Genesis 47:3

"What is your occupation?" Pharaoh asked Joseph's brothers. "Your servants are shepherds," they replied, "both we and our fathers."

Study Bible

“What is your occupation?”
Pharaoh's question to Joseph's brothers is significant in the context of ancient Egypt, where occupations were often tied to social status and identity. In Egyptian society, shepherds were generally looked down upon, as Egyptians considered sheep unclean. This question also reflects the importance of work and identity in the biblical narrative, where one's occupation often signifies one's role and purpose. The inquiry by Pharaoh can be seen as a test of character and honesty, as well as a means to understand the newcomers' place in the Egyptian social hierarchy.

Pharaoh asked Joseph’s brothers.
This interaction highlights the favor Joseph had with Pharaoh, allowing his family direct access to the ruler of Egypt. It underscores Joseph's elevated status and the trust Pharaoh placed in him. The presence of Joseph's brothers before Pharaoh fulfills the earlier dreams Joseph had, where his family would bow to him, indicating his leadership and God's providence in their lives. This moment also sets the stage for the Israelites' settlement in Egypt, which is a pivotal development in the biblical narrative.

“Your servants are shepherds,” they replied,
The brothers' response is straightforward and honest, acknowledging their humble occupation. This admission aligns with their identity and heritage, as shepherding was a common occupation among the patriarchs, including Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The term "servants" reflects a posture of humility and respect towards Pharaoh, recognizing his authority. This response also foreshadows the Israelites' future as a distinct people within Egypt, maintaining their cultural and occupational identity.

“both we and our fathers.”
By mentioning their fathers, the brothers emphasize the continuity and tradition of their occupation, linking themselves to their ancestral heritage. This connection to their forefathers highlights the importance of family and tradition in the biblical narrative. It also serves as a reminder of God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, reinforcing the idea that the Israelites are a chosen people with a distinct purpose. This phrase underscores the theme of faithfulness to one's heritage and the enduring nature of God's promises throughout generations.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, who holds significant power and authority. In this context, he is interacting with Joseph's brothers.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob, who have come to Egypt due to the famine in Canaan. They are seeking sustenance and a place to live.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his family seeks refuge during the famine.

4. Shepherds
The occupation of Joseph's brothers, which is significant in the cultural and historical context of the time.

Teaching Points

Cultural Identity and Faithfulness
Joseph's brothers openly declare their occupation as shepherds, despite its low status in Egyptian society. This teaches us the importance of maintaining our identity and values, even when they are counter-cultural.

God's Provision in Times of Need
The brothers' journey to Egypt and their interaction with Pharaoh demonstrate God's provision and guidance during times of famine and hardship. We can trust God to provide for us in our times of need.

Humility and Service
The occupation of shepherding, often seen as humble and lowly, is embraced by Joseph's family. This reflects the biblical theme that God values humility and service over status and power.

Intercultural Interactions
The encounter between Joseph's family and Pharaoh highlights the challenges and opportunities in intercultural interactions. As Christians, we are called to navigate these interactions with wisdom and integrity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the occupation of shepherding, as mentioned in Genesis 47:3, reflect the values and identity of Joseph's family? How can we apply this to maintaining our Christian identity in a secular world?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and his brothers in Egypt illustrate God's provision during difficult times? Can you think of a personal experience where you have seen God's provision?

3. How does the cultural perception of shepherds in Egypt compare to the biblical portrayal of shepherds? What does this teach us about God's values versus societal values?

4. How can we apply the humility and service demonstrated by Joseph's brothers in our own lives and communities today?

5. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's family's interaction with Pharaoh about engaging with people from different cultural or religious backgrounds? How can these lessons be applied in our current context?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 46:31-34
Joseph instructs his brothers on how to present themselves to Pharaoh, emphasizing their occupation as shepherds, which is detestable to Egyptians. This highlights the cultural differences and potential challenges they face.

Exodus 3:1
Moses, another key biblical figure, is also a shepherd, showing the continuity of this humble occupation among God's chosen leaders.

Psalm 23:1
The Lord is described as a shepherd, illustrating the spiritual significance and positive connotations of shepherding in the biblical account.