Genesis 40:20

On the third day, which was Pharaoh's birthday, he held a feast for all his officials, and in their presence he lifted up the heads of the chief cupbearer and the chief baker.

Study Bible

On the third day
The third day is often significant in biblical narratives, symbolizing completion and divine intervention. In the context of Joseph's story, it marks the fulfillment of the dreams he interpreted. The number three frequently appears in Scripture, such as in the resurrection of Jesus on the third day, indicating a pattern of God's redemptive work.

which was Pharaoh’s birthday
Pharaoh's birthday was a significant event in ancient Egypt, often celebrated with great pomp and ceremony. Birthdays of rulers were occasions for public feasting and displays of power. This context highlights the cultural practices of the time and sets the stage for the events that follow. The mention of Pharaoh's birthday is unique in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of the occasion.

he held a feast for all his officials
Feasts were common in ancient Near Eastern cultures, serving as opportunities for rulers to display wealth and reinforce social hierarchies. This feast would have been a grand affair, attended by high-ranking officials and courtiers. The gathering of officials underscores the public nature of the events that transpire, adding weight to the decisions made by Pharaoh.

and in their presence
The public setting of the feast indicates that the actions taken by Pharaoh were meant to be seen and understood by his court. This visibility underscores the authority of Pharaoh and the importance of the decisions regarding the chief cupbearer and the chief baker. It also reflects the transparency of justice in the royal court, where decisions were made in the presence of witnesses.

he lifted up the heads of the chief cupbearer and the chief baker
"Lifting up the heads" is a Hebrew idiom that can mean to restore to a position or to execute judgment. In this context, it signifies the outcome of the dreams Joseph interpreted: the restoration of the cupbearer and the execution of the baker. This phrase foreshadows the fulfillment of Joseph's interpretations, demonstrating his God-given ability to discern dreams. The contrasting fates of the two men also serve as a reminder of divine justice and the sovereignty of God in human affairs.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who is celebrating his birthday with a feast. His decisions are pivotal in the account of Joseph.

2. Chief Cupbearer
An official in Pharaoh's court who was imprisoned with Joseph. His dream interpreted by Joseph foretold his restoration to his position.

3. Chief Baker
Another official in Pharaoh's court, also imprisoned with Joseph. His dream, interpreted by Joseph, foretold his execution.

4. Joseph
Although not mentioned directly in this verse, Joseph is the interpreter of the dreams that lead to the events of this day. He remains in prison, awaiting his own deliverance.

5. Egypt
The setting of the account, a place of both trial and eventual triumph for Joseph.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Timing
The events unfold on Pharaoh's birthday, a reminder that God's timing is perfect and often aligns with human events in unexpected ways.

The Role of Dreams
Dreams in the Bible often serve as a means of divine communication. Joseph's faithfulness in interpreting them shows his trust in God's revelations.

Justice and Mercy
The contrasting fates of the cupbearer and baker illustrate the themes of justice and mercy, reminding us of God's ultimate authority in these matters.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Joseph's continued faithfulness, even when forgotten by the cupbearer, encourages believers to remain steadfast in trials.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the outcome of the chief cupbearer and chief baker's dreams reflect God's justice and mercy?

2. In what ways does Joseph's situation in Genesis 40:20 encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan for our lives?

3. How can we apply the lesson of faithfulness in adversity from Joseph's life to our current challenges?

4. What parallels can we draw between the events of Pharaoh's feast and other biblical feasts or celebrations?

5. How does the account of Joseph and the dreams in Genesis 40 connect to the broader theme of God's sovereignty throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
The continuation of Joseph's account, where his ability to interpret dreams leads to his rise in power.

Esther 1
Another example of a royal feast, showing the cultural significance of such events in ancient times.

Matthew 14
The birthday feast of Herod, which also leads to a significant and grim outcome, drawing a parallel to the fate of the chief baker.

Psalm 75:7
This verse speaks to God as the ultimate judge who lifts up and brings down, reflecting the outcomes for the cupbearer and baker.