Genesis 47:16

"Then bring me your livestock," said Joseph. "Since the money is gone, I will sell you food in exchange for your livestock."

Study Bible

Then Joseph said
This phrase introduces Joseph as the central figure in this narrative. Joseph, the son of Jacob, is now the vizier of Egypt, a position of immense power and responsibility. His journey from being sold into slavery by his brothers to becoming the second most powerful man in Egypt is a testament to God's providence and faithfulness. The Hebrew root for "said" is "אָמַר" (amar), which often implies not just speaking but also commanding or advising, reflecting Joseph's authoritative role.

Give me your livestock
In the context of the severe famine described in Genesis, Joseph's request for livestock in exchange for food is a pragmatic solution to a dire situation. Livestock was a valuable asset in ancient agrarian societies, representing wealth, sustenance, and economic stability. By asking for livestock, Joseph ensures that the people have a means to survive while also maintaining the economic structure of Egypt. The Hebrew word for "livestock" is "מִקְנֶה" (miqneh), which encompasses cattle, sheep, and other domesticated animals, highlighting their importance in the ancient world.

since the money has run out
This phrase indicates the severity of the famine and the depletion of resources among the people. The economic crisis forced the Egyptians to barter their possessions for survival. The Hebrew word for "money" is "כֶּסֶף" (kesef), which also means silver, a common medium of exchange in the ancient Near East. The depletion of money signifies a complete economic collapse, necessitating Joseph's intervention. This situation underscores the wisdom and foresight of Joseph, who had stored grain during the years of plenty, as well as the fulfillment of God's plan to preserve His people through Joseph's leadership.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. He is a key figure in this passage, managing the resources of Egypt during a severe famine.

2. Egypt
The land where Joseph served under Pharaoh. It was experiencing a severe famine, which affected not only Egypt but also the surrounding regions.

3. Famine
A severe shortage of food that affected Egypt and the surrounding areas, leading to desperate measures for survival.

4. Livestock
The animals owned by the people of Egypt, which became a form of currency in exchange for food during the famine.

5. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, under whom Joseph served. Pharaoh entrusted Joseph with the management of Egypt's resources during the famine.

Teaching Points

Stewardship and Wisdom
Joseph's management of resources during the famine is a powerful example of wise stewardship. Believers are called to manage their resources wisely, preparing for future needs while trusting in God's provision.

Trust in God's Provision
While Joseph provided for the people of Egypt, it is ultimately God who provides for our needs. We should trust in His provision and not be anxious about material needs.

The Cost of Desperation
The Egyptians' willingness to trade their livestock for food highlights the desperation that can arise in times of crisis. It serves as a reminder to seek God's guidance and provision rather than relying solely on human solutions.

Generosity in Times of Need
Joseph's actions, though transactional, ensured the survival of many. Believers are encouraged to be generous and compassionate, especially in times of need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's management of resources during the famine reflect principles of wise stewardship, and how can we apply these principles in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and the famine challenge us to trust in God's provision, even in difficult circumstances?

3. How can we balance the need for prudent planning with a reliance on God's provision, as seen in Joseph's actions and Jesus' teachings in Matthew 6?

4. What lessons can we learn from the Egyptians' desperation during the famine, and how can we apply these lessons to our own times of crisis?

5. How can we demonstrate generosity and compassion to those in need, following the example of Joseph's provision for the people of Egypt?

Connections to Other Scriptures

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

Proverbs 6:6-8
This passage encourages wisdom and foresight, similar to Joseph's prudent management of resources during the years of plenty in preparation for the famine.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about trusting God for provision, which can be contrasted with the desperate measures taken by the Egyptians during the famine.