Definition and Etymology:
The term "Abrech" is a Hebrew word that appears in the Old Testament, specifically in the book of Genesis. The word is often translated as "bow the knee" or "make way," and it is associated with the act of showing respect or submission. The etymology of "Abrech" is somewhat uncertain, but it is generally understood to be a command or exclamation used in the context of honoring someone of high status.

Biblical Context:
The word "Abrech" is found in Genesis 41:43, during the account of Joseph's rise to power in Egypt. After interpreting Pharaoh's dreams and advising him on how to prepare for the coming famine, Joseph is elevated to a position of great authority, second only to Pharaoh himself. As part of his new status, Joseph is paraded through the land of Egypt in a chariot, and the people are commanded to show him respect.

Scriptural Reference:
Genesis 41:43 : "He had Joseph ride in his second chariot, with men calling out before him, 'Abrech!' So they placed him over all the land of Egypt."

Cultural and Historical Significance:
In the ancient Near Eastern context, public displays of honor and submission were common when acknowledging the authority of a ruler or high-ranking official. The command "Abrech" would have been a way to ensure that the populace recognized Joseph's new position and authority. This act of bowing or making way would have been a visible sign of Joseph's elevated status and the respect he commanded as Pharaoh's appointed leader.

Interpretation and Usage:
The use of "Abrech" in Genesis highlights the dramatic change in Joseph's fortunes, from a Hebrew slave and prisoner to a powerful leader in Egypt. It underscores the theme of divine providence and the fulfillment of God's promises, as Joseph's earlier dreams of leadership and authority come to fruition. The term also reflects the broader biblical theme of humility and exaltation, where those who are faithful and humble are ultimately raised to positions of honor.

Linguistic Notes:
The precise meaning and pronunciation of "Abrech" have been the subject of scholarly debate. Some suggest it may be derived from an Egyptian word or phrase, given the Egyptian setting of the narrative. Others propose that it is a Hebrew term with a specific cultural connotation. Despite these uncertainties, the context in which "Abrech" is used provides a clear indication of its function as a command for respect and recognition.ABRECH

a'-brek: Transliteration of the Hebrew 'abhrekh, in Genesis 41:43 the Revised Version, margin, of which both the origin and meaning are uncertain. It was the salutation which the Egyptians addressed to Joseph, when he was made second to Pharaoh, and appeared in his official chariot.

(1) The explanations based upon Hebrew derivation are unsatisfactory, whether as the King James Version "bow the knee," from barakh (hiphil imperative) or marginal "tender father," or "father of a king" of the Targum. The form as Hiphil Imperative instead of habhrekh, is indefensible, while the other two derivations are fanciful.

(2) The surmises of Egyptologists are almost without number, and none are conclusive. Skinner in his Commentary on Genesis selects "attention!" after Spiegelberg, as best. Speaker's Commentary suggests "rejoice thou" from ab-nek. BDB gives preference to the Coptic a-bor-k, "prostrate thyself."

(3) The most satisfying parallel is the Assyrian abarakku, meaning "grand vizier" or "friend of a king," as suggested by Fried. Delitzsch; for Babylonian laws and customs were dominant in western Asia, and the Hyksos, through whom such titles would have been carried into Egypt, were ruling there at that time. Edward Mack

Abrech (1 Occurrence)
... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ABRECH. a'-brek: Transliteration ... time. Edward Mack.
Multi-Version Concordance Abrech (1 Occurrence). Genesis 41 ...
/a/abrech.htm - 8k

Abreast (1 Occurrence)

/a/abreast.htm - 7k

Second-in-command (1 Occurrence)
... Genesis 41:43 And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they
cried before him: 'Abrech'; and he set him over all the land of Egypt. ...
/s/second-in-command.htm - 6k

Abroad (120 Occurrences)

/a/abroad.htm - 39k

Joseph (248 Occurrences)
... The investiture of Joseph was thoroughly Egyptian-the "collar," the signet "ring,"
the "chariot" and the outrunners who cried before him "Abrech." The exact ...
/j/joseph.htm - 91k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus