◄ Genesis 40 ►
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The Cupbearer and the Baker 1Some time later, the king’s cupbearer and baker offended their master, the king of Egypt. 2Pharaoh was angry with his two officers, the chief cupbearer and the chief baker, 3and imprisoned them in the house of the captain of the guard, the same prison where Joseph was confined. 4The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he became their personal attendant. After they had been in custody for some time, 5both of these men—the Egyptian king’s cupbearer and baker, who were being held in the prison—had a dream on the same night, and each dream had its own meaning. 6When Joseph came to them in the morning, he saw that they were distraught. 7So he asked the officials of Pharaoh who were in custody with him in his master’s house, “Why are your faces so downcast today?” 8“We both had dreams,” they replied, “but there is no one to interpret them.” Then Joseph said to them, “Don’t interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.” 9So the chief cupbearer told Joseph his dream: “In my dream there was a vine before me, 10and on the vine were three branches. As it budded, its blossoms opened and its clusters ripened into grapes. 11Pharaoh’s cup was in my hand, and I took the grapes, squeezed them into his cup, and placed the cup in his hand.” 12Joseph replied, “This is the interpretation: The three branches are three days. 13Within three days Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore your position. You will put Pharaoh’s cup in his hand, just as you did when you were his cupbearer. 14But when it goes well for you, please remember me and show me kindness by mentioning me to Pharaoh, that he might bring me out of this prison. 15For I was kidnapped from the land of the Hebrews, and even here I have done nothing for which they should have put me in this dungeon.” 16When the chief baker saw that the interpretation was favorable, he said to Joseph, “I too had a dream: There were three baskets of white bread on my head. 17In the top basket were all sorts of baked goods for Pharaoh, but the birds were eating them out of the basket on my head.” 18Joseph replied, “This is the interpretation: The three baskets are three days. 19Within three days Pharaoh will lift off your head and hang you on a tree.a Then the birds will eat the flesh of your body.” 20On the third day, which was Pharaoh’s birthday, he held a feast for all his officials, and in their presence he lifted up the heads of the chief cupbearer and the chief baker. 21Pharaoh restored the chief cupbearer to his position, so that he once again placed the cup in Pharaoh’s hand. 22But Pharaoh hanged the chief baker, just as Joseph had described to them in his interpretation.b 23The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot all about him. Footnotes: 19 a Or and impale you on a pole; similarly in verse 22 22 b Literally had interpreted to them Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Genesis 40 Summary The Cupbearer and the Baker Verses 1–4 – Royal Servants Behind Bars Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker offend their master and are consigned to the same prison where Joseph is already confined. The captain of the guard assigns Joseph to attend them, and they remain in custody for some time. Verses 5–8 – Restless Nights, Divine Interpretations Both men experience vivid dreams on the same night. Distressed because no court magicians are available, they share their plight with Joseph. He responds, “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.” Verses 9–15 – Three Vines, Three Days, One Restored Life The cupbearer sees a vine with three branches that bud, blossom, and produce clusters of grapes, which he presses into Pharaoh’s cup. Joseph reveals God’s meaning: within three days the cupbearer will be restored to his post. Joseph pleads to be remembered and released, explaining his innocence. Verses 16–19 – Three Baskets, Three Days, One Lost Life Encouraged by the favorable first message, the baker relates his dream of three baskets of bread on his head, with birds eating the baked goods. Joseph soberly explains that in three days Pharaoh will lift up the baker’s head—removing it from him—and birds will feed on his flesh. Verses 20–23 – Birthday Verdicts and Forgotten Promises On Pharaoh’s birthday the interpretations prove exact: the cupbearer is restored, the baker executed. Yet the cupbearer forgets Joseph, leaving him in prison. This chapter continues Joseph's journey in Egypt where he encounters two of Pharaoh's disgraced officers in prison. Known for his God-given ability to interpret dreams, Joseph provides clarity for the troubled men, shedding light on their fates, but finds himself forgotten despite his aid. Historical and Cultural Backdrop • Egypt’s royal cupbearer was more than a wine server; he oversaw vineyards, guarded against poison, and possessed the king’s ear. Archaeological wall reliefs from Saqqara and Thebes depict cupbearers holding grape clusters and tasting wine before presenting the cup. • Royal bakers supervised massive bread production. Excavated bakery complexes at Giza show large clay ovens exactly like those still used in rural Egypt. • Royal prisoners were occasionally placed under trust of an official rather than in dungeon chains, matching Joseph’s semi–administrative role (v. 4). Papyrus records list nobles jailed for court offenses while awaiting Pharaoh’s judgment. Joseph’s Steadfast Character • Unjust slavery (Genesis 39) and false imprisonment do not embitter Joseph. He serves faithfully, earning the warden’s trust (39:22–23). • When the prisoners look “dejected,” Joseph notices (40:6). Compassion moves him before self-interest—a pattern echoed in Philippians 2:4. • He points to God rather than elevating himself: “Do not interpretations belong to God?” (40:8). Humility and confidence coexist. God the Revealer of Mysteries Genesis 40 is one of several moments where God discloses hidden things: 1. Dreams of Joseph’s own youth (37:5-11) 2. These two prison dreams (40) 3. Pharaoh’s upcoming dreams (41) 4. Later, Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, saying, “But there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries” (Daniel 2:28). Across Scripture, God alone knows the future (Isaiah 46:9-10) and graciously shares knowledge when it serves His purpose. Dreams in the Bible Dreams often mark turning points: • Jacob at Bethel (28:10-22) • Solomon at Gibeon (1 Kings 3:5-15) • Joseph, husband of Mary (Matthew 1:20; 2:13) Yet dreams can mislead (Jeremiah 23:25-32). Genesis 40 teaches to weigh dreams by God’s word and seek His interpretation, not superstition. Foreshadowing of a Greater Deliverer • Joseph stands between two condemned men—one saved, one lost—prefiguring Christ between two criminals (Luke 23:39-43). • Like Joseph, Jesus was rejected, falsely accused, yet remained faithful (1 Peter 2:23). • Joseph’s eventual exaltation parallels Philippians 2:9-11, where God elevates the obedient Son. Archaeological Notes on Royal Birthdays Pharaoh’s “birthday feast” (40:20) fits Egyptian custom. Inscriptions from the reign of Amenhotep III describe festivals on the king’s birth and coronation anniversaries when prisoners were sometimes pardoned or punished to demonstrate royal justice. Waiting in God’s Plan Psalm 105:19 reflects Joseph’s season: “until the time his word came to pass, the word of the LORD tried him.” Lessons: • Delay is not denial. Two full years (41:1) prepare the exact moment Joseph will stand before Pharaoh. • Forgotten by people, remembered by God (Isaiah 49:15-16). Connections to the New Testament • God’s sovereignty in using prison for gospel advance mirrors Paul’s chains in Philippians 1:12-14. • The cupbearer’s lapse highlights our calling to remember the imprisoned (Hebrews 13:3). • Joseph’s assurance that interpretations belong to God echoes James 1:5, urging believers to ask God for wisdom. Practical Takeaways • Serve faithfully wherever you are—even in unfair settings. • Care for those around you; God may use simple compassion to open doors. • Give credit to God for any insight or gift He supplies. • Hold on during long seasons of waiting; unseen plans are unfolding. • Remember those who have helped you and keep your word. Key Verses to Memorize • Genesis 40:8 – “Do not interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.” • Genesis 40:23 – “Yet the chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph; he forgot him.” Connections to Additional Scriptures Psalm 105:19 Until the time that his word came to pass, the word of the LORD tested him. This verse reflects on Joseph's journey and God's timing in fulfilling His promises. Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. This encourages us to trust in God's wisdom and guidance. Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. This reassures us of God's sovereign plan for our lives. Teaching Points Joseph's Faithfulness in Adversity Despite being unjustly imprisoned, Joseph remains faithful and diligent in his duties. Genesis 40:4 states, The captain of the guard assigned them to Joseph, and he attended them. Joseph's commitment to serving others, even in difficult circumstances, is a testament to his character and trust in God. God's Sovereignty in Dreams The dreams of Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker reveal God's control over the future. Joseph acknowledges that interpretations belong to God, saying in Genesis 40:8, Do not interpretations belong to God? Please tell them to me. This underscores the belief that God is the ultimate revealer of mysteries and the orchestrator of events. The Cupbearer's Forgetfulness After Joseph interprets the cupbearer's dream, he asks to be remembered, yet the cupbearer forgets him. Genesis 40:23 notes, The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him. This highlights human fallibility and the importance of relying on God's timing rather than human promises. Practical Applications Serve Faithfully Where You Are Like Joseph, we should strive to serve faithfully in whatever situation we find ourselves, trusting that God sees our efforts and will reward them in His time. Trust in God's Timing When we feel forgotten or overlooked, we can take comfort in knowing that God has not forgotten us. His timing is perfect, and He is working all things for our good. Seek God's Wisdom In times of uncertainty, seek God's wisdom and guidance, trusting that He will reveal His plans and purposes in due time. People 1. Joseph Joseph is the central figure in this chapter. He is a Hebrew who was sold into slavery by his brothers and is now imprisoned in Egypt. Joseph is known for his ability to interpret dreams, which plays a crucial role in this chapter. The Hebrew name "Yosef" (יוֹסֵף) means "He will add," reflecting his role in adding to the understanding of dreams. 2. Pharaoh's Cupbearer The cupbearer, also referred to as the "chief cupbearer," is one of Pharaoh's officials who is imprisoned alongside Joseph. He has a dream that Joseph interprets, predicting his restoration to his position. The Hebrew term used is "mashqeh" (מַשְׁקֶה), meaning "one who gives drink." 3. Pharaoh's Baker The baker, or "chief baker," is another of Pharaoh's officials who is imprisoned with Joseph. He also has a dream, which Joseph interprets, but it foretells his execution. The Hebrew word "opheh" (אוֹפֶה) means "baker." 4. Pharaoh Although not directly present in the narrative, Pharaoh is the ruler of Egypt and the one whom the cupbearer and baker serve. His decisions impact the fate of these two officials. The term "Pharaoh" (פַּרְעֹה) is of Egyptian origin, meaning "great house." Places 1. Egypt The broader setting for the events of Genesis 40 is Egypt, where Joseph has been taken after being sold into slavery by his brothers. Egypt, known in Hebrew as "Mitzrayim" (מִצְרַיִם), is a significant location throughout the narrative of Joseph's life. 2. The House of the Captain of the Guard This is where Joseph is initially placed after being sold into slavery. The captain of the guard is Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. The Hebrew term for "captain of the guard" is "sar haṭabbāḥîm" (שַׂר הַטַּבָּחִים), indicating a high-ranking official responsible for the king's security. 3. The Prison Joseph is later confined in the prison where the king’s prisoners are held. This is where he meets the chief cupbearer and the chief baker. The Hebrew word for prison used here is "bêt hassōhar" (בֵּית הַסֹּהַר), which can be translated as "house of confinement." Events 1. Imprisonment of Pharaoh's Officials Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker offended their lord, the king of Egypt, and were put in custody in the house of the captain of the guard, the same prison where Joseph was confined (Genesis 40:1-3). The Hebrew term for "offended" (חָטָא, chata) implies a sin or transgression against Pharaoh. 2. Joseph's Responsibility The captain of the guard assigned Joseph to attend to the cupbearer and baker, and they remained in custody for some time (Genesis 40:4). Joseph's role as an attendant highlights his trustworthiness and leadership even in prison. 3. Dreams of the Cupbearer and Baker Both the cupbearer and the baker had dreams on the same night, each with its own meaning (Genesis 40:5). The Hebrew word for "dream" (חֲלוֹם, chalom) indicates a significant or prophetic vision. 4. Joseph's Interpretation of the Dreams Joseph noticed their dejection and asked why they were troubled. They explained that there was no one to interpret their dreams, to which Joseph responded, "Do not interpretations belong to God? Please tell them to me" (Genesis 40:6-8). Joseph's acknowledgment of God as the source of interpretation reflects his faith and reliance on divine wisdom. 5. Interpretation of the Cupbearer's Dream The chief cupbearer recounted his dream to Joseph, involving a vine with three branches that budded, blossomed, and produced clusters of ripe grapes. Joseph interpreted that within three days, Pharaoh would restore him to his position (Genesis 40:9-13). The number three is significant in Hebrew culture, often symbolizing completeness or divine intervention. 6. Joseph's Request to the Cupbearer Joseph asked the cupbearer to remember him and show kindness by mentioning him to Pharaoh to help get him out of prison, as he was unjustly imprisoned (Genesis 40:14-15). The Hebrew word for "kindness" (חֶסֶד, chesed) denotes loyalty and faithfulness. 7. Interpretation of the Baker's Dream Encouraged by the favorable interpretation of the cupbearer's dream, the chief baker shared his dream, which involved three baskets of bread on his head, with birds eating from the top basket. Joseph interpreted that within three days, Pharaoh would execute him by hanging, and birds would eat his flesh (Genesis 40:16-19). 8. Fulfillment of the Dreams On the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday, he held a feast for all his servants. He restored the chief cupbearer to his position, but he hanged the chief baker, just as Joseph had interpreted (Genesis 40:20-22). The fulfillment of the dreams underscores the accuracy of Joseph's God-given interpretations. 9. The Cupbearer Forgets Joseph Despite Joseph's request, the chief cupbearer did not remember Joseph; he forgot him (Genesis 40:23). The Hebrew root for "forgot" (שָׁכַח, shakach) implies a lapse in memory or neglect, highlighting the cupbearer's ingratitude and Joseph's continued trials. Lessons from Genesis 40 1. Trust in God's Timing In Genesis 40, Joseph finds himself in prison, yet he remains steadfast in his faith. This chapter reminds us that God's timing is perfect, even when it seems like we're stuck in a holding pattern. Joseph's patience and trust in God eventually lead to his rise to power. As it says in Ecclesiastes 3:11, "He has made everything beautiful in its time." Trust that God is working behind the scenes, even when you can't see it. 2. Use Your Gifts to Serve Others Joseph's ability to interpret dreams was a gift from God, and he used it to serve the cupbearer and the baker. "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others" (1 Peter 4:10). By using our God-given talents to help those around us, we not only fulfill our purpose but also glorify God. 3. Be Faithful in Small Things Joseph's faithfulness in interpreting dreams, even while in prison, demonstrates the importance of being faithful in small tasks. Luke 16:10 reminds us, "Whoever is faithful with very little will also be faithful with much." By being diligent in the small things, we prepare ourselves for greater responsibilities. 4. God is the Source of Wisdom When Joseph interprets the dreams, he acknowledges that interpretations belong to God. "Do not interpretations belong to God?" (Genesis 40:8). This teaches us to seek God's wisdom in all situations, recognizing that true understanding comes from Him alone. 5. Patience in Adversity Joseph's story is a testament to patience in the face of adversity. Despite being forgotten by the cupbearer, Joseph remains patient, trusting in God's plan. James 1:4 encourages us, "Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything." 6. God's Plans are Unfailing The dreams of the cupbearer and the baker were fulfilled exactly as Joseph interpreted. This shows us that God's plans are unfailing and His word is true. Isaiah 55:11 assures us, "So is My word that goes out from My mouth: It will not return to Me empty." 7. Integrity in All Circumstances Joseph's integrity shines through even in prison. He doesn't compromise his values or faith, regardless of his circumstances. Proverbs 11:3 states, "The integrity of the upright guides them." Let Joseph's example inspire you to maintain integrity in all areas of life. 8. God's Presence in Difficult Times Even in prison, God was with Joseph, providing him with favor and success. Genesis 39:21 says, "But the LORD was with Joseph and showed him kindness." Remember that God is always with you, especially during challenging times. 9. The Power of Hope Joseph's hope in God's promises sustains him through his trials. Romans 12:12 encourages us to "be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." Hope in God's promises can carry us through the darkest of times. 10. The Importance of Remembering Others The cupbearer forgets Joseph after being restored to his position, highlighting the importance of remembering those who have helped us. Hebrews 13:16 reminds us, "And do not forget to do good and to share with others." Let us strive to remember and support those who have been a blessing in our lives. Topics 1. Joseph in Prison with Pharaoh's Officials Joseph, who is in prison, encounters two of Pharaoh's officials—the chief cupbearer and the chief baker—who have been imprisoned by Pharaoh. This sets the stage for the unfolding events where Joseph's ability to interpret dreams becomes significant. The Hebrew term for "officials" (סָרִיס, saris) can also mean "eunuchs" or "officers," indicating their high status in Pharaoh's court. 2. The Dreams of the Cupbearer and the Baker Both the cupbearer and the baker have troubling dreams on the same night, which they cannot interpret. Joseph notices their distress and offers to interpret their dreams, attributing the ability to God. The Hebrew word for "dream" (חֲלוֹם, chalom) is central to this narrative, emphasizing the divine communication through dreams. 3. Interpretation of the Cupbearer's Dream Joseph interprets the cupbearer's dream, predicting that in three days, Pharaoh will restore him to his position. Joseph requests that the cupbearer remember him and mention him to Pharaoh to secure his release from prison. The interpretation highlights Joseph's faith in God's revelation and his hope for deliverance. 4. Interpretation of the Baker's Dream Joseph interprets the baker's dream, foretelling that in three days, Pharaoh will execute him. This interpretation contrasts with the favorable outcome for the cupbearer, demonstrating the accuracy and gravity of Joseph's prophetic gift. 5. Fulfillment of the Dreams On the third day, which is Pharaoh's birthday, the interpretations come to pass exactly as Joseph had said: the cupbearer is restored to his position, and the baker is executed. This fulfillment underscores the reliability of Joseph's interpretations and God's sovereignty over the events. 6. The Cupbearer Forgets Joseph Despite Joseph's accurate interpretation and request for help, the cupbearer forgets Joseph after being restored to his position. This forgetfulness prolongs Joseph's time in prison, setting the stage for future developments in Joseph's life. The Hebrew root for "forget" (שָׁכַח, shakach) implies a lapse in memory or neglect, highlighting human fallibility in contrast to divine faithfulness. Themes 1. Divine Providence and Sovereignty Genesis 40 illustrates God's control over events and His ability to work through human circumstances. Joseph's interpretation of dreams highlights God's sovereignty, as he acknowledges, "Do not interpretations belong to God?" (Genesis 40:8). The Hebrew word for "interpretations" (פִּתְרֹנִים, pitronim) emphasizes the divine insight required to understand dreams, underscoring God's ultimate authority. 2. Faithfulness in Adversity Joseph's continued faithfulness and integrity, even while imprisoned, is a central theme. Despite his unjust circumstances, Joseph remains committed to serving others, as seen in his care for the cupbearer and baker. This reflects the Hebrew concept of "chesed" (חֶסֶד), often translated as loving-kindness or steadfast love, which Joseph embodies through his actions. 3. The Role of Dreams in Divine Revelation Dreams serve as a medium for divine communication in Genesis 40. Joseph interprets the dreams of Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker, revealing God's messages about their futures. The Hebrew word for dream (חֲלוֹם, chalom) signifies a vision or revelation, indicating the importance of dreams as a means for God to reveal His plans. 4. Human Forgetfulness and Divine Timing The theme of human forgetfulness is evident when the chief cupbearer forgets Joseph after being restored to his position, as stated, "The chief cupbearer, however, did not remember Joseph; he forgot him" (Genesis 40:23). This forgetfulness contrasts with God's perfect timing and plan, reminding readers of the Hebrew concept of "zakar" (זָכַר), meaning to remember or recall, which is often associated with God's faithfulness. 5. Hope and Patience in God's Promises Joseph's experience in prison teaches the importance of hope and patience in waiting for God's promises to be fulfilled. Despite the delay in his release, Joseph trusts in God's plan, reflecting the Hebrew idea of "qavah" (קָוָה), meaning to wait or hope, which is central to maintaining faith during trials. Prayer Points Pray for the strength to remain faithful and diligent in our current circumstances, trusting in God's plan. Ask for patience and trust in God's timing, especially when we feel forgotten or overlooked. Seek God's wisdom and guidance in interpreting the situations and challenges we face. Pray for a heart that serves others selflessly, reflecting Christ's love and character in all we do. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can the seemingly supernatural power to interpret dreams in Genesis 40:8 be reconciled with a scientific worldview? 2. Does any historical or archaeological evidence support the existence and role of the Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker as described in Genesis 40:1–3? 3. Why would a prisoner like Joseph be entrusted with interpreting dreams for high-ranking officials (Genesis 40:5–8)? 4. If God guided Joseph, why does Genesis 40:19 single out the baker for execution without providing deeper justification? 5. Do the dream accounts and their outcomes in Genesis 40 conflict with any other dream narratives in the Bible regarding divine intervention? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. What does Joseph's ability to interpret dreams say about his relationship with God? 2. How does Joseph handle the ingratitude of the cupbearer? How would you have reacted in his situation? 3. Discuss the importance of recognizing and using God-given gifts, as illustrated by Joseph's story. 4. How does this chapter illustrate the concepts of divine timing and justice? 5. How does Joseph's situation help us understand how to deal with disappointment and broken promises? 6. In what ways does this chapter portray the consequences of our actions? 7. How can we relate to Joseph's plea to the cupbearer in our current life situations? 8. What does the differing outcomes for the cupbearer and baker teach us about God’s justice? 9. How would you handle a situation where you helped someone, and they forgot about it when their circumstances improved? 10. How does this chapter deepen our understanding of Joseph's faith and patience? 11. Discuss the power dynamics at play in this chapter. How do they impact Joseph's fate? 12. How does this chapter reveal about the role of dreams in the biblical narrative? 13. How can we maintain faith and patience when our efforts seem to go unnoticed or unappreciated? 14. In the face of the cupbearer's forgetfulness, how does Joseph's story encourage us to put our hope in God and not in people? 15. How can we interpret Joseph's continued faith despite his circumstances in the light of our personal lives? 16. How does this chapter challenge or confirm your understanding of divine timing and God's justice? 17. How does the account of the cupbearer and the baker support or challenge our understanding of reward and punishment? 18. In your opinion, why did Joseph feel the need to interpret the dreams of his fellow prisoners? 19. How does the story encourage us to use our abilities for the benefit of others, even in unfavorable situations? 20. How does this chapter deepen our understanding of grace, mercy, and the sovereignty of God's plans? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions