Genesis 47

Chapter 47: Joseph's Leadership in Egypt

Background History and Timeline: Genesis, traditionally attributed to Moses, was written around the 15th century BCE. It covers events from the creation of the world to the patriarchs of Israel.

Locations Mentioned: The chapter primarily focuses on Egypt, where Joseph holds a position of authority.

Themes and Conflicts: Genesis 47 narrates Joseph's leadership during the famine in Egypt and his family's settlement in the land. It explores themes of providence, stewardship, and the sovereignty of God.

Main Characters: Joseph, Pharaoh, Jacob (Israel), and the people of Egypt are the main characters in this chapter.

Specific Passages:

• Genesis 47:23-24: "Then Joseph said to the people, 'Behold, I have this day bought you and your land for Pharaoh. Now here is seed for you, and you shall sow the land. And at the harvests you shall give a fifth to Pharaoh, and four fifths shall be your own, as seed for the field and as food for yourselves and your households, and as food for your little ones.'"

Explanation: Genesis 47 describes how Joseph, in his position of authority under Pharaoh, manages the famine in Egypt by implementing a system of grain distribution and land acquisition. As the famine worsens, people from all over Egypt and neighboring lands come to Joseph to buy grain.

Joseph collects all the money in Egypt and Canaan in exchange for grain, eventually acquiring all the land and livestock for Pharaoh except for that of the priests. He relocates the people to cities and institutes a tax of one-fifth of their produce for Pharaoh, while allowing them to keep the rest for themselves.

The chapter also depicts Jacob's reunion with Joseph in Egypt and his blessing of Pharaoh. Jacob and his family settle in the land of Goshen, where they prosper and multiply.

Genesis 47 illustrates Joseph's wise leadership and stewardship during the famine, as well as God's providential care for His people in preserving them during times of hardship. It highlights the themes of trust in God's sovereignty and the importance of wise governance and stewardship in times of crisis.

Moses is traditionally attributed as the author of Genesis, including Chapter 47.