Genesis 47:13

There 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.

Study Bible

There was no food
This phrase underscores the dire situation faced by the people of Egypt and Canaan. The Hebrew word for "food" here is "לֶחֶם" (lechem), which often refers to bread or sustenance in general. The absence of food signifies a complete lack of basic necessities, highlighting the severity of the famine. In a spiritual sense, this can be seen as a metaphor for the absence of spiritual nourishment, reminding believers of the importance of relying on God for sustenance in times of need.

however, in all the land
The phrase "in all the land" emphasizes the widespread nature of the famine. The Hebrew word for "land" is "אֶרֶץ" (eretz), which can mean earth, land, or country. This indicates that the famine was not localized but affected the entire region, including both Egypt and Canaan. Historically, this widespread famine would have had significant economic and social impacts, leading to desperation and a reliance on Joseph's leadership and God's provision.

because the famine was very severe
The severity of the famine is highlighted by the Hebrew word "כָּבֵד" (kaved), meaning heavy or grievous. This word choice conveys the intense hardship and suffering experienced by the people. From a theological perspective, such trials can be seen as tests of faith, where reliance on God's provision becomes paramount. The severity of the famine also sets the stage for God's plan to unfold through Joseph's wise stewardship.

the lands of Egypt and Canaan
This phrase identifies the specific regions affected by the famine. Egypt, known for its fertile Nile Delta, and Canaan, the land promised to Abraham's descendants, were both suffering. The mention of these lands serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty over all nations and His ability to use natural events to fulfill His purposes. Archaeological evidence supports the historical reality of famines in ancient Egypt, lending credibility to the biblical narrative.

languished because of the famine
The word "languished" is translated from the Hebrew "לָהָה" (lahah), meaning to faint or grow weak. This conveys the physical and emotional toll the famine took on the inhabitants of these lands. In a broader spiritual context, this can be seen as a call to believers to remain steadfast in faith during times of trial, trusting in God's provision and timing. The famine, while a period of suffering, ultimately led to the preservation and growth of Jacob's family, fulfilling God's covenant promises.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
As the governor of Egypt, Joseph was responsible for managing the resources during the famine. His leadership and wisdom were crucial in navigating this crisis.

2. Egypt
The land where Joseph served as governor. Egypt was a powerful nation, but even it was not immune to the severe famine.

3. Canaan
The land where Jacob and his family resided before moving to Egypt. It was also affected by the famine, prompting Jacob's sons to seek help in Egypt.

4. Famine
A severe shortage of food that affected both Egypt and Canaan, leading to widespread hardship and necessitating Joseph's strategic management of resources.

5. Jacob's Family
The family of Israel, who were directly impacted by the famine and eventually moved to Egypt for survival.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Crisis
The famine was severe, yet God had already positioned Joseph to provide for His people. This reminds us that God is in control, even in dire circumstances.

Wise Stewardship
Joseph's management of resources during the famine teaches us the importance of wise stewardship and planning, especially in times of abundance.

Trust in God's Provision
Despite the severity of the famine, God provided for Jacob's family. We can trust that God will meet our needs, even when resources seem scarce.

Interconnectedness of God's Plan
The famine affected both Egypt and Canaan, showing how God's plan often involves multiple people and nations. Our lives are interconnected, and our actions can have far-reaching impacts.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Joseph remained faithful to God throughout his trials, and God used him mightily. We are encouraged to remain steadfast in our faith, trusting that God can use our circumstances for His glory.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's role in managing the famine demonstrate God's sovereignty and provision?

2. In what ways can we practice wise stewardship of our resources today, following Joseph's example?

3. How does the account of the famine in Genesis 47:13 connect with God's broader plan for Israel and the world?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's faithfulness during adversity, and how can we apply this to our own lives?

5. How does the interconnectedness of Egypt and Canaan during the famine reflect the interconnectedness of our lives today, and how should this influence our actions and decisions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and his interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which predicted the famine.

Exodus 1
Describes the growth of the Israelites in Egypt, which began with their migration during the famine.

Psalm 105
Celebrates God's faithfulness and recounts the account of Joseph, highlighting God's providence during the famine.

Acts 7
Stephen's speech references Joseph's account, emphasizing God's sovereignty and provision through difficult times.