◄ Genesis 47 ►
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Jacob Settles in Goshen 1So Joseph went and told Pharaoh: “My father and my brothers, with their flocks and herds and all they own, have come from the land of Canaan and are now in Goshen.” 2And he chose five of his brothers and presented them before Pharaoh. 3“What is your occupation?” Pharaoh asked Joseph’s brothers. “Your servants are shepherds,” they replied, “both we and our fathers.” 4Then they said to Pharaoh, “We have come to live in the land for a time, because there is no pasture for the flocks of your servants, since the famine in the land of Canaan has been severe. So now, please allow your servants to settle in the land of Goshen.” 5Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Now that your father and brothers have come to you, 6the land of Egypt is before you; settle your father and brothers in the best part of the land. They may dwell in the land of Goshen. And if you know of any talented men among them, put them in charge of my own livestock.” 7Then Joseph brought in his father Jacob and presented him before Pharaoh, and Jacob blessed Pharaoh. 8“How many years have you lived?” Pharaoh asked. 9“My travelsa have lasted 130 years,” Jacob replied. “My years have been few and hard, and they have not matched the years of the travels of my fathers.” 10Then Jacob blessed Pharaoh and departed from his presence. 11So Joseph settled his father and brothers in the land of Egypt and gave them property in the best part of the land, the district of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded. 12Joseph also provided his father and brothers and all his father’s household with food for their families. The Famine Continues 13There was no food, however, in all that region, because the famine was so severe; the lands of Egypt and Canaan had been exhausted by the famine. 14Joseph collected all the money to be found in the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan in exchange for the grain they were buying, and he brought it into Pharaoh’s palace. 15When the money from the lands of Egypt and Canaan was gone, all the Egyptians came to Joseph and said, “Give us food. Why should we die before your eyes? For our funds have run out!” 16“Then bring me your livestock,” said Joseph. “Since the money is gone, I will sell you food in exchange for your livestock.” 17So 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. 18When that year was over, they came to him the second year and said, “We cannot hide from our lord that our money is gone and all our livestock belongs to you. There is nothing left for our lord except our bodies and our land. 19Why should we perish before your eyes—we and our land as well? Purchase us and our land in exchange for food. Then we, along with our land, will be slaves to Pharaoh. Give us seed that we may live and not die, and that the land may not become desolate.” 20So Joseph acquired for Pharaoh all the land in Egypt; the Egyptians, one and all, sold their fields because the famine was so severe upon them. The land became Pharaoh’s, 21and Joseph reduced the people to servitudeb from one end of Egypt to the other. 22However, he did not acquire the priests’ portion of the land, for it had been given to them by Pharaoh. They ate the rations that Pharaoh supplied; so they did not sell their land. 23Then Joseph said to the people, “Now that I have acquired you and your land for Pharaoh this day, here is seed for you to sow in the land. 24At 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.” 25“You have saved our lives,” they said. “We have found favor in our lord’s eyes, and we will be Pharaoh’s servants.” 26So Joseph established a law that a fifth of the produce belongs to Pharaoh, and it is in effect in the land of Egypt to this day. Only the priests’ land does not belong to Pharaoh. The Israelites Prosper in Goshen 27Now the Israelites settled in the land of Egypt, in the region of Goshen. They acquired property there and became fruitful and increased greatly in number. 28And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years, and the length of his life was 147 years. 29When the time drew near for Israel to die, he called his son Joseph and said to him, “If I have found favor in your eyes, put your hand under my thigh and promise to show me kindness and faithfulness. Do not bury me in Egypt, 30but when I lie down with my fathers, carry me out of Egypt and bury me with them.” Joseph answered, “I will do as you have requested.” 31“Swear to me,” Jacob said. So Joseph swore to him, and Israel bowed in worship at the head of his bed.c Footnotes: 9 a Hebrew sojourns; twice in this verse 21 b SP, LXX, Vulgate; Hebrew removed the people to the cities 31 c Hebrew; LXX Israel worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff; see Hebrews 11:21. 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 47 Summary The Israelites Prosper in Goshen Verses 1–6 – Joseph Presents His Family Joseph brings five of his brothers to Pharaoh, explains that the family are shepherds, and requests permission for them to dwell in Goshen. Pharaoh grants the request and even offers positions of oversight to qualified brothers. Verses 7–10 – Jacob Blesses Pharaoh Jacob is ushered into Pharaoh’s presence. He blesses Pharaoh at both the start and close of their meeting and tells the king he Isaiah 130 years old, “few and unpleasant” though filled with God’s care. Verses 11–12 – Settlement in Goshen Joseph settles Israel in the best part of Egypt, the land of Rameses, and provides food for the whole household according to the number of dependents. Verses 13–19 – The Famine Intensifies As the famine drains Egypt and Canaan alike, the Egyptians exchange their money, livestock, and finally themselves for grain. They plead with Joseph: “Why should we and our land perish before your eyes?” (v. 19). Verses 20–26 – Pharaoh Gains the Land; Joseph’s Policy Joseph buys all Egyptian land for Pharaoh, relocating the people to cities. Priestly lands remain exempt. Joseph institutes a permanent policy: one-fifth of future harvests will belong to Pharaoh. The people accept gratefully, calling Joseph their savior. Verses 27–31 – Jacob’s Last Request Israel prospers and multiplies. As Jacob nears death after 17 years in Egypt, he makes Joseph swear to bury him with his fathers in Canaan. Joseph swears, and Jacob bows in worship on his bed’s head. This chapter narrates the significant turning point in the lives of Joseph and his family, marked by their transition from Canaan to Egypt. It outlines the severe famine, the management strategies implemented by Joseph, and the societal changes this crisis brought about. The chapter culminates with Jacob's last wishes and a heartfelt promise from Joseph. Historical and Cultural Background • Shepherds were detested by many Egyptians (cf. 46:34), yet Pharaoh welcomes Israel—showing God’s favor overruling social prejudice. • “The land of Rameses” (v. 11) is later known for the store-cities Israelites help build (Exodus 1:11). Genesis uses the familiar later name so readers know the location. • A 20 percent tax matches some ancient Near-Eastern royal policies uncovered in economic tablets from the second millennium B.C. Joseph’s plan fits known practices while preserving the people’s lives. Pharaoh’s Favor and the Land of Goshen • Goshen provided rich pasture, strategic distance from Egyptian temples, and security from assimilation. • Exodus 8:22 notes Goshen as divinely protected during later plagues, showing that God’s choice of setting in Genesis already anticipated Israel’s future deliverance. The Role of the Famine and Economic Policies • Joseph’s management averts starvation, fulfills God-given dreams (41:32), and centralizes Pharaoh’s power. • By exempting the priests (v. 22), Joseph observes Egyptian tradition while later Exodus shows a sharp clash between that priesthood and Israel’s God; Scripture traces an unfolding tension. • Israel, however, keeps its own flocks and grows wealthy (v. 27), illustrating “the blessing of Abraham” in action (12:2-3). Jacob’s Blessing and Spiritual Authority • Hebrews 7:7 notes, “the lesser is blessed by the greater.” Jacob’s blessing of Pharaoh testifies that spiritual standing outweighs political rank. • Jacob’s candor about life’s hardship recalls Psalm 39:5-6, teaching humility amid earthly power. • The twofold blessing frames the meeting: God’s servant is a channel of grace even in a foreign court. Burial in Canaan and the Hope of Promise • Jacob refuses an Egyptian tomb of honor, signaling faith that God will bring his offspring back to the promised land (Hebrews 11:22). • The oath binds Joseph, who repeats the same request at his own death (50:25). Their bones will preach the promise for generations (Exodus 13:19; Joshua 24:32). Foreshadowing Christ and New Testament Links • Joseph’s life-preserving work amid famine pictures Jesus, who provides the “bread of life” (John 6:35). • Joseph’s fairness—“You have saved our lives” (v. 25)—hints at Jesus’ rescue from sin’s famine and the believer’s grateful surrender (Romans 12:1). • Jacob’s journey into Egypt anticipates the holy family’s temporary flight there (Matthew 2:13-15). Life Lessons and Application • God places His people in unlikely positions to bless nations—your workplace may be Goshen. • Wise stewardship (Joseph) and clear faith (Jacob) can coexist. Prepare practically; trust boldly. • The frail patriarch blessing the mighty ruler reminds us that prayer and godly words outweigh titles and wealth. • Clinging to God’s promises shapes end-of-life choices; like Jacob, finish with worship and vision for the future. Connections to Additional Scriptures 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 verse echoes the trust in God’s providence seen in Joseph’s life. 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 New Testament promise aligns with the overarching theme of God’s providence in Genesis 47. Hebrews 11:21 “By faith Jacob, when he was dying, blessed each of Joseph’s sons and worshiped as he leaned on the top of his staff.” This highlights Jacob’s faith and the importance of blessing others. Teaching Points Joseph’s Leadership and Wisdom Joseph’s strategic planning during the years of plenty and famine showcases his God-given wisdom. He effectively manages resources, ensuring the survival of Egypt and surrounding nations (Genesis 47:13-26). God’s Provision for Israel Despite the famine, God provides for Jacob and his family through Joseph’s position in Egypt. They are given the land of Goshen, a fertile area suitable for their livestock (Genesis 47:11-12). Jacob’s Blessing of Pharaoh Jacob, though a sojourner in Egypt, blesses Pharaoh, indicating the spiritual authority and blessing that God’s people carry, even in foreign lands (Genesis 47:7-10). The Fulfillment of God’s Promises The chapter underscores God’s faithfulness in preserving the lineage of Israel, which is crucial for the unfolding of His redemptive plan (Genesis 47:27-28). Practical Applications Trust in God’s Providence Like Joseph, we can trust that God is working behind the scenes, even in difficult circumstances, to bring about His purposes. Wise Stewardship Joseph’s management of resources encourages us to be wise stewards of what God has entrusted to us, planning for both times of abundance and scarcity. Blessing Others We are called to be a blessing to those around us, regardless of our circumstances, just as Jacob blessed Pharaoh. Faithfulness in Foreign Lands As believers, we can remain faithful to God and be a testimony of His goodness, even when we find ourselves in unfamiliar or challenging environments. People 1. Joseph Joseph is the central figure in this chapter. He is the son of Jacob (Israel) and has risen to a position of power in Egypt as the governor, second only to Pharaoh. Joseph is responsible for managing the distribution of grain during the famine and arranging for his family's settlement in Egypt. 2. Jacob (Israel) Jacob, also known as Israel, is the patriarch of the Israelite family. In this chapter, he is brought before Pharaoh by Joseph and blesses Pharaoh. Jacob's age and the years of his life are discussed in his conversation with Pharaoh. 3. Pharaoh The Pharaoh is the ruler of Egypt who interacts with Joseph and his family. He grants Joseph's family the land of Goshen to settle in and provides them with resources during the famine. 4. Joseph's Brothers Although not all are named individually in this chapter, Joseph's brothers are present as they come to Egypt with their father, Jacob. They are shepherds and are given the land of Goshen to live in and tend their flocks. 5. The Egyptians While not named individually, the Egyptian people are mentioned as they come to Joseph to buy grain during the famine. They eventually sell their livestock, land, and even themselves to Pharaoh in exchange for food. 6. The Priests The priests of Egypt are mentioned as a distinct group who did not sell their land to Pharaoh because they received a regular allotment of food from Pharaoh. Places 1. Goshen Goshen is the region in Egypt where Joseph's family settled. It is described as the best part of the land, suitable for their livestock. In Genesis 47:6, Pharaoh tells Joseph, "The land of Egypt is before you. Settle your father and brothers in the best part of the land. Let them dwell in the land of Goshen." The Hebrew root for Goshen (גֹּשֶׁן) suggests a place of drawing near or approaching, which is fitting as it becomes the dwelling place for Jacob's family. 2. Egypt Egypt is the broader setting for the events of Genesis 47. It is where Joseph has risen to power and where his family comes to live during the famine. In Genesis 47:11, it states, "So Joseph settled his father and brothers and gave them property in the best part of the land, the district of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded." The Hebrew name for Egypt is מִצְרַיִם (Mitzrayim), often associated with the idea of a place of distress or narrowness, reflecting the Israelites' later experiences there. 3. Rameses Rameses is mentioned as the district where Joseph's family is given property. Genesis 47:11 refers to it as "the district of Rameses." The name Rameses (רַעְמְסֵס) is linked to the Egyptian Pharaohs and is often associated with the city of Pi-Ramesses, a significant city during the time of the New Kingdom in Egypt. Events 1. Joseph Presents His Family to Pharaoh Joseph brings five of his brothers to Pharaoh and introduces them. Pharaoh inquires about their occupation, and they respond that they are shepherds, as were their ancestors. Joseph's brothers request to dwell in the land of Goshen due to the severe famine. Pharaoh grants them permission to settle in the best part of the land, Goshen, and even offers them positions as overseers of his own livestock (Genesis 47:1-6). 2. Jacob Blesses Pharaoh Joseph then presents his father, Jacob, to Pharaoh. Jacob blesses Pharaoh, and Pharaoh asks Jacob about his age. Jacob responds, "The years of my pilgrimage are a hundred and thirty. My years have been few and difficult, and they do not equal the years of the pilgrimage of my fathers" (Genesis 47:7-9). Jacob blesses Pharaoh again before leaving his presence. 3. Settlement in Goshen Joseph settles his family in Egypt, giving them property in the best part of the land, the district of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded. Joseph provides his family with food according to the number of their dependents (Genesis 47:11-12). 4. Joseph's Management of the Famine As the famine becomes more severe, the people of Egypt and Canaan run out of money to buy grain. Joseph collects all the money and brings it to Pharaoh's house. When the money is gone, the Egyptians come to Joseph asking for food, offering their livestock in exchange. Joseph accepts their livestock and provides them with food (Genesis 47:13-17). 5. Acquisition of Land and Servitude The following year, when the people have nothing left but their land and themselves, they offer to become Pharaoh's servants in exchange for seed to plant crops. Joseph agrees, and Pharaoh acquires all the land in Egypt, except for that of the priests. Joseph establishes a law that a fifth of the produce belongs to Pharaoh, while the people keep four-fifths for themselves (Genesis 47:18-26). 6. Israel's Prosperity in Egypt The Israelites settle in Egypt in the region of Goshen. They acquire property, are fruitful, and multiply greatly. Jacob lives in Egypt for seventeen years, and his total lifespan is one hundred and forty-seven years (Genesis 47:27-28). 7. Jacob's Request to Joseph As Jacob's death approaches, he calls for Joseph and asks him to swear that he will not bury him in Egypt but will take his body back to the burial place of his fathers. Joseph swears to do so, and Jacob worships as he leans on the top of his staff (Genesis 47:29-31). Lessons from Genesis 47 1. The Power of Divine Provision In Genesis 47, we witness God's provision for His people during a time of famine. Joseph, through divine wisdom, ensures that Egypt and his family are sustained. This reminds us of God's promise in Philippians 4:19, "And my God will supply all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus." Trust in His provision, for He knows our needs even before we ask. 2. The Importance of Wise Stewardship Joseph's management of resources during the famine is a testament to wise stewardship. He not only saves Egypt but also secures a future for his family. As stewards of God's creation, we are called to manage our resources wisely, as 1 Peter 4:10 encourages us, "As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another." 3. The Blessing of Family Unity Jacob's family is reunited in Egypt, highlighting the strength found in family unity. Genesis 47:12 tells us, "Joseph also provided his father and brothers and all his father’s household with food, according to the number of their children." Family is a gift from God, and unity within it can be a source of great blessing and strength. 4. The Role of Leadership in Crisis Joseph's leadership during the famine is a model for us all. He acts with integrity and foresight, qualities essential in any leader. Proverbs 11:14 reminds us, "Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety." Effective leadership can guide others through the most challenging times. 5. The Significance of God's Promises Jacob's journey to Egypt is a fulfillment of God's promise to make him a great nation. Genesis 47:27 states, "Now the Israelites settled in Egypt in the region of Goshen. They acquired property there and were fruitful and increased greatly in number." God's promises are sure, and His faithfulness endures through all generations. 6. The Value of Humility and Service Joseph's humility in serving both Pharaoh and his family is a powerful lesson. Despite his high position, he remains a servant at heart. As Jesus taught in Matthew 23:11, "The greatest among you shall be your servant." True greatness is found in serving others with humility. 7. The Impact of Faithful Testimony Jacob's testimony before Pharaoh is a reminder of the impact of a life lived in faith. Genesis 47:9 records Jacob's words, "The years of my pilgrimage are a hundred and thirty. My years have been few and difficult, and they do not equal the years of the pilgrimage of my fathers." Our lives are testimonies to God's faithfulness, and sharing our journey can inspire others. 8. The Necessity of Planning for the Future Joseph's foresight in planning for the famine teaches us the importance of preparing for the future. Proverbs 21:5 advises, "The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty." Thoughtful planning can help us navigate life's uncertainties. 9. The Assurance of God's Presence Even in a foreign land, Jacob and his family experience God's presence and blessing. Genesis 47:11-12 shows how they thrived in Egypt. This reassures us that no matter where we are, God is with us, as He promises in Hebrews 13:5, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you." 10. The Legacy of Faith Jacob's life and his blessings to his sons in Egypt leave a legacy of faith. His story encourages us to pass on our faith to future generations. As Deuteronomy 6:6-7 instructs, "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children." Our faith can be a guiding light for those who come after us. Topics 1. Joseph Presents His Family to Pharaoh Joseph brings five of his brothers to Pharaoh and presents them, explaining their occupation as shepherds. Pharaoh grants them permission to settle in the land of Goshen. This reflects the Hebrew term "גֹּשֶׁן" (Goshen), indicating a region suitable for their livestock. 2. Jacob Blesses Pharaoh Jacob is brought before Pharaoh and blesses him. This act of blessing, using the Hebrew root "בָּרַךְ" (barak), signifies a transfer of divine favor and respect from Jacob, a patriarch, to Pharaoh. 3. Settlement in Goshen Joseph settles his family in the best part of the land, as Pharaoh instructed. The Hebrew word "מִיטַּב" (mitav) is used to describe the "best" of the land, indicating the quality and fertility of Goshen. 4. Joseph’s Economic Policies During the Famine Joseph implements policies to manage the severe famine, exchanging grain for money, livestock, and eventually land. This demonstrates his administrative skills and the Hebrew concept of "חָכְמָה" (chokmah), meaning wisdom. 5. The Israelites Prosper in Egypt Despite the famine, the Israelites prosper and multiply in Egypt. The Hebrew term "פָּרָה" (parah) is used to describe their fruitfulness and growth, fulfilling God's promise of multiplication. 6. Jacob’s Request to Be Buried in Canaan As Jacob nears death, he makes Joseph swear to bury him in Canaan, not Egypt. This reflects the Hebrew word "שָׁבַע" (shava), meaning to swear or make an oath, emphasizing the importance of the ancestral land. Themes 1. Divine Providence and Provision Genesis 47 highlights God's providence in providing for Jacob's family during the famine. Joseph, through God's guidance, ensures that his family is settled in Goshen, a fertile area in Egypt. This theme underscores the Hebrew concept of "Yahweh Yireh" (יְהוָה יִרְאֶה), meaning "The Lord will provide." 2. Wisdom and Stewardship Joseph's management of Egypt's resources during the famine demonstrates wisdom and stewardship. He implements a plan to collect and distribute grain, ensuring survival for both Egyptians and his family. This reflects the Hebrew idea of "chokmah" (חָכְמָה), meaning wisdom, which is a key virtue in managing resources. 3. Family and Heritage The chapter emphasizes the importance of family and heritage as Jacob's family is reunited and settled in Egypt. Jacob's blessing of Pharaoh and the preservation of his lineage highlight the continuity of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 4. Authority and Governance Joseph's role as a leader in Egypt illustrates the theme of authority and governance. His ability to negotiate with Pharaoh and manage the land reflects the Hebrew understanding of "mishpat" (מִשְׁפָּט), meaning justice or judgment, in leadership. 5. Faithfulness and Loyalty Joseph's loyalty to his family and his faithfulness to God are evident as he navigates his dual identity as an Israelite and an Egyptian official. This theme is rooted in the Hebrew word "emunah" (אֱמוּנָה), meaning faithfulness or steadfastness. 6. Economic Exchange and Survival The economic transactions between Joseph and the Egyptians during the famine, where they exchange livestock and land for food, highlight themes of survival and economic exchange. This reflects the practical aspects of living and the necessity of resource management in times of crisis. 7. Blessing and Favor Jacob's blessing of Pharaoh (Genesis 47:7, 10) signifies the theme of blessing and favor. Despite being a foreigner in Egypt, Jacob's presence brings a spiritual blessing, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "barak" (בָּרַךְ), meaning to bless. 8. Mortality and Legacy As Jacob nears the end of his life, he reflects on his journey and instructs Joseph regarding his burial wishes. This theme of mortality and legacy is tied to the Hebrew understanding of "nachalah" (נַחֲלָה), meaning inheritance or legacy, emphasizing the importance of one's final wishes and the continuation of family traditions. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God’s Providence Thank God for His sovereign control over our lives and His ability to turn difficult situations into blessings. Wisdom and Stewardship Pray for wisdom to manage resources wisely and to be good stewards of what God has given us. Being a Blessing Ask God to help us be a blessing to others, sharing His love and grace in every interaction. Faithfulness in Trials Pray for strength to remain faithful to God and His purposes, even when we face challenges or find ourselves in unfamiliar situations. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Jacob realistically claim to be 130 years old (Genesis 47:9) without contradicting known human lifespans? 2. Why does the historical record offer little to no evidence of a mass Egyptian servitude to Pharaoh as portrayed in Genesis 47:13-20? 3. Is there archaeological proof that Joseph was elevated to such a high rank in Egypt as described in Genesis 47:1-6? 4. How can the land of Goshen be “the best of the land” (Genesis 47:6) given Egypt’s own fertile regions and the scarce mention of Goshen in historical texts? 5. Why is there no clear non-biblical documentation of both a severe seven-year famine and the Hebrews thriving in Egypt (Genesis 47)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How do the themes of trust and faith emerge in this chapter? 2. In what ways does this chapter illustrate the importance of wise leadership during a crisis? 3. How does Joseph use his power and position to aid his family and the people of Egypt? 4. How does the transition from Canaan to Egypt symbolize a significant turning point for the Israelites? 5. In modern times, what measures do governments take during crises, such as famines, that mirror Joseph's actions? 6. What do you think the psychological impacts of the severe famine might have been on the Egyptians? 7. How does the land of Goshen symbolize refuge and prosperity for the Israelites? 8. What does Pharaoh's acceptance of the Israelites say about foreign relations and acceptance of immigrants? 9. How can we apply the lessons from this chapter in dealing with current global issues like immigration, famine, and economic crises? 10. How does Jacob's final request reflect his spiritual beliefs and his connection to his ancestral land? 11. Discuss how Joseph's journey from being a slave to a leader in Egypt is an example of divine providence. 12. How can we reconcile the Egyptians' gratitude towards Joseph despite him reducing them to servitude? 13. How would you interpret the mutual blessings exchanged between Jacob and Pharaoh? 14. If you were in Joseph's position, would you have made the same decisions? Why or why not? 15. How does this chapter reflect on the importance of family ties and loyalty? 16. How does Joseph's management strategy during the famine reflect his wisdom and foresight? 17. How can we apply the lessons of resilience and growth in adversity from this chapter to our personal lives? 18. Can the law established by Joseph of giving a fifth of the produce to Pharaoh be considered fair? Why or why not? 19. How might the societal structure and economics of Egypt have changed due to Joseph's management strategies? 20. Discuss how the Israelites' sojourn in Egypt sets the stage for future biblical events. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions