Genesis 40:2

Pharaoh was angry with his two officers, the chief cupbearer and the chief baker,

Study Bible

Pharaoh was angry with his two officers
Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, held absolute power and was considered a god by his people. His anger would have been a serious matter, reflecting the absolute authority he wielded. In the ancient Near East, kings often had the power of life and death over their subjects. The term "officers" indicates these men held significant positions within Pharaoh's court, responsible for critical duties. This context highlights the gravity of their offense, whatever it may have been, and sets the stage for the unfolding events in Joseph's life.

the chief cupbearer
The chief cupbearer was a high-ranking official responsible for serving wine to Pharaoh. This role was not merely about serving drinks; it involved significant trust, as the cupbearer had to ensure the safety of the king's drink, protecting him from poisoning. This position often allowed the cupbearer to become a close confidant of the king, as seen in Nehemiah 1:11, where Nehemiah serves as cupbearer to the Persian king. The cupbearer's fall from grace would have been a notable event in the royal court.

and the chief baker
The chief baker was another important official, responsible for preparing the king's food. Like the cupbearer, the baker's role required trustworthiness, as he was responsible for the safety and quality of the food served to Pharaoh. The mention of both the cupbearer and the baker suggests a possible conspiracy or serious breach of trust, as both positions were crucial to the king's daily life. This incident foreshadows the dreams they will have, which Joseph will interpret, leading to his rise in Egypt.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, considered a god by his people, who held absolute power over the land and its inhabitants.

2. Chief Cupbearer
An important official in Pharaoh's court responsible for serving wine and ensuring it was not poisoned. His role required trust and loyalty.

3. Chief Baker
Another high-ranking official responsible for preparing and overseeing the baking of bread and other baked goods for Pharaoh's household.

4. Prison
The place where both the chief cupbearer and the chief baker were confined after Pharaoh became angry with them. This is where they encountered Joseph.

5. Joseph
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Joseph is a key figure in this chapter, as he interprets the dreams of the cupbearer and baker while they are in prison.

Teaching Points

Divine Providence in Adversity
Joseph's presence in prison, though a result of injustice, was part of God's plan to elevate him. Trust in God's sovereignty even in difficult circumstances.

The Importance of Integrity
The roles of the cupbearer and baker required trustworthiness. As Christians, we are called to be faithful and trustworthy in our responsibilities.

God's Timing and Purpose
The anger of Pharaoh, though seemingly negative, set the stage for Joseph's rise. God's purposes often unfold in unexpected ways.

Interpreting Dreams and God's Wisdom
Joseph's ability to interpret dreams was a gift from God, emphasizing the importance of seeking divine wisdom in our lives.

The Role of Authority and Submission
Pharaoh's authority over his officers reminds us of the importance of respecting and submitting to authority, as long as it aligns with God's will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the role of the chief cupbearer and chief baker in Pharaoh's court compare to positions of trust and responsibility in our lives today?

2. In what ways can we see God's providence at work in situations that initially seem negative or unjust?

3. How can Joseph's response to his circumstances in prison inspire us to maintain integrity and faithfulness in our own trials?

4. What lessons can we learn from the way God used Joseph's gift of dream interpretation to fulfill His purposes?

5. How can we apply the principle of respecting authority in our daily lives, and what are the limits of this submission according to Scripture?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 39
Provides context for Joseph's presence in prison, having been wrongfully accused by Potiphar's wife.

Nehemiah 1
Nehemiah, like the chief cupbearer, served as a cupbearer to a king, highlighting the trust and influence such a position held.

Daniel 1
Daniel, like Joseph, was a Hebrew who found favor in a foreign court and interpreted dreams, showing God's providence and wisdom.