Genesis 40:13

KJV

Yet within three days shall Pharaoh lift up thine head, and restore thee unto thy place: and thou shalt deliver Pharaoh's cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his butler.

KJV (with Strong's)

Yet {H5750} within three {H7969} days {H3117} shall Pharaoh {H6547} lift up {H5375} thine head {H7218}, and restore {H7725} thee unto thy place {H3653}: and thou shalt deliver {H5414} Pharaoh's {H6547} cup {H3563} into his hand {H3027}, after the former {H7223} manner {H4941} when thou wast his butler {H8248}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Within three days Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore you to your office: you will be giving Pharaoh his cup as you used to when you were his cupbearer.

Berean Standard Bible

Within three days Pharaoh will lift up your head and restore your position. You will put Pharaoh’s cup in his hand, just as you did when you were his cupbearer.

American Standard Version

within yet three days shall Pharaoh lift up thy head, and restore thee unto thine office: and thou shalt give Pharaoh’s cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his butler.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 40:13 records Joseph's divinely granted interpretation of the chief butler's dream, a prophecy of his imminent and complete restoration to Pharaoh's service. This precise revelation, foretelling his reinstatement within three days to his former privileged position of delivering Pharaoh's cup, stands in stark contrast to the chief baker's grim fate and powerfully demonstrates God's sovereign hand at work through Joseph, even in the confines of an Egyptian prison.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is a crucial turning point within the broader narrative of Joseph's journey from favored son to enslaved exile, and then to imprisoned servant. Following his unjust imprisonment on false charges by Potiphar's wife, Joseph is placed in charge of other prisoners, including Pharaoh's chief butler and chief baker. Both officials have disturbing dreams, and Joseph, recognizing their distress, humbly attributes the ability to interpret dreams to God (cf. [Genesis 40:8](/genesis/40-8 "Joseph Attributes Dream Interpretation to God")). The chief butler recounts his dream of a vine with three branches, blossoming and bearing ripe grapes, which he then presses into Pharaoh's cup. Joseph's interpretation in [Genesis 40:9-11](/genesis/40-9-11 "The Chief Butler's Dream") and the subsequent prophecy in verse 13 directly respond to this specific dream, setting the stage for the dramatic fulfillment that will eventually lead to Joseph's own elevation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Egypt, dreams were often considered a significant means of divine communication, and their interpretation was a specialized skill, often practiced by priests or wise men. Pharaoh's court, like others in the ancient Near East, relied on such interpretations for guidance. The role of a chief butler (or cupbearer) was one of immense trust and proximity to the king. Cupbearers were responsible for ensuring the king's drink was safe from poison, and their constant presence near the monarch made them highly influential figures, privy to royal secrets and affairs. Their "place" was one of honor and critical importance, making the promise of restoration to such a position a profound vindication. The specific mention of "three days" was not uncommon in ancient prophecies, lending a sense of immediate and precise divine intervention.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 40:13 significantly contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis and Joseph's narrative. Firstly, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Providence and Sovereignty**, demonstrating that God is actively orchestrating events, even in the midst of human injustice and suffering, to fulfill His ultimate purposes. Joseph's ability to interpret dreams underscores the theme of **Divine Revelation**, highlighting God's chosen method of communicating His will and future plans. Furthermore, the verse emphasizes **God's Faithfulness to Joseph**, honoring his integrity and gifts even in prison, and setting the stage for the eventual **Reversal of Fortunes**, a recurring motif in Joseph's life where adversity is transformed into triumph and exaltation, as seen later in [Genesis 41](/genesis/41 "Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dreams and is Exalted").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 40:13 encapsulates Joseph's accurate and hopeful prophecy for the chief butler, demonstrating his God-given gift of dream interpretation and the precise nature of divine revelation. The verse is rich in specific details concerning the timing and the nature of the butler's restoration.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **days (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** (H3117) This word, meaning "a day" (as the warm hours), whether literal or figurative, is used here with precise numerical qualification ("three days"). Its usage emphasizes the exact and imminent nature of the prophecy's fulfillment, underscoring the divine precision of Joseph's interpretation. The promptness of the event would serve to validate Joseph's prophetic gift.
* **lift up (Hebrew, _nâsâʼ'_):** (H5375) A versatile primitive root meaning "to lift," "to bear," or "to carry." In the idiom "lift up thine head" (נָשָׂא רֹאשׁ), it signifies elevation, promotion, or vindication. This positive sense for the butler stands in stark contrast to its application for the chief baker, where it implies "lifting off" the head in execution, highlighting the dual potential of the same phrase based on context.
* **hand (Hebrew, _yâd'_):** (H3027) This primitive word refers to "a hand" (the open one), often used figuratively for power, means, or direction. In the phrase "into his hand," it signifies the act of delivering the cup directly to Pharaoh, emphasizing the restoration of the butler's personal service, trust, and proximity to the monarch—a position of significant influence and responsibility.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Yet within three days shall Pharaoh lift up thine head,"**: This opening clause establishes the precise timeline and the nature of the immediate divine intervention. The "three days" signify not only immediacy but also a specific, divinely appointed period. "Lift up thine head" is a Hebrew idiom (*nasa rosh*) that, in this context, means to elevate, honor, or restore to a position of dignity and favor, rather than a literal decapitation. It signifies Pharaoh's positive judgment and vindication of the butler.
* **"and restore thee unto thy place:"**: This phrase explicitly states the full and complete nature of the butler's reinstatement. He would not merely be released from prison but returned to his former, privileged, and influential position within Pharaoh's royal court. This speaks to the theme of divine reversal of fortunes and the turning of adversity into triumph.
* **"and thou shalt deliver Pharaoh's cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his butler."**: This concluding detail underscores the completeness of the restoration. The butler would resume his specific, intimate, and highly trusted duties of serving Pharaoh directly. The phrase "after the former manner" emphasizes that his return to service would be exactly as it was before his imprisonment, signifying a full restoration of trust, responsibility, and honor.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. The most prominent is the **Idiom** "lift up thine head" (*nasa rosh*). This phrase is a powerful example of **Double Entendre** or **Ambiguity**, as it carries two distinct and opposing meanings within the same chapter: restoration and execution. Joseph's interpretation clarifies which meaning applies to each individual, demonstrating his divine insight. The specific mention of "three days" can be seen as **Symbolism**, often signifying divine completion or a pivotal moment in biblical narratives, here emphasizing the precision and divine origin of the prophecy. The entire prophecy acts as **Foreshadowing**, not only of the butler's restoration but also of Joseph's own eventual rise to power, which hinges on the butler remembering him, thereby setting in motion the events that will lead to Joseph's exaltation and the preservation of his family.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 40:13 serves as a powerful testament to God's active involvement in human affairs, even in the most mundane or unjust circumstances. It highlights that God's plan unfolds with meticulous timing and precision, often using unexpected means and individuals to achieve His purposes. Joseph's accurate interpretation not only validated his prophetic gift but also served as a crucial, albeit delayed, step in God's grand providential design for Joseph and, ultimately, for the nation of Israel, ensuring their survival and growth. This passage reminds us that God's sovereignty extends over all events, turning what seems like misfortune into opportunities for His glory and the advancement of His kingdom.

* [Genesis 41:25-32](/genesis/41-25-32 "Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dreams")
* [Psalm 105:16-22](/psalm/105-16-22 "God's Providence in Joseph's Life")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 40:13 offers profound encouragement for believers navigating periods of waiting, injustice, or feeling forgotten. Joseph's unwavering faithfulness, even in the confines of a prison and despite being unjustly accused, illustrates that our gifts and character can be used by God in unexpected places and times. This verse is a powerful reminder that God's intricate providence is always at work, orchestrating seemingly small interactions and events to contribute to a grander divine plan. The accuracy of Joseph's interpretation not only brought hope to the butler but also served as a powerful testimony to God's sovereignty and Joseph's unique calling, paving the way for the incredible events that would soon follow in his life, ultimately leading to the preservation of his family and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises. We are called to trust in God's timing, remain faithful in our present circumstances, and recognize that even our suffering can be part of His redemptive narrative.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Joseph's faithfulness in prison, even when seemingly forgotten, challenge my perspective on using my gifts in difficult or unrewarding circumstances?**
* **In what areas of my life am I currently waiting for God's "three days" of restoration or vindication, and how can I trust in His precise timing?**
* **How does the theme of divine providence in this passage encourage me when I face injustice or feel that my circumstances are beyond my control?**

### FAQ

**What does the phrase "lift up thine head" mean in this context?**

Answer: The Hebrew idiom *nasa rosh* (נָשָׂא רֹאשׁ), translated as "lift up thine head," carries a dual meaning within this narrative. In the context of the chief butler, Joseph uses it to signify restoration, vindication, and promotion to a position of honor and dignity. It means Pharaoh will "lift up" his head in a positive sense, restoring him to his former status and favor. This stands in stark contrast to the same idiom used for the chief baker in [Genesis 40:19](/genesis/40-19 "Joseph's Prophecy to the Baker"), where it implies "lifting off" his head, referring to execution.

**Why is the specific timeframe of "within three days" significant?**

Answer: The mention of "within three days" is highly significant because it highlights the divine precision and immediacy of Joseph's prophecy. This exact timing served to authenticate Joseph's God-given gift of dream interpretation, building credibility for his future prophecies, especially those concerning Pharaoh's own dreams in [Genesis 41](/genesis/41 "Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dreams"). It also demonstrates God's active involvement and meticulous orchestration of events in the lives of individuals, working according to His perfect timetable.

**How did Joseph know the interpretation of the dreams?**

Answer: Joseph explicitly states in [Genesis 40:8](/genesis/40-8 "God as the Source of Dream Interpretation") that "Do not interpretations belong to God?" This declaration clarifies that his ability to interpret dreams was not a personal skill or wisdom but a direct, divine gift from God. He was merely the vessel through whom God chose to reveal His plans and purposes, underscoring God's sovereignty and His capacity to communicate with humanity through various means.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Joseph, particularly his unjust suffering, imprisonment, and ultimate exaltation, serves as a profound **type** of Christ. Just as Joseph was "lifted up" from the pit and prison to a position of supreme authority in Egypt, becoming a savior to his people and the surrounding nations (cf. [Genesis 41:40-41](/genesis/41-40-41 "Joseph's Exaltation")), so too was Christ "lifted up" on the cross, enduring immense suffering and death (cf. [John 3:14](/john/3-14 "Jesus Must Be Lifted Up")). Yet, through His "lifting up" in crucifixion, Jesus secured humanity's spiritual restoration and reconciliation to God, being subsequently resurrected and exalted to the right hand of God (cf. [Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Jesus Exalted to God's Right Hand") and [Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Christ's Exaltation")). He delivers us from the bondage of sin and death, restoring us to our rightful place as children of God (cf. [Romans 8:15](/romans/8-15 "Spirit of Adoption")), fulfilling a far greater and eternal purpose than the butler's physical restoration to Pharaoh's service.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

2 Kings 25:27

And it came to pass in the seven and thirtieth year of the captivity of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the twelfth month, on the seven and twentieth [day] of the month, [that] Evilmerodach king of Babylon in the year that he began to reign did lift up the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah out of prison;

Psalms 3:3

But thou, O LORD, [art] a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.

Jeremiah 52:31

¶ And it came to pass in the seven and thirtieth year of the captivity of Jehoiachin king of Judah, in the twelfth month, in the five and twentieth [day] of the month, [that] Evilmerodach king of Babylon in the [first] year of his reign lifted up the head of Jehoiachin king of Judah, and brought him forth out of prison,

Genesis 40:19

Yet within three days shall Pharaoh lift up thy head from off thee, and shall hang thee on a tree; and the birds shall eat thy flesh from off thee.

Genesis 40:22

But he hanged the chief baker: as Joseph had interpreted to them.

Genesis 7:4

For yet seven days, and I will cause it to rain upon the earth forty days and forty nights; and every living substance that I have made will I destroy from off the face of the earth.