Genesis 41:20

Then the thin, ugly cows devoured the seven well-fed cows that were there first.

Study Bible

And the thin, ugly cows
This phrase introduces the second part of Pharaoh's dream, which Joseph later interprets. The Hebrew word for "thin" is "דַּקּוֹת" (dakkot), suggesting not just physical thinness but a lack of substance or vitality. The word "ugly" is translated from "רָעוֹת" (ra'ot), which can mean evil or bad, indicating a deeper, more ominous quality. In the context of the dream, these cows represent a period of famine and hardship. Historically, Egypt was known for its reliance on the Nile's flooding to sustain agriculture. A failure in this system would indeed lead to dire consequences, as symbolized by these cows.

devoured
The Hebrew word used here is "וַתֹּאכַלְנָה" (vato'chalna), which means to consume or eat up. This action is aggressive and total, indicating the severity of the famine that would consume the abundance previously enjoyed. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a warning of how quickly prosperity can be overtaken by adversity if not managed wisely. The act of devouring also suggests a complete and overwhelming takeover, leaving nothing behind.

the seven well-fed cows
The "seven well-fed cows" are described in Hebrew as "בְּרִיאוֹת בָּשָׂר" (briot basar), meaning healthy or fat in flesh. These cows symbolize the seven years of plenty that Egypt would experience. The number seven often represents completeness or perfection in the Bible, indicating a full cycle of abundance. This period of prosperity was a divine provision, a time to prepare for the coming famine. The historical context of Egypt's agricultural cycles underscores the importance of these years of plenty as a time of preparation and stewardship.

that were there first
This phrase emphasizes the sequence of events in Pharaoh's dream. The well-fed cows came first, highlighting the natural order of prosperity followed by hardship. The Hebrew word "רִאשֹׁנָה" (rishonah) means first or former, indicating precedence. This sequence serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the importance of foresight and planning. Scripturally, it underscores the principle of sowing and reaping, where times of abundance should be used to prepare for future challenges.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who had troubling dreams that needed interpretation.

2. Joseph
A Hebrew man, sold into slavery, who rose to prominence in Egypt due to his God-given ability to interpret dreams.

3. Egypt
The setting of the account, a powerful ancient civilization where Joseph's account unfolds.

4. The Thin, Ugly Cows
Symbolic in Pharaoh's dream, representing years of famine.

5. The Well-Fed Cows
Also part of Pharaoh's dream, symbolizing years of abundance.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Dreams
God can communicate His plans through dreams, as seen in Pharaoh's dream and Joseph's interpretation.

Wisdom and Preparation
Joseph's interpretation and subsequent advice to store grain during the years of abundance highlight the importance of preparation and foresight.

God's Provision in Times of Famine
The account demonstrates God's provision and care, even in times of scarcity, through His chosen servant, Joseph.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Joseph's rise to power, despite his earlier hardships, shows the importance of remaining faithful and trusting God's timing.

The Impact of Godly Leadership
Joseph's leadership saved Egypt and surrounding nations, illustrating how godly wisdom can have far-reaching effects.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's ability to interpret dreams demonstrate God's sovereignty and power?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of preparation and foresight in our own lives, as Joseph advised Pharaoh?

3. How does Joseph's account encourage us to remain faithful during difficult times?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's leadership about the impact of godly wisdom in our communities?

5. How do the themes of abundance and famine in Genesis 41 relate to Jesus' teachings in the New Testament about spiritual wealth and provision?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41:1-7
Provides the full context of Pharaoh's dream, which Joseph interprets.

Genesis 41:25-30
Joseph explains the dream, revealing God's plan for Egypt's future.

Proverbs 21:20
Discusses the wisdom of storing up resources, which connects to Joseph's advice to Pharaoh.

Matthew 6:19-21
Jesus teaches about storing treasures in heaven, which can be related to the spiritual foresight Joseph demonstrated.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, as Joseph did.