Topical Encyclopedia Background and ContextJoseph, the eleventh son of Jacob and the firstborn of Rachel, is a central figure in the narrative of Genesis. His account, which spans Genesis 37-50, is one of betrayal, providence, and redemption. Joseph's journey to Egypt as a fugitive is a pivotal moment in biblical history, setting the stage for the eventual migration of the Israelites to Egypt. The Betrayal and Sale into Slavery Joseph's journey to Egypt begins with familial discord. Favored by his father Jacob, Joseph receives a richly ornamented robe, inciting jealousy among his brothers (Genesis 37:3-4). His dreams, which suggest his future preeminence over his family, further exacerbate their envy (Genesis 37:5-11). The turning point occurs when Joseph's brothers conspire against him. Initially plotting to kill him, they ultimately decide to sell him into slavery. "Come, let us sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay a hand on him; for he is our brother, our own flesh," Judah suggests, and his brothers agree (Genesis 37:27). Joseph is sold for twenty shekels of silver to Midianite traders, who take him to Egypt (Genesis 37:28). Joseph in Egypt In Egypt, Joseph is sold to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard (Genesis 37:36). Despite his status as a slave, Joseph finds favor in Potiphar's eyes due to the LORD's presence with him, which brings success in all he does (Genesis 39:2-4). However, Joseph's integrity leads to false accusations by Potiphar's wife, resulting in his imprisonment (Genesis 39:19-20). Even in prison, the LORD remains with Joseph, granting him favor in the sight of the prison warden (Genesis 39:21-23). Joseph's ability to interpret dreams, a gift from God, eventually brings him to the attention of Pharaoh. Interpreting Pharaoh's dreams, Joseph predicts seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine (Genesis 41:14-30). Elevation and Reconciliation Impressed by Joseph's wisdom, Pharaoh appoints him as second-in-command over Egypt, entrusting him with the task of preparing for the impending famine (Genesis 41:39-41). Joseph's strategic planning ensures Egypt's survival and prosperity during the years of scarcity. The famine extends beyond Egypt, affecting Canaan and prompting Joseph's brothers to seek grain in Egypt. Unbeknownst to them, they stand before the brother they once betrayed. Through a series of tests, Joseph discerns their repentance and ultimately reveals his identity, leading to a tearful reconciliation (Genesis 45:1-15). Significance in Salvation History Joseph's journey to Egypt as a fugitive is a testament to God's providential care and sovereignty. What his brothers intended for harm, God used for good, preserving the lineage of Israel and setting the stage for the eventual Exodus (Genesis 50:20). Joseph's account foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who, like Joseph, was rejected by His own but became the means of salvation for many. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 2:13-15And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be you there until I bring you word: for Herod will seek the young child to destroy him. Nave's Topical Index Library A Calm Evening, Promising a Bright Morning Matt. Ii. 2 Egypt Author's Preface. The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Psalm LXXVII. The Reaction against Egypt The Training of a Statesman. And After. (xxx, xxxi, xxxix-Xliv. ) The Nations of the South-East Resources What was the significance of the horns of the altar (Amos 3:14)? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God judge Edom so harshly in the book of Obadiah? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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