Topical Encyclopedia The phrase "money was current with the merchants" is found in the context of the biblical narrative of Joseph in Egypt, specifically in Genesis 42:35. This phrase highlights the economic practices and the use of currency in ancient times, particularly during the period of Joseph's administration in Egypt.Biblical Context In Genesis 42, the sons of Jacob travel to Egypt to buy grain during a severe famine. Joseph, who had risen to a position of power in Egypt, recognizes his brothers but does not reveal his identity. As part of his strategy to test them, he secretly returns their money in their grain sacks. When they discover this upon their return home, they are filled with fear, as the money was supposed to be used for the purchase of grain. The phrase "money was current with the merchants" (Genesis 42:35) indicates that the money they used was recognized and accepted as legitimate currency in commercial transactions. Historical and Economic Insights The mention of money being "current with the merchants" provides insight into the economic systems of the ancient Near East. During this period, trade and commerce were vital for survival, especially in times of famine. The use of money as a medium of exchange suggests a developed economic system where goods and services could be traded efficiently. This system would have been essential in a cosmopolitan center like Egypt, which was a hub of trade and commerce. The currency in question would likely have been silver, as it was commonly used in transactions during this era. The use of silver as money is corroborated by archaeological findings and other ancient texts, which indicate that silver was weighed and used in trade long before the invention of coinage. Theological Implications From a theological perspective, the narrative underscores themes of providence and divine orchestration. Joseph's rise to power and the subsequent economic policies he implemented were part of God's plan to preserve the family of Israel. The use of money in this context serves as a tool within God's sovereign plan, facilitating the survival of Jacob's family and the eventual fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham. Moreover, the incident with the returned money highlights the moral and ethical considerations in financial dealings. The brothers' fear upon discovering the money reflects an awareness of integrity and honesty in transactions, values that are consistent with biblical teachings on stewardship and righteousness. Cultural and Social Considerations The phrase also reflects the cultural and social dynamics of the time. The acceptance of money by merchants indicates a level of trust and standardization in economic transactions. This trust was crucial for maintaining social order and ensuring the smooth operation of trade networks, which were vital for the prosperity of nations like Egypt. In summary, the phrase "money was current with the merchants" in Genesis 42:35 provides a window into the economic practices of the ancient world, illustrating the complexity and sophistication of trade systems in biblical times. It also serves as a reminder of the ethical dimensions of financial dealings and the overarching providence of God in the affairs of humanity. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 23:16And Abraham listened to Ephron; and Abraham weighed to Ephron the silver, which he had named in the audience of the sons of Heth, four hundred shekels of silver, current money with the merchant. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Commerce Jacob Jones; Or, the Man who Couldn't Get Along in the World. Concerning the Famine that Happened in Judea and Syria; and How ... Connecticut at the Close of the Revolution Internal Foes. The Greatest English Classic The Acceptable Sacrifice; Be not Conformed to this World. Romans 12:2. Two Coverings and Two Consequences Two Coverings and Two Consequences Resources Should the church accept money if it is obtained in an ungodly manner? | GotQuestions.orgShould a Christian invest money in the stock market? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about handling money in a marriage? | GotQuestions.org Money: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Money Changers: General Scriptures Concerning Money of the Jews Regulated by the Standard of Sanctuary Money of the Romans, Stamped With the Image of Caesar Money was Current With the Merchants Money was Given for Merchandise Money was Given: Custom of Presenting a Piece of Money was Given: Love of, the Root of all Evil Money was Given: Power and Usefulness of Money: Brass Introduced As, by the Romans Money: Gold and Silver Used As Money: Jews Forbidden to Take Usury For Money: Love of, the Root of Evil Money: Originally Stamped With the Image of a Lamb Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Farthing Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Fourth of a Shekel Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Gerah the Twentieth of a Shekel Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Half Shekel or Bekah Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Mite Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Penny Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Pound Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Shekel of Silver Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Talent of Gold Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Talent of Silver Money: Pieces of Mentioned: Third of a Shekel Money: Usually Taken by Weight Money: Value of, Varied Corruptly Related Terms Money-changers (5 Occurrences) Redemption-money (3 Occurrences) |
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