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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Genesis 40:5–19. His two-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Observe, I. The special providence of God, which filled the heads of these two prisoners with unusual dreams, such as made extraordinary impressions upon them, and carried with them evidences of a divine origin, both in one night. Note, God has immediate access to the spirits of men, which he can make serviceable to his own purposes whenever he pleases, quite beyond the intention of those concerned. To him all hearts are open, and anciently he spoke not only to his own people, but to others, in dreams, Job 33:15. Things to come were thus foretold, but very obscurely.
II.The impression which was made upon these prisoners by their dreams (Gen 40:6):
They were sad. It was not the prison that made them sad (they were pretty well used to that, and perhaps lived jovially there), but the dream. Note, God has more ways than one to sadden the spirits of those that are to be made sad. Those sinners that are hardy enough under outward troubles, and will not yield to them, yet God can find out a way to punish; he can take off their wheels, by wounding their spirits, and laying loads upon them.
III.Joseph's great tenderness and compassion towards them.
He enquired with concern, Wherefore look you so sadly today? Gen 40:7. Joseph was their keeper, and in that office he was mild. Note, It becomes us to take cognizance of the sorrows even of those that are under our check. Joseph was their companion in tribulation, he was now a prisoner with them, and had been a dreamer too. Note, Communion in sufferings helps to work compassion towards those that do suffer. Let us learn hence,
1.To concern ourselves in the sorrows and troubles of others, and to enquire into the reason of the sadness of our brethren's countenances; we should be often considering the tears of the oppressed, Ecc 4:1. It is some relief to those that are in trouble to be taken notice of.
2.To enquire into the causes of our own sorrow, "Wherefore do I look so sadly? Is there a reason? Is it a good reason? Is there not a reason for comfort sufficient to balance it, whatever it is? Why art thou cast down, O my soul?"
IV.The dreams themselves, and the interpretation of them.
That which troubled these prisoners was that being confined they could not have recourse to the diviners of Egypt who pretended to interpret dreams: There is no interpreter here in the prison, Gen 40:8. Note, There are interpreters which those that are in prison and sorrow should wish to have with them, to instruct them in the meaning and design of Providence (Elihu alludes to such, when he says, If there be an interpreter, one among a thousand, to show unto man his uprightness, Job 33:23, Job 33:24), interpreters to guide their consciences, not to satisfy their curiosity. Joseph hereupon directed them which way to look: Do not interpretations belong to God? He means the God whom he worshipped, to the knowledge of whom he endeavours hereby to lead them. Note, It is God's prerogative to foretel things to come, Isa 46:10. He must therefore have the praise of all the gifts of foresight which men have, ordinary or extraordinary. Joseph premises a caveat against his own praise, and is careful to transmit the glory to God, as Daniel, Dan 2:30. Joseph suggests, "If interpretations belong to God, he is a free agent, and may communicate the power to whom he pleases, and therefore tell me your dreams." Now,
1.The chief butler's dream was a happy presage of his enlargement, and re-advancement, within three days; and so Joseph explained it to him, Gen 40:12, Gen 40:13. Probably it had been usual with him to press the full-ripe grapes immediately into Pharaoh's cup, the simplicity of that age not being acquainted with the modern arts of making the wine fine. Observe, Joseph foretold the chief butler's deliverance, but he did not foresee his own. He had long before dreamt of his own honour, and the obeisance which his brethren should do to him, with the remembrance of which he must now support himself, without any new or fresh discoveries. The visions that are for the comfort of God's saints are for a great while to come, and relate to things that are very far off, while the foresights of others, like this recorded there, look but three days before them.
2.The chief baker's dream portended his ignominious death, Gen 40:18, Gen 40:19. The happy interpretation of the other's dream encouraged him to relate his. Thus hypocrites, when they hear good things promised to good Christians, would put in for a share, though they have no part nor lot in the matter. It was not Joseph's fault that he brought him no better tidings. Ministers are but interpreters, they cannot make the thing otherwise than it is; if therefore they deal faithfully, and their message prove unpleasing, it is not their fault. Bad dreams cannot expect a good interpretation.
V.The improvement Joseph made of this opportunity to get a friend at court, Gen 40:14, Gen 40:15.
He modestly bespoke the favour of the chief butler, whose preferment he foretold: But think of me when it shall be well with thee. Though the respect paid to Joseph made the prison as easy to him as a prison could be, yet none can blame him for being desirous of liberty. See here,
1.What a modest representation he makes of his own case, Gen 40:15. He does not reflect upon his brethren that sold him; he only says, I was stolen out of the land of the Hebrews, that is, unjustly sent thence, no matter where the fault was. Nor does he reflect on the wrong done him in this imprisonment by his mistress that was his prosecutrix, and his master that was his judge; but mildly avers his own innocence: Here have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon. Note, When we are called to vindicate ourselves we should carefully avoid, as much as may be, speaking ill of others. Let us be content to prove ourselves innocent, and not be fond of upbraiding others with their guilt.
2.What a modest request he makes to the chief butler: "Only, think of me. Pray do me a kindness, if it lie in your way." And his particular petition is, Bring me out of this house. He does not say, "Bring me into Pharaoh's house, get me a place at court." No, he begs for enlargement, not preferment. Note, Providence sometimes designs the greatest honours for those that least covet or expect them.
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Summary
Genesis 40:5 meticulously details the simultaneous, divinely orchestrated dreams experienced by Pharaoh's chief butler and chief baker while imprisoned alongside Joseph. This pivotal verse not only establishes the immediate context for Joseph to exercise his God-given gift of dream interpretation but also serves as a crucial, providential step in God's overarching plan to elevate Joseph from the depths of unjust incarceration to a position of immense influence within Egypt, ultimately for the salvation of His chosen people.
Context
Literary Context
Genesis 40:5 is situated immediately after Joseph's unjust imprisonment in the house of the captain of the guard, Potiphar, due to the false accusations of Potiphar's wife (Genesis 39:20). Despite his dire circumstances, Joseph had found favor with the prison keeper, indicating God's continued presence with him (Genesis 39:21-23). The arrival of Pharaoh's chief butler and chief baker into the same prison is not a random occurrence but a divinely orchestrated event, setting the stage for Joseph's unique gift of dream interpretation to be recognized. This verse specifically highlights that both men dreamed on the same night, and crucially, "each man according to the interpretation of his dream," signaling that their visions were distinct and carried specific, personal meanings that would soon require elucidation, thus preparing the narrative for Joseph's intervention.
Historical & Cultural Context
In the ancient Near East, particularly in Egypt, dreams were often considered significant vehicles for divine communication, omens, or prophecies. Pharaohs and other rulers frequently employed dream interpreters or wise men to discern the meaning of their nocturnal visions, as seen later with Pharaoh's own dreams in Genesis 41. The chief butler (cupbearer) and chief baker were highly trusted and influential officials in the royal court, responsible for the king's food and drink, making their positions critical for the king's safety and well-being. Their imprisonment, therefore, would have been a matter of grave concern, indicating a serious offense against Pharaoh. Their high status ensures that their eventual release, and the memory of Joseph's interpretive gift, will bring Joseph directly into Pharaoh's presence, a necessary step for his ultimate elevation.
Key Themes
This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Joseph narrative and the book of Genesis. Foremost is the theme of Divine Providence, demonstrating God's sovereign hand at work even in seemingly random or unjust circumstances, orchestrating events to fulfill His ultimate purposes. The dreams themselves underscore the theme of Divine Communication, where God actively intervenes in human affairs through supernatural means to reveal His will and future plans, a pattern seen throughout the patriarchal narratives (e.g., Genesis 15:12-16). Furthermore, the verse highlights Joseph's Preparation and Testing, as his time in prison, including this encounter, serves as a crucial period of refinement and positioning for the immense responsibilities he would soon undertake as a leader in Egypt, illustrating how God uses adversity to shape His chosen instruments.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
This primitive root (H2492) primarily means "to bind firmly," but by implication, "to be plump" or "to recover." Crucially, through a figurative sense of "dumbness" or being bound in sleep, it also means "to dream." In this context, it signifies the act of experiencing a dream, emphasizing that these were not mere thoughts but actual, impactful nocturnal visions.
Derived from the verb châlam, this noun (H2472) refers specifically to a "dream" or "dreamer." The repetition of the verb and noun ("dreamed a dream") is a cognate accusative construction, a common Hebrew idiom used for emphasis, underscoring the reality, significance, and divine origin of these particular dreams, distinguishing them from ordinary sleep fantasies.
This noun (H6623) comes from a root meaning "to open" or "to explain." It specifically refers to the "interpretation" or "explanation" of a dream. Its inclusion here is critical, as it immediately signals that the dreams possess inherent meaning that is not self-evident to the dreamers, thus necessitating a divine revelation or a divinely gifted interpreter like Joseph.
Verse Breakdown
"And they dreamed a dream both of them"
This opening phrase immediately establishes the central event: two individuals, the butler and the baker, simultaneously experienced significant dreams. The Hebrew idiom "dreamed a dream" (cognate accusative) emphasizes the profound and intentional nature of these visions, signaling that they were not random but divinely purposed.
"each man his dream in one night"
This clause highlights two crucial details. First, "each man his dream" underscores the individual and distinct nature of the revelations given to the butler and the baker, preparing the reader for two separate interpretations. Second, "in one night" emphasizes the simultaneous occurrence, suggesting a coordinated divine action rather than mere coincidence.
"each man according to the interpretation of his dream"
This phrase is highly significant. It implies that the dreams inherently possessed a specific meaning or "interpretation" that was unique to each dreamer. This detail immediately points to the necessity of an interpreter, setting the stage for Joseph's God-given role and gift. The dreams were not self-explanatory but required divine insight to be understood.
"the butler and the baker of the king of Egypt, which [were] bound in the prison"
This final clause identifies the high-ranking status of the dreamers and their current predicament. Their titles ("butler" and "baker" of the king) signify their proximity to Pharaoh and their importance in the royal court, making their imprisonment a matter of significant consequence. Their presence in the same prison as Joseph is a key element of God's providential plan, bringing the necessary parties together for the next stage of Joseph's journey.
Literary Devices
Genesis 40:5 employs several literary devices to enhance its narrative and thematic impact. The most prominent is Cognate Accusative, seen in the phrase "dreamed a dream" (Hebrew: chalam chalom). This grammatical construction, where a verb is paired with a noun from the same root, is used for emphasis, underscoring the profound and divinely significant nature of these dreams, distinguishing them from ordinary nocturnal thoughts. The verse also utilizes Foreshadowing, subtly hinting at the crucial role Joseph will play. The mention that "each man" dreamed "according to the interpretation of his dream" immediately creates a narrative tension and anticipation for the arrival of an interpreter, which the reader knows to be Joseph. Furthermore, there is an element of Divine Irony at play; Joseph's unjust imprisonment, a situation of profound suffering and limitation, becomes the very setting where God orchestrates the next step in his elevation, transforming a place of confinement into a platform for divine revelation and advancement. This highlights the overarching theme of Providence, where God's unseen hand guides events, even seemingly negative ones, toward His ultimate redemptive purposes.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Genesis 40:5 serves as a powerful testament to God's meticulous and unwavering sovereignty, even amidst human injustice and suffering. Joseph's imprisonment, a profound and undeserved hardship, becomes the very crucible through which God advances His grand design, not only for Joseph's personal elevation but ultimately for the preservation of His covenant people. This verse underscores that God's purposes are not thwarted by adverse circumstances; rather, He actively uses them as instruments in His providential plan. The dreams themselves re-emphasize the biblical theme of divine communication, particularly in the Old Testament, where God frequently used dreams as a direct means to reveal His will, impart warnings, or disclose future events to His chosen servants and even to pagan rulers. This divine initiative prepares the way for Joseph to exercise his God-given spiritual gift of dream interpretation, highlighting that such gifts are bestowed by God for His specific purposes and are often revealed and utilized in unexpected, even challenging, contexts.
Reflection and Application
Genesis 40:5 offers a profound and enduring message of hope and trust in God's sovereign plan, even when our own lives feel confined, unjust, or forgotten. Joseph, languishing in a prison he did not deserve, could have easily succumbed to despair. Yet, God's providence brought specific individuals and circumstances into his path, providing the very opportunity for his unique gifts to shine. This verse serves as a powerful reminder that our current circumstances, no matter how challenging or restrictive, are never outside of God's watchful eye or His overarching plan. It encourages us to cultivate an unwavering faith in God's perfect timing and His ability to orchestrate events for our good and His glory. We are called to remain faithful and observant, recognizing that divine appointments and opportunities for service can emerge from the most unlikely and unappealing places. Our trials are often not hindrances but rather integral parts of God's preparation, refining our character and positioning us for future responsibilities and the unfolding of His purposes through our lives.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why were the butler and baker imprisoned?
The biblical text does not explicitly state the specific offenses that led to the imprisonment of Pharaoh's chief butler and chief baker. Genesis 40:1 merely states, "that these things happened after these things, that the butler of the king of Egypt and the baker offended their lord the king of Egypt." This suggests they committed some transgression against Pharaoh, serious enough to warrant their incarceration in the same royal prison where Joseph was held. Given their high-ranking positions, their offenses were likely significant, perhaps involving a breach of trust, negligence, or a perceived threat to the king's life or authority.
What is the significance of the phrase "dreamed a dream"?
The phrase "dreamed a dream" (Hebrew: chalam chalom) is a common idiomatic expression in the Bible, known as a cognate accusative construction, where a verb is followed by a noun from the same root. This linguistic device is used for emphasis. It highlights the importance and reality of the dreams, signifying that these were not just ordinary, fleeting sleep fantasies, but divinely significant visions that carried a specific message or prophecy. It underscores that God was actively communicating through these dreams, setting them apart as purposeful and requiring interpretation.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Joseph's journey, marked by unjust suffering, betrayal, and imprisonment, yet culminating in his exaltation to a position of saving power, serves as a profound type of Jesus Christ. Like Joseph, who was unjustly condemned and cast into a pit, Jesus was rejected by His own people and suffered an undeserved death on the cross. Yet, God sovereignly used Joseph's suffering and imprisonment, bringing him into contact with the butler and baker, as a crucial step in His plan to elevate Joseph. This elevation ultimately enabled Joseph to provide salvation and sustenance for many, including his own family, during a devastating famine. Similarly, Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection led to His ultimate exaltation, enabling Him to provide spiritual salvation and eternal life for all who believe, becoming the true "bread of life" (John 6:35). Joseph's unique ability to interpret dreams and reveal hidden truths also points to Christ as the ultimate revealer of God's will and the one who perfectly interprets the mysteries of God's kingdom (John 1:18). Through Christ, the seemingly random or chaotic events of life are imbued with divine meaning and purpose, leading to ultimate redemption and the fulfillment of God's eternal plan. His journey from the prison to the palace foreshadows the path of the Suffering Servant who was "pierced for our transgressions" but "by his knowledge my righteous servant will justify many" (Isaiah 53:5).