of the land, and let him exact a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance.

Legacy Standard Bible
Let Pharaoh take action and appoint overseers over the land, and let him exact a fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance.

Amplified Bible
Let Pharaoh take action to appoint overseers and officials over the land, and set aside one-fifth [of the produce] of the [entire] land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance.

Berean Annotated Bible
Let Pharaoh (great house) take action and appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest [a fifth from the land] of Egypt (land of bondage) during the seven years of abundance.

Christian Standard Bible
Let Pharaoh do this: Let him appoint overseers over the land and take a fifth of the harvest of the land of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.

Holman Christian Standard Bible
Let Pharaoh do this: Let him appoint overseers over the land and take a fifth of the harvest of the land of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.

American Standard Version
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years.

Contemporary English Version
Then appoint some other officials to collect one fifth of every crop harvested in Egypt during the seven years when there is plenty.

English Revised Version
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years.

GOD'S WORD® Translation
Make arrangements to appoint supervisors over the land to take a fifth of Egypt's harvest during the seven good years.

Good News Translation
You must also appoint other officials and take a fifth of the crops during the seven years of plenty.

International Standard Version
Also, let Pharaoh immediately proceed to appoint supervisors over the land of Egypt, who will collect one fifth of its agricultural production during the coming seven years of abundance.

NET Bible
Pharaoh should do this--he should appoint officials throughout the land to collect one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.

New Heart English Bible
Pharaoh should do this, and should appoint overseers over the land, and they should take a fifth of all the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.

Webster's Bible Translation
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years.
Majority Text Translations
Majority Standard Bible
Let Pharaoh take action and appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.

World English Bible
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt’s produce in the seven plenteous years.
Literal Translations
Literal Standard Version
let Pharaoh make and appoint overseers over the land, and receive a fifth of the land of Egypt in the seven years of plenty,

Berean Literal Bible
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land and let him take a fifth of the land of Egypt in the seven years of abundance.

Young's Literal Translation
let Pharaoh make and appoint overseers over the land, and receive a fifth of the land of Egypt in the seven years of plenty,

Smith's Literal Translation
And will Pharaoh make and appoint overseers over the land, exacting a fifth part of the land of Egypt, in the seven years of plenty.
Catholic Translations
Douay-Rheims Bible
That he may appoint overseers over all the countries: and gather into barns the fifth part of the fruits, during the seven fruitful years,

Catholic Public Domain Version
so that he may appoint overseers throughout all the regions. And let a fifth part of the fruits, throughout the seven fertile years

New American Bible
Let Pharaoh act and appoint overseers for the land to organize it during the seven years of abundance.

New Revised Standard Version
Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land, and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plenteous years.
Translations from Aramaic
Lamsa Bible
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land of Egypt to take the fifth part of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plenteous years.

Peshitta Holy Bible Translated
And Pharaoh should go through and let him place a Governor over the land of Egypt, and they should take one fifth in the land of Egypt in the seven years of plenty.
OT Translations
JPS Tanakh 1917
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven years of plenty.

Brenton Septuagint Translation
And let Pharao make and appoint local governors over the land; and let them take up a fifth part of all the produce of the land of Egypt for the seven years of the plenty.

Additional Translations ...
Audio Bible



Context
Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dreams
33Now, therefore, Pharaoh should look for a discerning and wise man and set him over the land of Egypt. 34Let Pharaoh take action and appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance. 35Under the authority of Pharaoh, let them collect all the excess food from these good years, that they may come and lay up the grain to be preserved as food in the cities.…

Cross References
Let Pharaoh take action

Proverbs 15:22
Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.

Proverbs 20:18
Set plans by consultation, and wage war under sound guidance.

Proverbs 11:14
For lack of guidance, a nation falls, but with many counselors comes deliverance.
and appoint commissioners over the land

2 Chronicles 19:5-7
He appointed judges in the land, in each of the fortified cities of Judah. / Then he said to the judges, “Consider carefully what you do, for you are not judging for man, but for the LORD, who is with you when you render judgment. / And now, may the fear of the LORD be upon you. Be careful what you do, for with the LORD our God there is no injustice or partiality or bribery.”

Deuteronomy 16:18
You are to appoint judges and officials for your tribes in every town that the LORD your God is giving you. They are to judge the people with righteous judgment.

Exodus 18:21-22
Furthermore, select capable men from among the people—God-fearing, trustworthy men who are averse to dishonest gain. Appoint them over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. / Have these men judge the people at all times. Then they can bring you any major issue, but all minor cases they can judge on their own, so that your load may be lightened as they share it with you.
to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt

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.”

1 Samuel 8:15-17
He will take a tenth of your grain and grape harvest and give it to his officials and servants. / And he will take your menservants and maidservants and your best cattle and donkeys and put them to his own use. / He will take a tenth of your flocks, and you yourselves will become his slaves.

Leviticus 27:30
Thus any tithe from the land, whether from the seed of the land or the fruit of the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD.
during the seven years of abundance.

Proverbs 10:5
He who gathers in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.

Proverbs 6:6-8
Walk in the manner of the ant, O slacker; observe its ways and become wise. / Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, / it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food at harvest.

Proverbs 30:25
The ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer;
Proverbs 21:20
Precious treasures and oil are in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man consumes them.

Exodus 23:10-11
For six years you are to sow your land and gather its produce, / but in the seventh year you must let it rest and lie fallow, so that the poor among your people may eat from the field and the wild animals may consume what they leave. Do the same with your vineyard and olive grove.

Leviticus 25:20-22
Now you may wonder, ‘What will we eat in the seventh year if we do not sow or gather our produce?’ / But I will send My blessing upon you in the sixth year, so that the land will yield a crop sufficient for three years. / While you are sowing in the eighth year, you will be eating from the previous harvest, until the ninth year’s harvest comes in.

1 Kings 4:7
Solomon had twelve governors over all Israel to provide food for the king and his household. Each one would arrange provisions for one month of the year,


Treasury of Scripture

Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years.

officers.

Numbers 31:14
And Moses was wroth with the officers of the host, with the captains over thousands, and captains over hundreds, which came from the battle.

2 Kings 11:11,12
And the guard stood, every man with his weapons in his hand, round about the king, from the right corner of the temple to the left corner of the temple, along by the altar and the temple…

2 Chronicles 34:12
And the men did the work faithfully: and the overseers of them were Jahath and Obadiah, the Levites, of the sons of Merari; and Zechariah and Meshullam, of the sons of the Kohathites, to set it forward; and other of the Levites, all that could skill of instruments of musick.

and take.

Job 5:20
In famine he shall redeem thee from death: and in war from the power of the sword.

Psalm 33:19
To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.

Proverbs 6:6-8
Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: …

Jump to Previous
Abundance Action Appoint Charge Commissioners Egypt Egypt's Exact Fifth Good Harvest Officers Overseers Part Pharaoh Plenteous Plenty Proceed Produce Receive Seven
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Abundance Action Appoint Charge Commissioners Egypt Egypt's Exact Fifth Good Harvest Officers Overseers Part Pharaoh Plenteous Plenty Proceed Produce Receive Seven
Genesis 41
1. Pharaoh has two dreams.
9. Joseph interprets them.
33. He gives Pharaoh counsel, and is highly advanced, and married.
46. The seven years of plenty.
50. He begets children.
53. The famine begins.












Let Pharaoh take action
This phrase indicates a call to decisive leadership. In the context of ancient Egypt, Pharaoh was seen as a god-king, possessing ultimate authority. Joseph's advice to Pharaoh underscores the need for proactive governance, especially in times of impending crisis. This reflects a biblical principle of wise stewardship and preparation, as seen in Proverbs 6:6-8, where the ant is commended for preparing its provisions in summer.

and appoint commissioners over the land
The appointment of commissioners suggests a structured and organized approach to governance. In ancient Egypt, officials were often appointed to oversee various regions and tasks, reflecting a bureaucratic system. This mirrors the biblical theme of delegation and shared responsibility, as seen in Exodus 18:21-22, where Moses appoints leaders to help judge the people.

to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt
The instruction to take a fifth, or 20%, of the harvest indicates a significant but manageable portion, ensuring that the people could still sustain themselves while preparing for future famine. This reflects the principle of tithing and saving, as seen in Genesis 47:24, where a similar portion is set aside for Pharaoh. It also highlights the importance of foresight and planning in resource management.

during the seven years of abundance
The seven years of abundance were a period of prosperity that preceded the seven years of famine, as revealed in Pharaoh's dreams interpreted by Joseph. The number seven often symbolizes completeness or divine perfection in the Bible, as seen in the creation week in Genesis 1. This period of abundance was a divine provision, allowing Egypt to prepare for the coming hardship, illustrating God's sovereignty and provision.

Persons / Places / Events
1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who is advised by Joseph to prepare for the coming famine.

2. Joseph
A Hebrew man who interprets Pharaoh's dreams and provides a plan to save Egypt from famine.

3. Egypt
The land where this event takes place, known for its agricultural wealth and strategic importance in the ancient world.

4. Commissioners
Officials to be appointed by Pharaoh to oversee the collection of a portion of the harvest.

5. Seven Years of Abundance
A period of prosperity predicted by Joseph, which precedes seven years of famine.
Teaching Points
Wisdom in Preparation
Joseph's advice to Pharaoh underscores the importance of preparing for future challenges. As believers, we are called to be prudent and wise stewards of the resources God provides.

God's Sovereignty and Provision
This passage reminds us that God is in control and provides solutions to impending crises. Trusting in His plan is crucial, even when circumstances seem dire.

Leadership and Responsibility
Pharaoh's willingness to listen to Joseph and appoint commissioners demonstrates effective leadership. In our lives, we should seek wise counsel and take responsibility for implementing sound strategies.

Faith in Action
Joseph's faith in God led him to act decisively. Our faith should likewise inspire us to take practical steps in addressing the needs around us.

Community and Cooperation
The appointment of commissioners highlights the need for collective effort in achieving common goals. As a community of believers, working together enhances our ability to serve and support one another.
Bible Study Questions and Answers
1. What is the meaning of Genesis 41:34?

2. How can we apply Joseph's advice to "appoint commissioners" in our church today?

3. What does Genesis 41:34 teach about wise stewardship and resource management?

4. How does Joseph's plan in Genesis 41:34 reflect God's provision and foresight?

5. In what ways can we prepare for future challenges, as advised in Genesis 41:34?

6. How does Genesis 41:34 connect with Proverbs' teachings on wisdom and planning?

7. How does Genesis 41:34 reflect God's sovereignty in planning for future events?

8. What does Genesis 41:34 teach about the importance of wise leadership and governance?

9. How does the directive in Genesis 41:34 demonstrate God's provision for His people?

10. What are the top 10 Lessons from Genesis 41?

11. If Joseph became a high-ranking Egyptian official, why is there no Egyptian record of him?

12. Does Genesis depict Joseph's actions as socialist?

13. Should Christians purchase insurance policies?

14. What is the Bible's perspective on inflation?
What Does Genesis 41:34 Mean
Let Pharaoh take action

– Joseph’s very first word is urgency. The crisis God revealed through the dreams (Genesis 41:25–32) demands decisive leadership, not endless debate.

• Scripture repeatedly shows that timely obedience safeguards people: see Proverbs 10:5 (“He who gathers in summer is a prudent son”) and James 1:22 (“Be doers of the word”).

• Joseph’s confidence rests in God’s sovereign plan, yet he still calls Pharaoh to move. Both truths — God’s control and human responsibility — run side by side (Proverbs 21:1; Romans 13:3-4).


and appoint commissioners over the land

– Joseph proposes delegation. One ruler cannot manage an empire-wide project alone.

• This follows the pattern later commended to Moses by Jethro (Exodus 18:21) and practiced by the apostles (Acts 6:3).

• Wise leaders recognize, equip, and authorize others (1 Corinthians 12:28).

• It also spreads accountability: many eyes watching the storehouses protect against corruption (Proverbs 11:14).


to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt

– Twenty percent is substantial but not crippling, reflecting both generosity of supply and prudence in saving.

• The ant in Proverbs 6:6-8 “stores its provisions in summer” as a model.

• Later, when famine hits, the stored grain preserves countless lives and even strengthens Egypt’s position (Genesis 47:24-25).

• The principle endures: set aside during plenty so that needs are met in scarcity (1 Corinthians 16:2; 2 Corinthians 9:6).


during the seven years of abundance

– The instruction is time-bound. God revealed clear seasons: seven of plenty, seven of famine (Genesis 41:29-31).

• Abundance can lull people into presuming it will always be so (Deuteronomy 8:11-18). Joseph refuses that illusion.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-2 reminds us every season has its purpose; the prudent recognize God-ordained rhythms and act accordingly (Proverbs 27:12).

• By storing grain only while the surplus lasts, Egypt avoids waste and honors the principle that today’s gifts are stewardship for tomorrow’s needs (Luke 16:10).


summary

Genesis 41:34 presents a Spirit-inspired plan for surviving future hardship: swift leadership, shared responsibility, disciplined saving, and season-sensitive obedience. God reveals the problem and its timetable; Joseph supplies a practical, righteous solution; Pharaoh must choose to act. When abundance comes, the wise steward it for God’s glory and for the good of others, confident that the Lord who foretold the future will also bless faithful preparation.

(34) Take up the fifth part of the land.--Heb., let him fifth the land, that is, exact a fifth part of the produce. It has been supposed that it had been usual in Egypt to pay to the king a tithe of the crop, and the doubling of the impost would not press very heavily on the people in these years of extraordinary abundance. As the reason of the enactment would be made known, it would also induce all careful people to store up a portion of their own superabundance for future need. Subsequently, a fifth of the produce was fixed by Joseph permanently as the king's rent.



Parallel Commentaries ...


Hebrew
Let Pharaoh
פַרְעֹ֔ה (p̄ar·‘ōh)
Noun - proper - masculine singular
Strong's 6547: Pharaoh -- a title of Egypt kings

take action
יַעֲשֶׂ֣ה (ya·‘ă·śeh)
Verb - Qal - Imperfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6213: To do, make

and appoint
וְיַפְקֵ֥ד (wə·yap̄·qêḏ)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Hifil - Conjunctive imperfect Jussive - third person masculine singular
Strong's 6485: To visit, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit

commissioners
פְּקִדִ֖ים (pə·qi·ḏîm)
Noun - masculine plural
Strong's 6496: Commissioner, deputy, overseer

over
עַל־ (‘al-)
Preposition
Strong's 5921: Above, over, upon, against

the land
הָאָ֑רֶץ (hā·’ā·reṣ)
Article | Noun - feminine singular
Strong's 776: Earth, land

to take a fifth
וְחִמֵּשׁ֙ (wə·ḥim·mêš)
Conjunctive waw | Verb - Piel - Conjunctive perfect - third person masculine singular
Strong's 2567: To take the fifth part

of [its] harvest
אֶ֣רֶץ (’e·reṣ)
Noun - feminine singular construct
Strong's 776: Earth, land

during the seven
בְּשֶׁ֖בַע (bə·še·ḇa‘)
Preposition-b | Number - feminine singular
Strong's 7651: Seven, seven times, a week, an indefinite number

years
שְׁנֵ֥י (šə·nê)
Noun - feminine plural construct
Strong's 8141: A year

of abundance.
הַשָּׂבָֽע׃ (haś·śā·ḇā‘)
Article | Noun - masculine singular
Strong's 7647: Plenty, satiety


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OT Law: Genesis 41:34 Let Pharaoh do this and let him (Gen. Ge Gn)
Genesis 41:33
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