Genesis 41:57

KJV

And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph for to buy [corn]; because that the famine was [so] sore in all lands.

KJV (with Strong's)

And all countries {H776} came {H935} into Egypt {H4714} to Joseph {H3130} for to buy {H7666} corn; because that the famine {H7458} was so sore {H2388} in all lands {H776}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Moreover all countries came to Egypt to Yosef to buy grain, because the famine was severe throughout the earth.

Berean Standard Bible

And every nation came to Joseph in Egypt to buy grain, because the famine was severe over all the earth.

American Standard Version

And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph to buy grain, because the famine was sore in all the earth.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 41:57 serves as the narrative climax of the global famine, powerfully illustrating how the severe scarcity of food compelled people from "all countries" to journey to Egypt. This verse underscores the unparalleled severity of the crisis and highlights Egypt's unique and divinely-orchestrated position as the world's sole provider of sustenance, administered by Joseph.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse marks the culmination of Joseph's divinely orchestrated rise to power and his strategic preparation for a prophesied global famine. It follows the detailed account of Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams in [Genesis 41:25-36](/genesis/41-25-36 "Joseph's Interpretation of Pharaoh's Dreams"), which foretold seven years of abundant harvest followed by seven years of severe famine. Joseph, elevated to second-in-command, meticulously implemented a massive grain storage program during the years of plenty ([Genesis 41:47-49](/genesis/41-47-49 "Joseph's Grain Storage Program")). As the famine intensified and spread "over all the face of the earth" ([Genesis 41:56](/genesis/41-56 "The Famine Spreads Over All the Earth")), Egypt, under Joseph's wise and divinely-guided administration, became the singular beacon of hope and the only source of sustenance for the surrounding nations. This verse, therefore, marks the fulfillment of the prophetic warning and the successful execution of Joseph's strategic plan, setting the stage for the eventual reunion with his family.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Famines were a recurring and devastating threat in the ancient Near East, often caused by unpredictable rainfall patterns or natural disasters. However, the famine described in Genesis 41 was unprecedented in its global scope and severity, impacting "all lands." Egypt, uniquely sustained by the annual flooding of the Nile River, possessed a more stable agricultural system compared to rain-dependent regions. This geographical advantage, combined with Joseph's divinely-inspired foresight and administrative genius, positioned Egypt as the only nation capable of weathering such a prolonged and widespread crisis. The act of "buying corn" implies a functioning economic system, even amidst widespread scarcity, where Egypt could leverage its stored surplus. The arduous journey of people from "all countries" highlights the desperate measures taken by nations facing starvation, signifying Egypt's unparalleled status as a granary for the world.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 41:57 encapsulates several overarching themes prevalent in the book of Genesis and Joseph's narrative. Foremost is **Divine Providence**, demonstrating God's sovereign control over seemingly chaotic events, using a natural disaster to orchestrate His redemptive purposes, particularly the preservation of Jacob's family (as seen in [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's Declaration of God's Redemptive Purpose")). The theme of **Wisdom and Stewardship** is also prominent, as Joseph's God-given ability to interpret dreams and implement a strategic plan averted widespread death, showcasing responsible leadership in times of abundance and scarcity. Furthermore, the verse highlights **God's Universal Provision**, extending His care beyond the covenant people to all nations, even if through indirect means. Finally, it sets the stage for the **Formation of Israel**, as the famine ultimately compels Jacob and his family to migrate to Egypt, a crucial step in the growth of the chosen nation, as detailed in [Genesis 46](/genesis/46 "Jacob's Migration to Egypt").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 41:57 succinctly captures the widespread impact of the famine, emphasizing the global reach of the crisis and the unique role Egypt played in providing relief. The verse states that "all countries came into Egypt to Joseph for to buy [corn]; because that the famine was [so] sore in all lands." This highlights not only the severity of the scarcity but also the renown of Joseph's provision.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sore (Hebrew, _châzaq'_):** Derived from a primitive root meaning "to fasten upon" or "to be strong," here it signifies the intense severity and oppressive nature of the famine. The famine was not merely present but had taken a powerful, unyielding grip on the lands, making its effects deeply felt and inescapable. This emphasizes the dire necessity that drove people to Egypt.
* **famine (Hebrew, _râʻâb'_):** This term denotes hunger, specifically a widespread and severe scarcity of food. Its use here underscores the devastating lack of sustenance across the globe, indicating a crisis far beyond localized hunger. It highlights the primary cause for the mass migration to Egypt.
* **countries (Hebrew, _ʼerets'_):** Meaning "earth" or "land," its repetition ("all countries... in all lands") emphasizes the universal reach and devastating impact of the famine. It signifies that no region was exempt from the scarcity, compelling diverse populations to seek relief from the single source of provision.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And all countries came into Egypt to Joseph":** This clause highlights the universal reach of the famine and the singular destination for relief. The phrase "all countries" (Hebrew: *kol-ha'arets*) emphasizes the global scope of the crisis, indicating that the scarcity of food was not localized but affected diverse regions beyond Egypt's immediate neighbors. The specific mention of coming "to Joseph" underscores his unique and indispensable role as the administrator of Egypt's grain supply, making him the direct point of contact for those seeking sustenance. It signifies that his authority and provision were widely recognized.
* **"for to buy corn":** This phrase clarifies the purpose of their arduous journeys. The people were not seeking charity but were engaging in a commercial transaction, indicating that Egypt was selling its surplus grain. "Corn" here refers to staple grains like wheat or barley, essential for survival in the ancient world. This detail emphasizes the economic dimension of Joseph's administration and the desperate need that drove nations to expend resources to acquire food.
* **"because that the famine was so sore in all lands":** This final clause provides the compelling reason for the mass migration. The Hebrew word for "sore" (*châzaq*) implies a famine that was severe, pervasive, and had taken a strong, unyielding grip on every land. This reiterates the global nature and extreme intensity of the crisis, leaving no alternative but to seek provision from Egypt, the only place where food was available.

#### Literary Devices
Genesis 41:57 employs several literary devices to underscore the magnitude of the famine and Joseph's pivotal role. The most prominent is **Repetition**, with the phrase "all countries" appearing twice and "all lands" once, creating a sense of universal impact and emphasizing the unparalleled scope of the famine. This repetition serves to highlight the dire necessity that drove people from every corner to Egypt. While "all countries" might be a form of **Hyperbole** to convey the widespread nature rather than literal global coverage, it powerfully communicates the unprecedented severity of the crisis. The verse also functions as a moment of **Dramatic Irony**, as Joseph, who was once sold into slavery by his brothers and seemingly abandoned, now stands as the world's sole provider, holding the power of life and death over those who once sought his demise. Furthermore, the narrative itself, culminating in this verse, serves as **Foreshadowing** for the eventual arrival of Jacob's family in Egypt, setting the stage for the growth of the Israelite nation and implicitly pointing to a greater deliverer.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 41:57 powerfully articulates the profound theological truth of Divine Providence and Sovereignty. God's meticulous foresight is evident in His orchestrating of events—from Pharaoh's dreams to Joseph's elevation and the subsequent famine—all to fulfill His overarching purposes, including the preservation of life and the eventual growth of the Israelite nation. This verse demonstrates that even in the midst of a global catastrophe, God is actively working behind the scenes, using human agency, specifically Joseph's divinely-inspired wisdom and stewardship, to bring about His will. It highlights God's universal provision, showcasing His care not only for His chosen people but for all humanity, providing sustenance even for those outside the immediate covenant, thereby demonstrating His boundless grace and compassion. The crisis itself becomes a catalyst for God's redemptive plan, setting the stage for future blessings.

* [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's Declaration of God's Redemptive Purpose")
* [Psalm 105:16-17](/psalms/105-16-17 "God's Providence in Sending Famine and Joseph")
* [Acts 7:11-12](/acts/7-11-12 "The Famine in Egypt and Jacob's Family")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 41:57 offers profound insights for contemporary life, encouraging us to cultivate a posture of foresight and responsible stewardship in all areas—personal finances, community resources, and global challenges. Joseph's example teaches that even in times of abundance, wisdom dictates preparation for future uncertainties, recognizing that God often works through our diligent efforts. This verse also calls us to consider the nature of true leadership, which, like Joseph's, is characterized by integrity, selflessness, and a commitment to the common good, especially in times of crisis. It reminds us that our resources, talents, and positions are ultimately gifts from God, to be managed wisely for His glory and the benefit of others. Furthermore, the narrative instills trust in divine provision: even when faced with seemingly insurmountable global challenges or personal scarcities, we can rest in the assurance that God is sovereignly at work, orchestrating circumstances to meet needs and fulfill His purposes, often through unexpected channels and individuals. It challenges us to be open to how God might use us as instruments of His provision in a needy world.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Joseph's foresight in times of plenty challenge my own approach to resources and future planning?**
* **In what ways can I, like Joseph, be a channel of God's provision and wisdom for others in times of need or crisis?**
* **How does the global scope of the famine in Genesis 41:57 deepen my understanding of God's universal sovereignty and care, even beyond my immediate community?**

### FAQ
**Why did people come "to Joseph" specifically, rather than just "to Egypt"?**

Answer: While people certainly came to Egypt, the text's specific phrasing "to Joseph" (Hebrew: *'el Yoseph*) is a crucial detail emphasizing his unique and central role as the sole administrator and dispenser of the grain supply. Pharaoh had vested Joseph with absolute authority over the entire land of Egypt and its resources, explicitly stating, "Only in the throne will I be greater than you" ([Genesis 41:40](/genesis/41-40 "Pharaoh Elevates Joseph")). Joseph was not merely a bureaucrat; he was the visible and effective agent through whom God's provision was channeled. Thus, coming "to Joseph" meant coming to the very source of sustenance, the one person empowered to distribute the life-saving grain. This highlights his personal authority and the direct link between his divinely-given wisdom and the preservation of life for "all countries" ([Genesis 41:57](/genesis/41-57 "All Countries Came to Joseph")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph's extraordinary role in Genesis 41:57, where "all countries came" to him for life-sustaining "corn" during a global famine, serves as a profound type of Christ. Just as Joseph, elevated by Pharaoh, became the world's physical savior from starvation, so too is Jesus Christ the ultimate Savior to whom all humanity must come for spiritual life and eternal sustenance. In a world spiritually starving due to the pervasive famine of sin, Jesus declares Himself to be the "bread of life" ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "Jesus is the Bread of Life")), the one who provides true and lasting nourishment that satisfies the deepest human hunger. He is the "living bread that came down from heaven" ([John 6:51](/john/6-51 "Jesus, the Living Bread")), offering eternal life to all who believe. Through His sacrificial death and glorious resurrection, Christ offers an inexhaustible supply of grace and salvation, drawing people from "all lands" and "every tribe and language and people and nation" ([Revelation 5:9](/revelation/5-9 "The Lamb Who Redeemed All Nations")) to Himself for redemption and true spiritual vitality. Joseph's provision was temporary and physical; Christ's provision is eternal and spiritual, fulfilling the deeper human need.

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

Genesis 41:54

And the seven years of dearth began to come, according as Joseph had said: and the dearth was in all lands; but in all the land of Egypt there was bread.

Genesis 41:56

And the famine was over all the face of the earth: And Joseph opened all the storehouses, and sold unto the Egyptians; and the famine waxed sore in the land of Egypt.

Genesis 42:5

And the sons of Israel came to buy [corn] among those that came: for the famine was in the land of Canaan.

Deuteronomy 9:28

Lest the land whence thou broughtest us out say, Because the LORD was not able to bring them into the land which he promised them, and because he hated them, he hath brought them out to slay them in the wilderness.

Psalms 105:16

Moreover he called for a famine upon the land: he brake the whole staff of bread.

Psalms 105:17

He sent a man before them, [even] Joseph, [who] was sold for a servant:

Genesis 42:1

¶ Now when Jacob saw that there was corn in Egypt, Jacob said unto his sons, Why do ye look one upon another?