Genesis 40:19

Within three days Pharaoh will lift off your head and hang you on a tree. Then the birds will eat the flesh of your body."

Study Bible

Within three days
The phrase "within three days" indicates a specific and imminent timeframe. In biblical narratives, the number three often signifies completeness or divine intervention. This timeframe is reminiscent of other significant three-day periods in Scripture, such as Jonah's time in the belly of the fish (Jonah 1:17) and Jesus' resurrection on the third day (Matthew 16:21).

Pharaoh will lift off your head
This phrase is a direct prediction of the baker's execution. In ancient Egypt, Pharaoh held absolute power, and his decisions were final. The phrase "lift off your head" is a euphemism for execution, indicating the removal of the baker from his position and life. This reflects the absolute authority of Pharaoh, similar to the divine authority seen in God's judgments throughout the Bible.

and hang you on a tree.
Hanging on a tree was a method of execution and public display of shame in ancient cultures. In Deuteronomy 21:22-23, being hung on a tree is associated with being cursed by God. This foreshadows the crucifixion of Jesus, who was also "hung on a tree" (Acts 5:30), taking upon Himself the curse of sin for humanity (Galatians 3:13).

Then the birds will eat the flesh of your body.
This imagery of birds eating flesh signifies utter disgrace and divine judgment. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, not receiving a proper burial was considered a great dishonor. This is echoed in other biblical passages, such as 1 Samuel 17:44, where Goliath threatens David with a similar fate. The imagery also parallels the prophetic visions in Revelation, where birds feast on the flesh of those judged by God (Revelation 19:17-18).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew man who was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt. He is currently imprisoned and has been given the ability to interpret dreams by God.

2. Pharaoh's Chief Baker
An Egyptian official who was imprisoned alongside Joseph. He had a dream that Joseph interpreted, predicting his execution.

3. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who had imprisoned his chief baker and chief cupbearer. His birthday celebration is the event where the baker's fate is sealed.

4. Prison
The place where Joseph, the chief baker, and the chief cupbearer are held. It serves as the setting for the dreams and their interpretations.

5. Dream Interpretation
A significant event where Joseph interprets the dreams of Pharaoh's officials, showcasing God's power and Joseph's faithfulness.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Interpretation
Joseph's ability to interpret dreams is a gift from God, emphasizing that true wisdom and understanding come from Him.

The Reality of Judgment
The chief baker's fate serves as a reminder of the reality of divine judgment and the importance of being prepared to meet God.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Despite his circumstances, Joseph remains faithful to God, using his gifts to serve others even in prison.

The Consequences of Sin
The baker's execution can be seen as a consequence of wrongdoing, highlighting the biblical principle that sin leads to death.

Hope in God's Plan
While the baker's account ends tragically, Joseph's account continues, reminding us that God has a plan even in difficult situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's interpretation of the baker's dream demonstrate God's sovereignty and Joseph's faithfulness?

2. In what ways can we see the theme of divine judgment in Genesis 40:19, and how does it relate to other biblical accounts of judgment?

3. How can Joseph's faithfulness in adversity inspire us to remain faithful in our own challenging circumstances?

4. What lessons can we learn from the chief baker's fate about the consequences of sin and the importance of repentance?

5. How does the imagery of being "hung on a tree" in Genesis 40:19 connect to the New Testament, particularly the crucifixion of Jesus, and what does this teach us about redemption?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
Joseph's ability to interpret dreams is further demonstrated when he interprets Pharaoh's dreams, leading to his rise to power in Egypt.

Daniel 2
Similar to Joseph, Daniel interprets dreams for a foreign king, showcasing God's sovereignty and the faithfulness of His servants.

Matthew 27
The imagery of being "hung on a tree" can be connected to the crucifixion of Jesus, where He bore the curse for humanity's sins.