Genesis 42:6

Now Joseph was the ruler of the land; he was the one who sold grain to all its people. So when his brothers arrived, they bowed down before him with their faces to the ground.

Study Bible

Now Joseph was the ruler of the land
The phrase highlights Joseph's elevated status in Egypt, a remarkable transformation from his earlier life as a Hebrew slave and prisoner. The Hebrew word for "ruler" is "shalit," which implies a position of authority and governance. This reflects God's providence and fulfillment of His promises, as Joseph's dreams of leadership and his brothers bowing to him are realized. Historically, this aligns with the Egyptian practice of appointing capable foreigners to high positions, showcasing God's sovereignty in using Joseph to preserve His people.

he was the one who sold grain
Joseph's role as the distributor of grain underscores his critical position during the famine. The Hebrew root "shabar" means to buy or sell grain, indicating Joseph's control over the essential resource of food. This not only emphasizes his administrative skills but also his wisdom and discernment, qualities that God had developed in him through his trials. Joseph's management of the grain supply is a testament to God's provision and the fulfillment of His plan to sustain the nations during the famine.

to all its people
This phrase indicates the widespread impact of Joseph's role, as he was responsible for the sustenance of the entire Egyptian population and beyond. The inclusivity of "all" suggests that Joseph's influence extended beyond ethnic and national boundaries, prefiguring the universal nature of God's salvation plan. It also highlights the historical context of Egypt as a central hub during times of famine, drawing people from surrounding regions to seek sustenance.

So when Joseph’s brothers arrived
The arrival of Joseph's brothers marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, setting the stage for reconciliation and the fulfillment of Joseph's dreams. The Hebrew word "bo" (arrived) signifies a coming or entering, which in this context, represents the brothers' unwitting participation in God's redemptive plan. This moment is laden with dramatic irony, as the brothers are unaware of Joseph's identity and the significance of their journey to Egypt.

they bowed down before him
This act of bowing fulfills the prophetic dreams Joseph had as a young man, where his brothers' sheaves bowed to his sheaf (Genesis 37:7). The Hebrew word "shachah" means to bow down or prostrate oneself, often used in contexts of worship or deep respect. This physical act symbolizes the fulfillment of God's word and the humbling of Joseph's brothers, who once scorned his dreams. It serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the truth that His purposes will prevail.

with their faces to the ground
The phrase emphasizes the depth of the brothers' submission and respect, as bowing with faces to the ground was a gesture of utmost humility and reverence in ancient Near Eastern culture. This posture reflects their desperation and need, as well as the dramatic reversal of roles between Joseph and his brothers. It is a powerful image of God's ability to transform circumstances and bring about His divine justice and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
Once sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph has risen to become the ruler of Egypt, second only to Pharaoh. His position allows him to control the distribution of grain during a severe famine.

2. Joseph's Brothers
They come to Egypt seeking grain due to the famine in Canaan. Unbeknownst to them, the brother they sold into slavery is now the powerful ruler they must approach.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power. It is a place of refuge and provision during the famine, drawing people from surrounding regions.

4. Famine
A severe famine affects the entire region, prompting Joseph's brothers to travel to Egypt for food, setting the stage for their reunion with Joseph.

5. Bowing Down
This act fulfills Joseph's earlier dreams (Genesis 37:5-9) where his brothers' sheaves bowed to his sheaf, symbolizing their submission and his rise to prominence.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Timing
God's plans often unfold over time, and His purposes are fulfilled in His perfect timing, as seen in Joseph's journey from slavery to rulership.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph's account is a powerful example of forgiveness. Despite his brothers' betrayal, Joseph eventually forgives them, pointing to the importance of reconciliation in our relationships.

Providence in Adversity
Joseph's rise to power during a time of famine shows how God can use difficult circumstances for His glory and our good, encouraging us to trust Him in our trials.

Fulfillment of God's Promises
The fulfillment of Joseph's dreams reminds us that God's promises are sure, even if they take time to come to fruition.

Humility and Exaltation
Joseph's journey from a pit to a palace mirrors the biblical principle that humility precedes exaltation, encouraging us to remain humble and faithful.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's rise to power in Egypt demonstrate God's sovereignty and providence in our lives today?

2. In what ways can Joseph's response to his brothers' betrayal teach us about forgiveness and reconciliation in our own relationships?

3. How does the fulfillment of Joseph's dreams encourage us to trust in God's promises, even when they seem delayed?

4. What parallels can we draw between Joseph's account and the life of Jesus, particularly in terms of humility and exaltation?

5. How can we apply the lessons of Joseph's faithfulness and integrity in our own lives, especially during times of adversity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37:5-9
Joseph's dreams of his brothers bowing to him are fulfilled in this passage, demonstrating God's sovereignty and the fulfillment of His promises.

Genesis 41:41-44
Joseph's rise to power in Egypt is detailed, showing how God orchestrated events for His purposes.

Philippians 2:9-11
Just as Joseph was exalted and his brothers bowed to him, Christ is exalted, and every knee will bow to Him, illustrating a parallel of humility and exaltation.