◄ Genesis 47 ►
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Summary The Israelites Prosper in Goshen The trials and tribulations faced by Joseph and his family bring forth a testament to their faith, wisdom, and resilience. Despite adversity, they emerge successful, showing us that in even the direst circumstances, faith and wise leadership can lead to prosperity. Joseph's Negotiations and the Settlement in Egypt (Verses 1-12) Joseph informs Pharaoh of his family's arrival from Canaan. He introduces his brothers, who communicate their occupation as shepherds. Pharaoh grants them the land of Goshen. Joseph then presents Jacob before Pharaoh, leading to a mutual exchange of blessings. Joseph, as instructed by Pharaoh, settles his family in the best part of Egypt, the district of Rameses, and ensures their sustenance. Severe Famine and Joseph's Strategic Management (Verses 13-26) The chapter depicts the severity of the famine affecting both Egypt and Canaan, leading Joseph to collect money for grain, eventually depleting all monetary resources. The Egyptians, desperate, exchange their livestock for food. As the famine persists, they offer their lands and themselves in servitude to Pharaoh for food, leading to Joseph's acquisition of all the land in Egypt, except for the priests'. Joseph establishes a law for a fifth of the produce to be given to Pharaoh. The Israelites' Growth and Jacob's Last Wishes (Verses 27-31) The Israelites prosper in the region of Goshen, multiplying in number. As Jacob ages, he makes Joseph promise not to bury him in Egypt but in his ancestral land, to which Joseph swears. 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. 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). 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. 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. Bible Study 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. 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions