Genesis 41:38

KJV

And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find [such a one] as this [is], a man in whom the Spirit of God [is]?

KJV (with Strong's)

And Pharaoh {H6547} said {H559} unto his servants {H5650}, Can we find {H4672} such a one as this {H2088} is, a man {H376} in whom {H834} the Spirit {H7307} of God {H430} is?

Complete Jewish Bible

Pharaoh said to his officials, "Can we find anyone else like him? The Spirit of God lives in him!"

Berean Standard Bible

So Pharaoh asked them, “Can we find anyone like this man, in whom the Spirit of God abides?”

American Standard Version

And Pharaoh said unto his servants, Can we find such a one as this, a man in whom the spirit of God is?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 41:38 records Pharaoh's profound recognition of Joseph's extraordinary wisdom and insight after Joseph successfully interpreted Pharaoh's disturbing dreams and proposed a strategic plan to save Egypt from a coming famine. This pivotal verse marks Joseph's transition from an unjustly imprisoned slave to the second most powerful man in Egypt, highlighting God's sovereign hand in elevating His chosen servant for a divine purpose and revealing the discernibility of divine anointing even to a pagan ruler.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** The immediate literary context of Genesis 41:38 is the dramatic climax of Joseph's long and arduous journey from the pit to the palace. Prior to this verse, Joseph, having languished in prison for years due to Potiphar's wife's false accusations, is suddenly remembered by the chief cupbearer, whose dream Joseph had accurately interpreted in [Genesis 40](/genesis/40 "Genesis 40 - Joseph Interprets Dreams in Prison"). Pharaoh, deeply troubled by his own inexplicable dreams and frustrated by the inability of his wise men and magicians to interpret them, hears of Joseph's unique gift. Joseph is hastily brought before Pharaoh, and in a crucial moment, he humbly attributes his interpretive ability entirely to God, as he consistently does throughout the narrative (e.g., [Genesis 40:8](/genesis/40-8 "Joseph's Humility and God's Power")). After accurately interpreting Pharaoh's dreams as seven years of abundance followed by seven years of severe famine, Joseph then, unprompted, proposes a detailed, divinely inspired plan for national resource management. Pharaoh's response in [Genesis 41:38](/genesis/41-38 "Pharaoh's Recognition of Joseph") is the culmination of this divine revelation and strategic counsel, leading directly to Joseph's immediate exaltation.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a highly advanced civilization, yet deeply steeped in polytheism and magical practices. Pharaoh was considered a divine king, a living god, and his dreams were often seen as omens from the gods. The court's "wise men and magicians" (Hebrew: *ḥartummîm* and *ḥakāmîm*) were the official interpreters of such phenomena, holding significant religious and political power. For Pharaoh to be so utterly stumped by his dreams, and for his trusted advisors to fail, created a profound crisis. The concept of a single, supreme God, as presented by Joseph, would have been alien to Egyptian theology. Furthermore, the idea of a slave or prisoner being elevated to such a high position was extraordinary, though not entirely unprecedented in ancient Near Eastern history if their skills proved indispensable. Joseph's elevation transcends typical social mobility, as it is explicitly attributed to a divine, external power, challenging the very foundation of Pharaoh's own perceived divinity and the efficacy of his pantheon.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 41:38 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and biblical theology. First, it powerfully illustrates **Divine Providence and Sovereignty**, demonstrating how God orchestrates seemingly random or adverse events—like Joseph's unjust suffering—to fulfill His ultimate purposes, not only for Joseph but for the nascent nation of Israel (as seen in [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "God's Redemptive Plan Through Evil")). Second, it highlights the theme of **Godly Wisdom and Discernment**, showcasing that true, life-saving wisdom originates from God alone, not from human ingenuity or pagan practices. Joseph's wisdom is not merely intellectual but spiritual, enabling him to perceive and articulate God's will. Third, the verse underscores the theme of **God's Presence and Empowerment**, specifically through the "Spirit of God," which is shown to indwell and enable individuals for specific tasks, a precursor to the Spirit's broader work in empowering leaders and prophets throughout the Old Testament and ultimately in the New Testament (e.g., [Exodus 31:3](/exodus/31-3 "The Spirit of God empowers Bezalel")). Finally, it speaks to the theme of **Divine Witness in a Pagan World**, as Joseph's life and God-given abilities serve as an undeniable testimony to the one true God in the heart of a polytheistic empire.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 41:38 captures Pharaoh's astonished question to his servants: "Can we find [such a one] as this [is], a man in whom the Spirit of God [is]?" This rhetorical question underscores the unparalleled nature of Joseph's wisdom and the immediate, undeniable impact it had on the most powerful ruler of the ancient world. Pharaoh, a pagan king, recognized something supernatural in Joseph's counsel, something far beyond ordinary human ingenuity or political acumen.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **find (Hebrew, _mâtsâ'_):** This verb (H4672) means "to come forth to, i.e. appear or exist; transitively, to attain, i.e. find or acquire; figuratively, to occur, meet or be present." Pharaoh's use of "find" here emphasizes a search or discovery of someone uniquely qualified. It implies that such a person is rare, if not impossible, to come across through ordinary means, highlighting Joseph's exceptionalism and the divine source of his abilities.
* **man (Hebrew, _ʼîysh'_):** This noun (H376) refers to "a man as an individual or a male person." In this context, it emphasizes Joseph's humanity, yet paradoxically, it is this ordinary man who possesses an extraordinary, divine quality. Pharaoh is not seeking a god or a demigod, but a human being uniquely endowed, which makes the presence of the Spirit of God all the more remarkable in a mortal vessel.
* **Spirit (Hebrew, _rûwach'_):** This noun (H7307) signifies "wind; by resemblance breath, i.e. a sensible (or even violent) exhalation; figuratively, life, anger, unsubstantiality; by extension, a region of the sky; by resemblance spirit, but only of a rational being (including its expression and functions)." Here, *ruach* refers to a divine, powerful, and life-giving force that imparts extraordinary wisdom and understanding. It is not merely Joseph's intellect, but a supernatural endowment.
* **God (Hebrew, _ʼĕlôhîym'_):** This plural noun (H430) is used here to refer to "the supreme God." While Pharaoh was a polytheist, his use of *Elohim* in this context, especially in conjunction with *ruach*, suggests a recognition of a superior divine power at work, distinct from his own pantheon. It's an acknowledgment of a singular, potent divine force that has empowered Joseph.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Pharaoh said unto his servants":** This opening clause sets the scene, indicating a formal declaration made by the highest authority in Egypt to his inner circle. It underscores the weight and significance of his subsequent question, as it is a pronouncement from the king to his most trusted advisors, reflecting a moment of profound realization and decision.
* **"Can we find [such a one] as this [is]":** This is a rhetorical question, expressing Pharaoh's astonishment and the perceived uniqueness of Joseph. It implies that Joseph's wisdom and insight are unparalleled, beyond anything his own wise men or magicians could offer. Pharaoh is not genuinely asking for a search; rather, he is declaring that Joseph is the only possible candidate.
* **"a man in whom the Spirit of God [is]?":** This concluding phrase provides the reason for Joseph's unparalleled ability. Pharaoh, a pagan king, discerns that Joseph's wisdom is not merely human ingenuity but a direct endowment from a divine source. The phrase "Spirit of God" (Hebrew: *ruach Elohim*) indicates a supernatural, divine influence or presence that imparts extraordinary abilities, wisdom, and understanding, setting Joseph apart.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Genesis 41:38 is a **Rhetorical Question**. Pharaoh's inquiry, "Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom the Spirit of God is?", is not posed to elicit an answer from his servants but to emphasize the extraordinary and singular nature of Joseph's wisdom. It powerfully conveys Pharaoh's conviction that Joseph is uniquely qualified due to divine empowerment, making any search for an alternative futile. This rhetorical question serves to highlight Joseph's unparalleled status and the undeniable evidence of God's presence in his life. Additionally, there is an element of **Divine Recognition**, where a pagan ruler, through observation of Joseph's divinely-given wisdom, acknowledges the active presence of a superior "Spirit of God," transcending his own polytheistic worldview. This recognition underscores the universal discernibility of God's power and wisdom when manifested through His chosen instruments.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 41:38 is a powerful testament to God's active involvement in human affairs, demonstrating His ability to elevate and empower individuals for His sovereign purposes, even in the most unlikely circumstances and through the most unexpected channels. It highlights that true wisdom and effective leadership are ultimately gifts from God, not merely products of human intellect or worldly power. Pharaoh's acknowledgment of the "Spirit of God" in Joseph underscores the fact that God's presence and anointing are discernible even to those outside of His covenant people, serving as a compelling witness to His reality and power in a pagan world. This verse beautifully sets the stage for God's continued preservation of His covenant family through Joseph, ensuring the lineage through which the Messiah would eventually come.

* [Numbers 27:18](/numbers/27-18 "Joshua, a man in whom is the Spirit")
* [Isaiah 11:2](/isaiah/11-2 "The Spirit of the Lord rests on the Messiah")
* [Proverbs 2:6](/proverbs/2-6 "God gives wisdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 41:38 offers profound insights for contemporary believers, reminding us that God's hand is sovereign over all circumstances, even those marked by injustice and suffering. Joseph's journey from pit to palace illustrates that our trials can be God's training ground, preparing us for His unique purposes. This passage challenges us to cultivate a life deeply connected to God, recognizing that true wisdom and discernment for life's challenges come from Him, not from worldly counsel. When we allow the Holy Spirit to indwell and empower us, our lives can become powerful testimonies, enabling us to serve with integrity and excellence in our spheres of influence, whether in the workplace, community, or home. Our character and God-given abilities, when submitted to Him, can attract attention and open doors, allowing us to be a light and a witness for God in a world that desperately needs His wisdom and truth.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Joseph's consistent attribution of his abilities to God challenge our tendency to take credit for our successes or rely solely on our own intellect?**
* **In what areas of your life do you need to seek God's divine wisdom and empowerment, rather than relying on human solutions?**
* **How can your life, empowered by the Spirit, serve as a witness to those around you who may not know God, much like Joseph's life did for Pharaoh?**
* **What "prisons" or difficult circumstances in your life might God be using to prepare you for a greater purpose, just as He did for Joseph?**

### FAQ
**What does "Spirit of God" mean in the context of Joseph in Genesis 41:38?**

Answer: In [Genesis 41:38](/genesis/41-38 "Understanding 'Spirit of God' in Genesis 41:38"), "Spirit of God" (Hebrew: *ruach Elohim*) refers to a divine, supernatural influence or presence that imparted extraordinary wisdom, insight, and administrative ability to Joseph. It signifies that Joseph's capacity to interpret dreams and devise a national strategy for famine was not merely human ingenuity but a direct endowment from God. This is one of the earliest explicit mentions in the Old Testament of the Spirit empowering an individual for specific service and leadership, demonstrating God's active involvement in equipping His chosen servants for divine purposes.

**Why would a pagan king like Pharaoh recognize the "Spirit of God" in Joseph?**

Answer: Pharaoh, despite being a pagan king, recognized the "Spirit of God" in Joseph because the wisdom and insight Joseph displayed were undeniably profound, accurate, and practical, far exceeding any human capability or the counsel of his own wise men and magicians. The clarity of Joseph's dream interpretation and the detailed, actionable nature of his proposed solution were so compelling that Pharaoh could only attribute them to a divine, supernatural source. This demonstrates that God's power and wisdom are self-evident and can be discerned even by those outside of a covenant relationship with Him, serving as a powerful testimony to His existence and active involvement in the world, even in a polytheistic context.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph, as seen in [Genesis 41:38](/genesis/41-38 "Christ-centered fulfillment in Genesis 41:38"), serves as a remarkable type of Christ, foreshadowing the person and work of the Messiah in profound ways. Just as Joseph, though rejected by his own brothers and unjustly imprisoned, was exalted by God to a position of ultimate authority in Egypt, so too was Christ, though rejected by His own people and crucified, exalted by God to the highest place, becoming Lord over all creation and receiving a name that is above every name ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Christ's exaltation and Lordship")). Pharaoh's recognition of the "Spirit of God" in Joseph points to Jesus, who was uniquely filled with the Holy Spirit without measure ([John 3:34](/john/3-34 "Jesus filled with the Spirit without measure")) and upon whom the Spirit of the Lord rested to equip Him for His messianic mission ([Isaiah 11:2](/isaiah/11-2 "The Spirit of the Lord rests on the Messiah")). Joseph's divine wisdom saved a nation from physical famine and ultimately preserved his own family; similarly, Christ, through His perfect wisdom and sacrifice, offers spiritual sustenance and eternal salvation, delivering humanity from the famine of sin and death, becoming the true "bread of life" for all who believe ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "Jesus, the Bread of Life")).

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

Job 32:8

But [there is] a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding.

Daniel 5:14

I have even heard of thee, that the spirit of the gods [is] in thee, and [that] light and understanding and excellent wisdom is found in thee.

Numbers 27:18

And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom [is] the spirit, and lay thine hand upon him;

Daniel 5:11

There is a man in thy kingdom, in whom [is] the spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of thy father light and understanding and wisdom, like the wisdom of the gods, was found in him; whom the king Nebuchadnezzar thy father, the king, [I say], thy father, made master of the magicians, astrologers, Chaldeans, [and] soothsayers;

Daniel 4:18

This dream I king Nebuchadnezzar have seen. Now thou, O Belteshazzar, declare the interpretation thereof, forasmuch as all the wise [men] of my kingdom are not able to make known unto me the interpretation: but thou [art] able; for the spirit of the holy gods [is] in thee.

Daniel 4:6

Therefore made I a decree to bring in all the wise [men] of Babylon before me, that they might make known unto me the interpretation of the dream.

Daniel 4:8

But at the last Daniel came in before me, whose name [was] Belteshazzar, according to the name of my god, and in whom [is] the spirit of the holy gods: and before him I told the dream, [saying],