Genesis 40:8

"We both had dreams," they replied, "but there is no one to interpret them." Then Joseph said to them, "Don't interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams."

Study Bible

“We both had dreams,” they replied
In the ancient Near East, dreams were often considered significant and could be seen as messages from the divine. The context here is Joseph's imprisonment in Egypt, where he encounters Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker. Dreams in this culture were not just personal experiences but were often believed to have implications for the future or for the community. The fact that both men had dreams on the same night suggests a divine orchestration, setting the stage for Joseph's role in God's plan.

“but there is no one to interpret them.”
In Egyptian culture, professional dream interpreters were common, often serving in the royal court. The cupbearer and baker's statement highlights their isolation and the absence of these professionals in prison. This sets the stage for Joseph, who, unlike the Egyptian magicians, attributes the ability to interpret dreams to God. This moment underscores the limitations of human wisdom and the need for divine insight.

Then Joseph said to them,
Joseph's response is immediate and confident, reflecting his faith and trust in God. Despite his own unjust circumstances, Joseph remains attentive to the needs of others, demonstrating his character and leadership qualities. This interaction is pivotal, as it eventually leads to his rise to power in Egypt.

“Don’t interpretations belong to God?
Joseph's rhetorical question emphasizes the sovereignty of God over all things, including the mysteries of dreams. This statement is a declaration of monotheism in a polytheistic culture, asserting that true wisdom and understanding come from the one true God. It also foreshadows Joseph's role as a prophet-like figure, through whom God reveals His plans.

Tell me your dreams.”
Joseph invites the men to share their dreams, positioning himself as a vessel through which God can work. This act of faith and service is a turning point in Joseph's life, leading to his eventual release and rise to power. It also prefigures the role of Jesus Christ, who invites humanity to bring their burdens to Him, offering divine insight and redemption.

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 but remains faithful to God and is given the ability to interpret dreams.

2. Cupbearer and Baker
Two officials of Pharaoh who were imprisoned with Joseph. They each had a dream that troubled them, leading to the events of this passage.

3. Prison in Egypt
The setting of this passage, where Joseph is held and where he encounters the cupbearer and baker.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God for Wisdom
Joseph's response highlights the importance of seeking God's wisdom in all matters, recognizing that true understanding comes from Him.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Despite his circumstances, Joseph remains faithful and uses his God-given gifts to serve others, demonstrating integrity and trust in God's plan.

God's Sovereignty in Interpretation
Joseph acknowledges that interpretations belong to God, reminding us of His ultimate authority and control over all things.

Using Spiritual Gifts for God's Glory
Joseph uses his gift of interpretation to help others, setting an example of how we should use our spiritual gifts to serve and glorify God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to the cupbearer and baker demonstrate his faith in God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when faced with uncertainty?

2. In what ways does Joseph's ability to interpret dreams reflect the spiritual gifts mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12, and how can we identify and use our own gifts for God's purposes?

3. How does the account of Joseph in Genesis 40:8 encourage us to remain faithful and trust in God's plan, even when we are in difficult situations?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's acknowledgment that interpretations belong to God about seeking wisdom and understanding in our daily lives?

5. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Genesis 40:8 connect with other biblical accounts, such as Daniel's account, and what does this teach us about God's role in guiding our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 2
Similar to Joseph, Daniel interprets dreams for King Nebuchadnezzar, emphasizing that interpretations belong to God.

1 Corinthians 12
Discusses spiritual gifts, including wisdom and knowledge, which can be seen in Joseph's ability to interpret dreams.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who gives generously, reflecting Joseph's reliance on God for interpretation.