What does Genesis 47:17 mean?
"And they brought their cattle unto Joseph: and Joseph gave them bread in exchange for horses, and for the flocks, and for the cattle of the herds, and for the asses: and he fed them with bread for all their cattle for that year." - Genesis 47:17
Genesis 47:17 (KJV) says: "And they brought their cattle unto Joseph: and Joseph gave them bread in exchange for horses, and for the flocks, and for the cattle of the herds, and for the asses: and he fed them with bread for all their cattle for that year."
This verse is a part of the story of Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Joseph's story is one of the most well-known and impactful narratives in the Bible, as it demonstrates how God can use even the most difficult and trying circumstances to fulfill His purposes. This particular verse takes place during a time of famine in Egypt, and it highlights the wisdom and provision of Joseph as a ruler in Egypt.
The immediate context of this verse is Joseph's response to the famine that had struck the land. As the famine ravaged the region, Joseph, who had risen to a position of power and authority in Egypt, took measures to ensure the survival of the people. He implemented a system where the people could exchange their livestock for food, specifically bread. This exchange was a form of bartering, as the people were giving up their livestock, which they could no longer sustain due to the famine, in return for sustenance.
One of the themes in this verse is the providence of God. Throughout the story of Joseph, we see how God's hand was at work, guiding and directing the events in Joseph's life. From being sold into slavery by his brothers to rising to a position of power in Egypt, Joseph's life is a testament to God's faithfulness and provision. In this particular verse, we see how Joseph, under the guidance of God, was able to provide for the people during a time of crisis. It demonstrates God's care and provision for His people, even in the midst of hardship and scarcity.
Another theme present in this verse is the concept of stewardship. Joseph's actions exemplify wise and responsible stewardship of resources. Rather than hoarding the provisions for himself or his family, Joseph used his power and influence to ensure that the needs of the people were being met. This demonstrates a level of selflessness and compassion, as Joseph prioritized the well-being of others over personal gain. It serves as a reminder for us to be good stewards of the resources and blessings that God has given us, using them to bless others and honor Him.
The symbolism in this verse is also significant. Bread, as mentioned in the verse, is often used as a symbol of sustenance and provision. In the Bible, Jesus Himself used the imagery of bread to illustrate His role as the source of spiritual nourishment (John 6:35). In this verse, bread represents the basic necessity of sustenance, and Joseph's provision of bread in exchange for the people's livestock symbolizes his role as a provider and caregiver during a time of need.
In conclusion, Genesis 47:17 provides a glimpse of Joseph's wisdom and compassion, as well as God's providential care for His people. The verse serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness, the importance of stewardship, and the symbolism of provision and sustenance. It is a testament to the profound impact of God's sovereignty and the power of His servants to bring about His purposes.
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Genesis 47:17 Artwork
Genesis 47:17 - "And they brought their cattle unto Joseph: and Joseph gave them bread in exchange for horses, and for the flocks, and for the cattle of the herds, and for the asses: and he fed them with bread for all their cattle for that year."
"And they brought their cattle unto Joseph: and Joseph gave them bread in exchange for horses, and for the flocks, and for the cattle of the herds, and for the asses: and he fed them with bread for all their cattle for that year." - Genesis 47:17
Genesis 24-47
Genesis 31:47 - "And Laban called it Jegarsahadutha: but Jacob called it Galeed."
Genesis 41:47 - "And in the seven plenteous years the earth brought forth by handfuls."
Genesis 47:10 - "And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh."
Genesis 47:8 - "And Pharaoh said unto Jacob, How old art thou?"
Genesis 47:2 - "And he took some of his brethren, even five men, and presented them unto Pharaoh."
Genesis 47:12 - "And Joseph nourished his father, and his brethren, and all his father's household, with bread, according to their families."
Genesis 47:16 - "And Joseph said, Give your cattle; and I will give you for your cattle, if money fail."
Genesis 47:27 - "¶ And Israel dwelt in the land of Egypt, in the country of Goshen; and they had possessions therein, and grew, and multiplied exceedingly."
Genesis 47:7 - "And Joseph brought in Jacob his father, and set him before Pharaoh: and Jacob blessed Pharaoh."
Genesis 47:5 - "And Pharaoh spake unto Joseph, saying, Thy father and thy brethren are come unto thee:"
Ezekiel 47:17 - "And the border from the sea shall be Hazar-enan, the border of Damascus, and the north northward, and the border of Hamath. And this is the north side."
"And Laban called it Jegarsahadutha: but Jacob called it Galeed." - Genesis 31:47
Genesis 47:28 - "And Jacob lived in the land of Egypt seventeen years: so the whole age of Jacob was an hundred forty and seven years."
Genesis 47:21 - "And as for the people, he removed them to cities from one end of the borders of Egypt even to the other end thereof."
Genesis 47:13 - "¶ And there was no bread in all the land; for the famine was very sore, so that the land of Egypt and all the land of Canaan fainted by reason of the famine."
Genesis 47:31 - "And he said, Swear unto me. And he sware unto him. And Israel bowed himself upon the bed's head."
Genesis 47:25 - "And they said, Thou hast saved our lives: let us find grace in the sight of my lord, and we will be Pharaoh's servants."
1 Samuel 17:47 - "And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands."
"And in the seven plenteous years the earth brought forth by handfuls." - Genesis 41:47
Genesis 47:11 - "¶ And Joseph placed his father and his brethren, and gave them a possession in the land of Egypt, in the best of the land, in the land of Rameses, as Pharaoh had commanded."
Genesis 47:14 - "And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, for the corn which they bought: and Joseph brought the money into Pharaoh's house."
"And Jacob blessed Pharaoh, and went out from before Pharaoh." - Genesis 47:10
Genesis 47:3 - "And Pharaoh said unto his brethren, What is your occupation? And they said unto Pharaoh, Thy servants are shepherds, both we, and also our fathers."
Genesis 17-17
"And Pharaoh said unto Jacob, How old art thou?" - Genesis 47:8
Genesis 47:30 - "But I will lie with my fathers, and thou shalt carry me out of Egypt, and bury me in their buryingplace. And he said, I will do as thou hast said."
Genesis 47:23 - "Then Joseph said unto the people, Behold, I have bought you this day and your land for Pharaoh: lo, here is seed for you, and ye shall sow the land."