Genesis 41:34

Translation
King James Version
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint officers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years.
Ask
KJV (with Strong's)
Let Pharaoh H6547 do H6213 this, and let him appoint H6485 officers H6496 over the land H776, and take up the fifth part H2567 of the land H776 of Egypt H4714 in the seven H7651 plenteous H7647 years H8141.
Ask
Complete Jewish Bible
Pharaoh should do this, and he should appoint supervisors over the land to receive a twenty percent tax on the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.
Ask
Berean Standard Bible
Let Pharaoh take action and appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance.
Ask
American Standard Version
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years.
Ask
World English Bible Messianic
Let Pharaoh do this, and let him appoint overseers over the land, and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt’s produce in the seven plenteous years.
Ask
Geneva Bible (1599)
Let Pharaoh make and appoynt officers ouer the lande, and take vp the fift part of the land of Egypt in the seuen plenteous yeeres.
Ask
Young's Literal Translation
let Pharaoh make and appoint overseers over the land, and receive a fifth of the land of Egypt in the seven years of plenty,
Ask
See also
Proverbs 22:3Numbers 31:14Proverbs 6:6Proverbs 6:8Job 5:20Luke 16:5Psalms 33:19
See on the biblical-era map
All Genesis Sites (Canaan)
All Genesis Sites (Canaan) View full PDF
All Genesis Sites (Middle East)
All Genesis Sites (Middle East) View full PDF
Genesis 41:1-36, Exodus 10:1-20, Exodus 25:23-29
Genesis 41:1-36, Exodus 10:1-20, Exodus 25:23-29 View full PDF

Map © Biblica Open Bible Maps · CC BY-SA 4.0

In the KJVVerse 1,230 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Genesis 41:34 captures a critical moment in Joseph's divinely inspired counsel to Pharaoh, laying out a precise and strategic economic plan for Egypt's survival. Following his accurate interpretation of Pharaoh's prophetic dreams, Joseph advises the immediate appointment of capable administrators and the systematic collection of a significant portion of the harvest during the seven years of unprecedented abundance, thereby establishing a national reserve to mitigate the devastating impact of the impending famine. This verse underscores the importance of proactive foresight and diligent resource management in the face of future uncertainty.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is an integral part of Joseph's comprehensive response to Pharaoh's unsettling dreams, which depicted seven fat cows devoured by seven lean cows, and seven full ears of grain consumed by seven thin, scorched ears. Having just revealed the dreams' meaning—seven years of abundant harvest followed by seven years of severe famine (as detailed in Genesis 41:25-32)—Joseph immediately transitions from interpretation to practical, divinely guided counsel. Genesis 41:33 first suggests appointing a "discerning and wise man" to oversee the land. Genesis 41:34 then elaborates on the specific actions this appointed leader should undertake, detailing the precise economic policy for national preparedness. This progression highlights Joseph's unique role not just as an interpreter of divine revelation but as a providentially gifted strategist.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: Ancient Egypt was an agrarian society heavily reliant on the annual inundation of the Nile River for its agricultural prosperity. Fluctuations in the Nile's flood levels directly impacted crop yields, making the threat of famine a constant concern. Pharaoh, as the divine king, was responsible for the welfare and prosperity of his people, including ensuring food security. The concept of storing grain in granaries during good years for use in lean years was a known, albeit often localized, practice. Joseph's plan, however, was unprecedented in its scale—a centralized, national policy implemented across all of Egypt. The appointment of "officers" (פקד, paqîyd) reflects the existing administrative structures of the Egyptian bureaucracy, which allowed for the delegation of authority and the implementation of large-scale projects. The "fifth part" (20%) was a significant, yet manageable, levy, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of economic sustainability in a pre-industrial society.
  • Key Themes: Genesis 41:34 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and biblical narrative. Foremost is the theme of Divine Providence and Sovereignty, showcasing God's active involvement in human affairs, even in a pagan land, to preserve life and advance His redemptive plan. Joseph's wisdom is clearly attributed to the Spirit of God within him. Another key theme is Wisdom and Discernment, as Joseph's counsel is presented as the epitome of practical wisdom, essential for effective leadership and national well-being. The verse also underscores Stewardship and Preparation, emphasizing the biblical principle of prudent management of resources during times of abundance to prepare for future scarcity, a principle echoed in Proverbs 6:6-8. Finally, it highlights God's Use of Human Agency, as God's plan for Egypt's salvation from famine is executed through the diligent efforts and strategic planning of a human agent, Joseph, demonstrating how divine will often works through human obedience and action.

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Genesis 41:34 provides the practical blueprint for national survival, a testament to Joseph's divinely inspired wisdom and foresight.

Key Word Analysis

  • Pharaoh (Egyptian, Parʻôh', H6547): This term refers to the king of Egypt (H6547). In this context, it signifies the supreme authority to whom Joseph's counsel is directed, highlighting the governmental power necessary to implement such a widespread and impactful policy. Pharaoh's acceptance and implementation of Joseph's plan underscore the absolute authority vested in the Egyptian monarch.
  • do (Hebrew, ʻâsâh', H6213): This primitive root (H6213) is broad, meaning "to do or make, in the broadest sense and widest application." Here, it signifies the active implementation and execution of the proposed strategy. "Let Pharaoh do this" implies a call to decisive action, transforming divine revelation into practical policy. It emphasizes the necessity of translating foresight into concrete steps.
  • appoint (Hebrew, pâqad', H6485): This primitive root (H6485) means "to visit (with friendly or hostile intent); by analogy, to oversee, muster, charge, care for, miss, deposit, etc." In this context, it specifically means to "appoint" or "set over," indicating the delegation of authority and the establishment of a hierarchical structure for the efficient management of the land's resources. The related noun pâqîyd (H6496) refers to the "officers" themselves, meaning superintendents or overseers.
  • fifth part (Hebrew, châmash', H2567): This denominative (H2567) means "to tax a fifth" or "take up the fifth." It specifies the exact proportion of the harvest to be collected—20%. This precise figure demonstrates the calculated nature of Joseph's plan, designed to be substantial enough for national survival but not so burdensome as to oppress the populace during the years of plenty.

Verse Breakdown

  • "Let Pharaoh do [this]": This opening phrase serves as a direct and urgent recommendation to the king, referring back to Joseph's preceding counsel in Genesis 41:33 to find a "discerning and wise man" and set him over the land. It signifies the immediate and authoritative implementation of the proposed strategy, emphasizing the necessity of decisive leadership.
  • "and let him appoint officers over the land": This clause details the first crucial step of the plan: establishing a robust administrative framework. The appointment of "officers" (Hebrew: paqîydîm, overseers or superintendents) indicates the need for delegated authority and organized management across the entire nation to effectively execute the complex task of resource collection and storage.
  • "and take up the fifth part of the land of Egypt in the seven plenteous years": This specifies the core economic policy. "The fifth part" (20%) refers to a substantial levy on the agricultural produce. This collection was to occur consistently "in the seven plenteous years," highlighting the strategic foresight to leverage the period of abundance to build up a massive national reserve, ensuring food security for the entire population during the subsequent years of famine. This proactive measure demonstrates a principle of prudent resource management and strategic planning.

Literary Devices

The verse primarily employs Foreshadowing and Pragmatism. The foreshadowing is evident in Joseph's counsel, which anticipates a future crisis (the famine) and provides a solution, thereby setting the stage for the dramatic events of the subsequent chapters where Joseph's plan saves Egypt and surrounding nations, including his own family. The explicit mention of "the seven plenteous years" and the implied "seven years of famine" creates a clear temporal framework for this prophetic foresight. Pragmatism is seen in the highly practical and actionable nature of Joseph's advice. It is not merely a spiritual interpretation but a concrete, governmental policy involving specific actions (appointing officers, collecting a specific percentage) designed to address a real-world problem. This blend of divine revelation with practical, administrative solutions underscores the holistic nature of biblical wisdom.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Genesis 41:34 powerfully illustrates God's providential care for His people and the world, often working through human wisdom and diligence. Joseph's counsel is not merely a clever human idea but a divinely inspired strategy, demonstrating God's foresight and His ability to provide for His creation even in the face of impending disaster. It highlights the biblical principle of stewardship, urging responsible management of resources during times of blessing to prepare for future needs. This verse also underscores the importance of wise leadership and governmental responsibility in ensuring the well-being and survival of a nation, acting as a conduit for God's provision.

  • Proverbs 21:20: "Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it."
  • Proverbs 27:12: "The prudent sees danger and hides himself, but the simple go on and suffer for it."
  • Deuteronomy 28:12: "The Lord will open to you his good treasury, the heavens, to give the rain to your land in its season and to bless all the work of your hands. You shall lend to many nations, but you shall not borrow."

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Genesis 41:34 offers profound and timeless principles applicable to every sphere of life, from individual finances to national policy. Joseph's divinely inspired counsel to Pharaoh serves as a powerful call to proactive foresight and diligent stewardship. In times of personal or national abundance, we are called to exercise wisdom, not merely consuming all that is given, but setting aside resources and preparing for potential future challenges. This encompasses financial prudence, such as saving and investing, but extends to spiritual and relational reserves as well—cultivating spiritual disciplines and nurturing relationships during times of ease so they can sustain us through hardship. Just as Joseph advised the appointment of competent officers, leaders in any capacity are reminded of the crucial need to identify, empower, and delegate to capable individuals, fostering a culture of preparedness and responsible management. This verse challenges us to move beyond reactive living, embracing a proactive stance rooted in trust in God's provision and a commitment to wise action, mirroring the ant's wisdom in Proverbs 6:6-8.

Questions for Reflection

  • In what areas of your life (financial, spiritual, relational) are you currently experiencing "plenteous years"? How are you stewarding these seasons of abundance?
  • What potential "famines" or challenges might lie ahead for you, your family, or your community? What proactive steps can you take now to prepare?
  • How does Joseph's example of leadership inspire your own approach to responsibility, whether in your home, workplace, or community?

FAQ

Why did Joseph recommend taking a "fifth part" (20%) instead of another amount?

Answer: Joseph's recommendation of a "fifth part" (20%) was a divinely inspired and highly practical amount. It was significant enough to build a massive national reserve over seven years—enough to feed an entire nation and surrounding regions during a severe, prolonged famine—yet not so burdensome as to cause undue hardship, economic collapse, or rebellion among the populace during the years of plenty. This percentage allowed for efficient collection, storage, and management, demonstrating a balance between necessary preparation for an unprecedented crisis and sustainable economic policy. It reflects a profound understanding of both the scale of the impending famine and the practicalities of governance.

How does this instruction relate to the biblical concept of tithing?

Answer: While both involve setting aside a portion of income or produce, Joseph's instruction to take a "fifth part" (20%) is distinct from the biblical concept of tithing. Tithing, typically a 10% levy (as seen in Leviticus 27:30), was primarily a religious obligation for the support of the priesthood, the Tabernacle/Temple, and the poor, rooted in covenant relationship with God. Joseph's plan, however, was a national economic policy for survival, a temporary measure for a specific, divinely revealed crisis, demonstrating prudent governmental stewardship and crisis management rather than a religious duty. It was a pragmatic, albeit divinely guided, tax for national food security.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

While Genesis 41:34 details a practical economic strategy for national survival, it profoundly points to Christ in its broader themes of divine foresight, provision, and salvation. Joseph, guided by the Spirit of God, prepares a way for the salvation of Egypt and surrounding nations from physical famine, acting as a providential deliverer. In a far more profound and eternal sense, Jesus Christ is the ultimate "wise and discerning man" appointed by God, who, through His perfect life, atoning sacrifice, and glorious resurrection, has stored up an inexhaustible supply of grace and eternal life for all humanity. Just as Joseph gathered physical grain in abundance to sustain earthly life, Christ offers Himself as the "bread of life" (John 6:35) and the "living water" (John 4:10-14), providing spiritual sustenance and eternal security. Through Him, we are delivered not from a temporary physical famine, but from the eternal spiritual famine of sin and death, ensuring that in Him, we will never truly face a famine of hope, truth, or eternal life (John 10:10). He is the one who "takes away the sin of the world" (John 1:29), providing ultimate salvation and abundant provision for all who believe.

Copy as

Commentary on Genesis 41 verses 33–45

Here is, I. The good advice that Joseph gave to Pharaoh, which was, 1. That in the years of plenty he should lay up for the years of famine, buy up corn when it was cheap, that he might both enrich himself and supply the country when it would be dear and scarce. Note, Fair warning should always be followed with good counsel. Therefore the prudent man foresees the evil, that he may hide himself. God has in his word told us of a day of trial and exigence before us, when we shall need all the grace we can get, and all little enough, "Now, therefore, provide accordingly." Note, further, Times of gathering must be diligently improved, because there will come a time of spending. Let us go to the ant, and learn of her this wisdom, Pro 6:6-8. 2. Because that which is everybody's work commonly proves nobody's work, he advises Pharaoh to appoint officers who should make it their business, and to select some one person to preside in the affair, Gen 41:33. Probably, if Joseph had not advised this, it would not have been done; Pharaoh's counsellors could no more improve the dream than his magicians interpret it; therefore it is said of him (Psa 105:22) that he taught the senators wisdom. Hence we may justly infer with Solomon (Ecc 4:13), Better is a poor and a wise child than an old and foolish king.

II. The great honour that Pharaoh did to Joseph. 1. He gave him an honourable testimony: He is a man in whom the Spirit of God is; and this puts a great excellency upon any man; such men ought to be valued, Gen 41:38. He is a nonsuch for prudence: There is none so discreet and wise as thou art, Gen 41:39. Now he is abundantly recompensed for the disgrace that had been done him; and his righteousness is as the morning light, Psa 37:6. 2. He put him into an honourable office; not only employed him to buy up corn, but made him prime-minister of state, comptroller of the household - Thou shalt be over my house, chief justice of the kingdom - according to thy word shall all my people be ruled, or armed, as some read it, and then it bespeaks him general of the forces. Him commission was very ample: I have set thee over all the land of Egypt (Gen 41:41); without thee shall no man life up his hand or foot (Gen 41:44); all the affairs of the kingdom must pass through his hand. Nay (Gen 41:40), only in the throne will I be greater than thou. Note, It is the wisdom of princes to prefer those, and the happiness of people to have those preferred, to places of power and trust, in whom the Spirit of God is. It is probable that there were those about the court who opposed Joseph's preferment, which occasioned Pharaoh so often to repeat the grant, and with that solemn sanction (Gen 41:44), I am Pharaoh. When the proposal was made that there should be a corn-master-general nominated, it is said (Gen 41:37), Pharaoh's servants were all pleased with the proposal, each hoping for the place; but when Pharaoh said to them, "Joseph shall be the man," we do not read that they made him any answer, being uneasy at it, and acquiescing only because they could not help it. Joseph had enemies, no doubt, archers that shot at him, and hated him (Gen 49:23), as Daniel, Dan 6:4. 3. He put upon him all the marks of honour imaginable, to recommend him to the esteem and respect of the people as the king's favourite, and one whom he delighted to honour. (1.) He gave him his own ring, as a ratification of his commission, and in token of peculiar favour; or it was like delivering him the great seal. (2.) He put fine clothes upon him, instead of his prison garments. For those that are in kings' palaces must wear soft clothing; he that, in the morning, was dragging his fetters of iron, before night was adorned with a chain of gold. (3.) He made him ride in the second chariot to his own, and ordered all to do homage to him: "Bow the knee, as to Pharaoh himself." (4.) He gave him a new name, to show his authority over him, and yet such a name as bespoke the value he had for him, Zaphnathpaaneah - A revealer of secrets. (5.) He married him honourably to a prince's daughter. Where God had been liberal in giving wisdom and other merits, Pharaoh was not sparing in conferring honours. Now this preferment of Joseph was, [1.] An abundant recompense for his innocent and patient suffering, a lasting instance of the equity and goodness of Providence, and an encouragement to all good people to trust in a good God. [2.] It was typical of the exaltation of Christ, that great revealer of secrets (Joh 1:18), or, as some translate Joseph's new name, the Saviour of the world. The brightest glories of the upper world are put upon him, the highest trust is lodged in his hand, and all power is given to him both in heaven and earth. He is gatherer, keeper, and disposer, of all the stores of divine grace, and chief ruler of the kingdom of God among men. The work of minsters is to cry before him, "Bow the knee; kiss the Son."

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 33–45. Public domain.
Copy as
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as

Continue studying Genesis 41:34 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.

Read & Compare

Commentaries

Original Language & Research

Sermons, Hymns & Audio

TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.