Genesis 41:47

During the seven years of abundance, the land brought forth bountifully.

Study Bible

During the seven years of abundance
This phrase sets the stage for a period of prosperity that was divinely revealed to Joseph through Pharaoh's dreams. The number seven in the Bible often symbolizes completeness or perfection, indicating that this was a divinely appointed time of fullness. The Hebrew word for "abundance" is "שָׂבָע" (sava), which conveys a sense of satisfaction and fullness. This period of abundance was not just a natural occurrence but a fulfillment of God's promise and a demonstration of His sovereignty over the natural world. It reminds us that God is the ultimate provider, and His timing is perfect.

the land
The "land" here refers specifically to the land of Egypt, a historically rich and fertile region due to the Nile River. In the ancient world, Egypt was known as the "breadbasket" because of its agricultural productivity. The Hebrew word "אֶרֶץ" (eretz) can mean land, earth, or country, emphasizing the physical ground that God used to fulfill His promise. This highlights the importance of the land in God's plan, as it was the means through which He would sustain not only Egypt but also the surrounding nations during the impending famine.

brought forth
The phrase "brought forth" is translated from the Hebrew word "קָמַץ" (kamats), which means to gather or collect. This implies that the land was not just passively producing but actively yielding its produce in abundance. It suggests a divine blessing on the agricultural efforts, where the land cooperated with human labor to produce a harvest beyond normal expectations. This cooperation between divine providence and human responsibility is a recurring theme in Scripture, reminding believers of the importance of working diligently while trusting in God's provision.

bountifully
The term "bountifully" is derived from the Hebrew word "לִשְׁבֹּר" (lishbor), which means to break or burst forth. This word paints a picture of the land producing so abundantly that it seemed to overflow with produce. It signifies an overwhelming blessing that exceeds human needs and expectations. This abundance was not just for the sake of prosperity but was part of God's larger plan to preserve life during the upcoming famine. It serves as a reminder of God's ability to provide more than we can ask or imagine, and it calls believers to trust in His provision even in times of plenty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew man who was sold into slavery by his brothers, rose to prominence in Egypt, and was appointed by Pharaoh to oversee the land during the years of abundance and famine.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who had dreams that Joseph interpreted, leading to Joseph's rise to power.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph served and where the events of abundance and subsequent famine took place.

4. Seven Years of Abundance
A period of prosperity in Egypt, as foretold by Joseph, where the land produced plentifully.

5. The Land
Refers to the agricultural regions of Egypt that yielded a great harvest during the seven years of abundance.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Provision
Recognize that God is in control of both times of abundance and times of need. He provides wisdom and resources to prepare for future challenges.

Wisdom in Stewardship
Like Joseph, we are called to be wise stewards of the resources God entrusts to us, using times of plenty to prepare for times of scarcity.

Faithfulness in Service
Joseph's faithfulness in his duties, even in a foreign land, serves as a model for us to be diligent and trustworthy in our responsibilities.

Preparation and Foresight
The account encourages us to plan and prepare for the future, trusting in God's guidance and provision.

Trust in God's Timing
Understanding that God's timing is perfect, and He can use both prosperity and adversity for His purposes and our growth.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's management during the years of abundance reflect God's wisdom and provision?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of stewardship from Joseph's account to our own financial and resource management?

3. How does the concept of preparation in Genesis 41:47 relate to Jesus' teachings in the Parable of the Ten Virgins?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's faithfulness in service, and how can we apply this in our workplaces or communities?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty in times of abundance and famine affect our trust in Him during uncertain times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41:29-30
These verses provide context for the seven years of abundance, as Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams, predicting both the years of plenty and the subsequent famine.

Proverbs 6:6-8
This passage speaks of the ant preparing its provisions in summer, which parallels Joseph's wisdom in storing up grain during the years of abundance.

Matthew 25:1-13
The Parable of the Ten Virgins emphasizes the importance of preparation and readiness, similar to Joseph's actions during the years of plenty.