Genesis 40:14

KJV

But think on me when it shall be well with thee, and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house:

KJV (with Strong's)

But think {H2142} on me when it shall be well {H3190} with thee, and shew {H6213} kindness {H2617}, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention {H2142} of me unto Pharaoh {H6547}, and bring me {H3318} out of this house {H1004}:

Complete Jewish Bible

But remember me when it goes well with you; and show me kindness, please; and mention me to Pharaoh, so that he will release me from this prison.

Berean Standard Bible

But when it goes well for you, please remember me and show me kindness by mentioning me to Pharaoh, that he might bring me out of this prison.

American Standard Version

But have me in thy remembrance when it shall be well with thee, and show kindness, I pray thee, unto me, and make mention of me unto Pharaoh, and bring me out of this house:

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 40:14 captures Joseph's profound human desire for freedom and justice while unjustly imprisoned in Egypt. Following his God-given interpretation of the chief butler's dream, Joseph, with a blend of hope and vulnerability, makes a heartfelt plea for remembrance and intervention, trusting that the butler, once restored to Pharaoh's esteemed service, would advocate for his release from the confines of the prison house.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the larger narrative of [Joseph's journey from favored son to enslaved prisoner](/genesis/37-50 "The Story of Joseph in Genesis"). Specifically, it follows Joseph's unjust imprisonment in Egypt due to the false accusations of Potiphar's wife, as detailed in [Genesis 39:19-20](/genesis/39-19-20 "Joseph's imprisonment"). Despite his dire circumstances, Joseph maintains his integrity and demonstrates God-given wisdom, even gaining favor with the prison keeper. The immediate context of [Genesis 40](/genesis/40 "Genesis 40 - The Dreams of the Butler and Baker") focuses on Joseph's encounter with Pharaoh's chief butler and chief baker, who are also imprisoned. Both men have troubling dreams, and Joseph, acknowledging that "interpretations belong to God" ([Genesis 40:8](/genesis/40-8 "Joseph's declaration about dream interpretation")), accurately interprets their dreams, predicting the butler's restoration and the baker's execution within three days. It is immediately after delivering the hopeful interpretation to the butler that Joseph makes this poignant request.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egyptian prisons, often part of administrative or palace complexes, were not necessarily designed for long-term confinement but for holding individuals awaiting trial or punishment. Joseph's "house of the prison" ([Genesis 39:20](/genesis/39-20 "Joseph's imprisonment")) was likely a state prison, possibly even within the house of the captain of the guard, Potiphar. Dream interpretation was a highly valued skill in ancient Near Eastern cultures, particularly in Egypt, where dreams were believed to be divine messages. Pharaoh's court would have had official interpreters, but extraordinary or troubling dreams could prompt a wider search for insight, as seen later in [Genesis 41](/genesis/41 "Genesis 41 - Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dreams"). The concept of "kindness" or loyal love (Hebrew: _chesed_) was a deeply ingrained social and ethical value, implying a reciprocal obligation or a benevolent act stemming from a relationship or a sense of justice. Joseph's appeal, therefore, taps into a culturally understood expectation of gratitude and reciprocal action.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **divine sovereignty** working through human circumstances, even injustice. While Joseph makes a human appeal, the subsequent narrative reveals that his ultimate deliverance is orchestrated by God's perfect timing, not human reliability ([Genesis 40:23](/genesis/40-23 "The chief butler forgets Joseph") and [Genesis 41:1](/genesis/41-1 "Two full years pass")). The theme of **suffering and injustice** is prominent, as Joseph, an innocent man, endures prolonged hardship. His plea underscores the human yearning for **justice and freedom**. Furthermore, it subtly introduces the theme of **remembrance and forgetfulness**, contrasting the chief butler's initial lapse of memory with God's unfailing remembrance of His covenant and His plans for Joseph. Joseph's unwavering **hope** in the face of adversity, even as he seeks human aid, is also a significant theme.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
In Genesis 40:14, Joseph's plea to the chief butler is a deeply human expression of hope and desperation, revealing his longing for deliverance from his unjust confinement.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Think (Hebrew, _zâkar'_ H2142):** This verb, used twice in the verse ("think on me" and "make mention of me"), means more than a fleeting thought. It implies an active, mindful recollection that leads to action, often in the context of covenant or promise. Joseph is not merely asking the butler to recall his face, but to actively consider his plight and intervene on his behalf. This word carries a strong connotation of remembering to act, to fulfill an obligation, or to acknowledge a past relationship or favor.
* **Kindness (Hebrew, _chêçêd'_ H2617):** This rich Hebrew term is often translated as "steadfast love," "loyal kindness," "mercy," or "unfailing love." It denotes a deep, unwavering commitment or a benevolent act motivated by loyalty, compassion, or a covenantal faithfulness. Joseph is appealing to the butler's gratitude and sense of obligation, hoping for a compassionate act that extends beyond mere politeness, an act of true loyalty and benevolent concern.
* **Bring me out (Hebrew, _yâtsâ'_ H3318):** This primitive root means "to go (causatively, bring) out, in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively." In this context, it signifies Joseph's desperate desire for physical liberation from the "house" (prison). It is a direct and urgent request for the butler to facilitate his release, emphasizing the tangible outcome Joseph seeks from the butler's remembrance and kindness.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But think on me when it shall be well with thee,"**: Joseph's opening phrase is a direct appeal for the butler to remember him once he is restored to his former position. This highlights Joseph's keen observation and strategic thinking, as he identifies the opportune moment for his plea—when the butler is no longer in distress but in a position of influence and likely feeling grateful.
* **"and shew kindness, I pray thee, unto me,"**: This is a profound request for _chesed_, a loyal and compassionate act. Joseph appeals to the butler's sense of moral obligation or gratitude, hoping for an act of benevolence that stems from a deeper sense of care or indebtedness, rather than a casual favor.
* **"and make mention of me unto Pharaoh,"**: This specifies the concrete action Joseph desires. He wants the butler to speak to Pharaoh about his case, presumably to explain his innocence and the injustice he has suffered. This indicates Joseph's belief that his situation is rectifiable through proper channels, if only someone would speak on his behalf.
* **"and bring me out of this house:"**: This final clause articulates the ultimate goal of Joseph's plea: physical liberation from the prison. The "house" refers to the specific place of his confinement, emphasizing his desperate longing to be physically removed from his unjust imprisonment and restored to freedom.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. **Pathos** is evident in Joseph's heartfelt and vulnerable plea, eliciting sympathy for his unjust plight. The phrase "I pray thee" underscores his desperation and humility in seeking help. There is also a subtle **irony** at play, as Joseph places his hope in human memory and kindness, only for the narrative to immediately reveal the chief butler's forgetfulness ([Genesis 40:23](/genesis/40-23 "The chief butler forgets Joseph")), setting up a dramatic contrast with God's unfailing remembrance and ultimate intervention. The entire scene serves as **foreshadowing**, hinting at the future reversal of Joseph's fortunes and his eventual elevation, which will be brought about not by human machinations but by divine providence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joseph's plea in Genesis 40:14 beautifully illustrates the tension between human agency and divine sovereignty. While Joseph, in his human capacity, seeks a practical solution to his unjust imprisonment through an appeal to a man of influence, the broader narrative powerfully demonstrates that his ultimate deliverance and elevation came not through human memory or political maneuvering, but through God's perfect timing and sovereign plan. This highlights that faithful individuals may, and often should, seek human assistance in times of need, yet their ultimate trust must rest in God's unfailing faithfulness, which transcends human fallibility and forgetfulness. Joseph's experience underscores that God's purposes often unfold through unexpected delays and human failures, ultimately revealing His perfect wisdom and control over all circumstances, even those marked by deep injustice.

* [Genesis 41:14](/genesis/41-14 "Pharaoh sends for Joseph") - Joseph's release comes not from the butler's immediate remembrance, but when Pharaoh needs a dream interpreter, two years later.
* [Psalm 105:19-20](/psalms/105-19-20 "God's timing for Joseph's release") - This psalm reflects on God's perfect timing in Joseph's life, emphasizing that "the word of the Lord proved him" until His time came.
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God works all things for good") - This New Testament verse affirms that "in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose," a truth profoundly exemplified in Joseph's prolonged suffering and eventual exaltation.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joseph's poignant plea in Genesis 40:14 resonates deeply with the human experience of longing for relief from suffering and injustice. It reminds us that even individuals of profound faith, like Joseph, are not immune to hardship, false accusations, or the pain of being forgotten. It is natural and human to seek help, to appeal to others, and to hope for deliverance through tangible means. However, the subsequent narrative, where the chief butler forgets Joseph for two long years, serves as a powerful yet comforting reminder: while we may place our hopes in human promises and efforts, our ultimate trust must be placed in God's perfect timing and unwavering faithfulness. He never forgets His own, and His plans will ultimately prevail, often through unexpected means and at the precise moment of His choosing, as seen in Joseph's eventual rise to power and his role in preserving many lives ([Genesis 41:40-41](/genesis/41-40-41 "Joseph's elevation to second in command")). We are called to pray, to act with integrity, and to hope, but always to rest in God's sovereign care, knowing that His remembrance is eternal and His deliverance is sure.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Joseph's human plea for help in this verse balance with his evident trust in God throughout his trials?**
* **In what ways might we be tempted to rely solely on human efforts or connections, forgetting God's ultimate sovereignty in our own difficult circumstances?**
* **How does the chief butler's forgetfulness challenge or affirm our understanding of God's timing and faithfulness?**

### FAQ
**Why did the chief butler forget Joseph, despite his accurate interpretation?**

Answer: The biblical text explicitly states that the chief butler "did not remember Joseph, but forgot him" ([Genesis 40:23](/genesis/40-23 "The chief butler forgets Joseph")). This forgetfulness highlights the inherent fallibility and self-interest of human nature. Once restored to his comfortable and influential position in Pharaoh's court, the butler likely became preoccupied with his duties and perhaps saw no immediate benefit or even a potential risk in mentioning a prisoner, especially one accused of a serious crime. The narrative emphasizes that it was not until Pharaoh himself had troubling dreams two years later that the butler finally remembered Joseph ([Genesis 41:9-13](/genesis/41-9-13 "The chief butler remembers Joseph")), underscoring that Joseph's release was ultimately orchestrated by God's perfect timing and divine providence, rather than by human reliability or gratitude.

**Does Joseph's plea for help indicate a lack of faith in God's plan?**

Answer: Not at all. Joseph's request to the butler is a natural and understandable human response to an unjust and prolonged imprisonment. Throughout his trials, Joseph consistently demonstrates profound faith and integrity, acknowledging God as the source of his wisdom in interpreting dreams ([Genesis 40:8](/genesis/40-8 "Joseph's declaration about dream interpretation")). His plea for human intervention does not negate his faith but rather shows that faith does not preclude seeking practical solutions or help from others. It is a testament to his human hope and desire for freedom within the framework of God's overarching plan. The subsequent events, where the butler forgets him then remembers him at God's appointed time, serve to highlight that God's sovereign plan transcends human efforts and failures, ultimately bringing about His perfect will.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph's unjust suffering, his innocent imprisonment, and his poignant plea for remembrance from one who was restored to power, all profoundly prefigure the person and work of Jesus Christ. Like Joseph, Jesus was innocent yet suffered unjustly, betrayed and delivered into the hands of His enemies, enduring a profound sense of abandonment and being "forgotten" by many, even by His disciples at times. Yet, in His suffering, He cried out to His Father, embodying a perfect trust. Just as Joseph was exalted from the prison to save many lives from famine, Christ, after His death and resurrection, was exalted to the right hand of God ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Christ's exaltation")), becoming the ultimate deliverer and the bread of life ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "Jesus, the bread of life")) who provides spiritual sustenance and eternal salvation for all who believe. Joseph's plea for _chesed_ (kindness or loyal love) finds its ultimate and perfect fulfillment in Christ, who perfectly embodies God's unfailing _chesed_ towards humanity, remembering us in our fallen state, interceding for us before the Father ([Romans 8:34](/romans/8-34 "Christ's intercession")), and ensuring our ultimate deliverance and eternal freedom from the prison of sin and death.

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

Joshua 2:12

Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the LORD, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father's house, and give me a true token:

1 Samuel 20:14

And thou shalt not only while yet I live shew me the kindness of the LORD, that I die not:

1 Samuel 20:15

But [also] thou shalt not cut off thy kindness from my house for ever: no, not when the LORD hath cut off the enemies of David every one from the face of the earth.

Luke 23:42

And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom.

1 Kings 2:7

But shew kindness unto the sons of Barzillai the Gileadite, and let them be of those that eat at thy table: for so they came to me when I fled because of Absalom thy brother.

2 Samuel 9:1

¶ And David said, Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may shew him kindness for Jonathan's sake?

1 Samuel 25:31

That this shall be no grief unto thee, nor offence of heart unto my lord, either that thou hast shed blood causeless, or that my lord hath avenged himself: but when the LORD shall have dealt well with my lord, then remember thine handmaid.