Genesis 41:56

When the famine had spread over all the land, Joseph opened up all the storehouses and sold grain to the Egyptians; for the famine was severe in the land of Egypt.

Study Bible

When the famine had spread over all the land
The phrase "famine had spread" indicates a widespread and severe shortage of food, which is a recurring theme in the Bible often used to signify divine testing or judgment. The Hebrew word for "famine" is "רָעָב" (ra'av), which not only refers to physical hunger but can also symbolize spiritual desolation. Historically, famines were common in the ancient Near East due to unpredictable weather patterns and reliance on agriculture. This particular famine, as described in Genesis, was part of God's sovereign plan to elevate Joseph and preserve the lineage of Israel.

Joseph opened all the storehouses
The act of "opening the storehouses" signifies Joseph's role as a wise and discerning leader. The Hebrew root for "storehouses" is "אוֹצָר" (otzar), meaning a treasury or a place where valuable resources are kept. Joseph's foresight in storing grain during the years of plenty reflects his obedience to God's revelation through Pharaoh's dreams. This action not only saved Egypt but also set the stage for the eventual migration of Jacob's family to Egypt, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham.

and sold grain to the Egyptians
The selling of grain highlights Joseph's administrative skills and the economic strategies employed to manage the crisis. The Hebrew word for "sold" is "מָכַר" (makar), which implies a transaction or exchange. This was not merely a distribution of charity but a structured economic plan that ensured the sustainability of resources. Joseph's actions can be seen as a precursor to the concept of stewardship, where resources are managed wisely for the benefit of all.

For the famine was severe in the land of Egypt
The severity of the famine underscores the gravity of the situation and the necessity of Joseph's intervention. The Hebrew word for "severe" is "חָזָק" (chazaq), meaning strong or intense. This emphasizes the dire circumstances that required divine intervention through Joseph's leadership. The land of Egypt, often seen as a place of refuge and abundance, was now experiencing hardship, demonstrating that even the mightiest nations are subject to God's will. This serves as a reminder of the transient nature of earthly resources and the importance of relying on God's provision.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. He is a key figure in this passage, responsible for managing Egypt's resources during the famine.

2. Egypt
The land where Joseph served under Pharaoh. It became the center of survival during the famine due to Joseph's foresight and God's providence.

3. Famine
A severe shortage of food that affected not only Egypt but also the surrounding regions. It was a pivotal event that led to Joseph's family eventually coming to Egypt.

4. Storehouses
These were the places where Joseph stored the grain during the seven years of plenty, as per Pharaoh's dream interpretation.

5. Egyptians
The people of Egypt who were directly affected by the famine and relied on Joseph's management of resources for survival.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty and Provision
God orchestrates events for His purposes, as seen in Joseph's rise to power and the provision during the famine.

Wisdom in Preparation
Joseph's management of resources during the years of plenty teaches the importance of planning and preparation for future challenges.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Joseph remained faithful to God despite his circumstances, and God used him mightily. This encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith.

Compassion and Stewardship
Joseph's actions during the famine demonstrate compassion and responsible stewardship, reminding us to care for others in times of need.

God's Redemptive Plan
The famine set the stage for the eventual migration of Jacob's family to Egypt, which was part of God's larger plan for Israel.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's management of the famine in Egypt demonstrate God's sovereignty and provision?

2. In what ways can we apply Joseph's example of preparation and foresight in our own lives today?

3. How does the account of Joseph and the famine connect to the broader account of God's redemptive plan for Israel?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's faithfulness and integrity in the face of adversity?

5. How can we practice compassion and stewardship in our communities, especially during times of crisis or need?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41:47-49
These verses describe the years of abundance and Joseph's preparation for the famine, highlighting his wisdom and God's provision.

Genesis 42:1-3
This passage shows the impact of the famine beyond Egypt, prompting Joseph's brothers to seek grain in Egypt, setting the stage for family reconciliation.

Proverbs 6:6-8
This passage about the ant's preparation for winter parallels Joseph's foresight and diligence in preparing for the famine.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about trusting God for provision, which can be related to how God provided for Egypt and Joseph's family through Joseph's leadership.