Genesis 45:17

KJV

And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Say unto thy brethren, This do ye; lade your beasts, and go, get you unto the land of Canaan;

KJV (with Strong's)

And Pharaoh {H6547} said {H559} unto Joseph {H3130}, Say {H559} unto thy brethren {H251}, This do {H6213} ye; lade {H2943} your beasts {H1165}, and go {H3212}, get {H935} you unto the land {H776} of Canaan {H3667};

Complete Jewish Bible

Pharaoh said to Yosef, "Tell your brothers, 'Here is what you are to do. Load up your animals, go to the land of Kena'an,

Berean Standard Bible

Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘Do as follows: Load your animals and return to the land of Canaan.

American Standard Version

And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Say unto thy brethren, This do ye: lade your beasts, and go, get you unto the land of Canaan;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 45:17 captures a pivotal moment in the unfolding narrative of Joseph and his family, showcasing Pharaoh's extraordinary generosity and support. Following Joseph's emotional revelation of his identity to his brothers, the Egyptian ruler, recognizing Joseph's immense value to his kingdom, issues a direct and authoritative command. This verse details Pharaoh's instruction for Joseph to send his brothers back to Canaan to gather their entire household, ensuring their safe passage and relocation to the fertile land of Goshen in Egypt. It underscores the culmination of divine providence, transforming a tale of familial betrayal into one of reconciliation and preservation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse immediately follows the profoundly emotional and dramatic revelation of Joseph's identity to his astonished brothers in [Genesis 45:1-15](/genesis/45-1-15 "Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and comforts them"). Joseph has just assured his brothers that their past actions, though evil, were part of God's sovereign plan to preserve life ([Genesis 45:5-8](/genesis/45-5-8 "Joseph's theological interpretation of events")). The news of Joseph's brothers arriving and his emotional reunion with them quickly reached Pharaoh's palace ([Genesis 45:16](/genesis/45-16 "News reaches Pharaoh's house")). Pharaoh's response, as seen in this verse, is one of unreserved pleasure and generosity, demonstrating his profound respect for Joseph and his desire to secure the well-being of Joseph's kin. The command here sets in motion the practical steps for Jacob's entire family to relocate to Egypt, transitioning the narrative from personal reconciliation to the logistical fulfillment of God's larger plan for His covenant people.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The backdrop to this passage is a severe, multi-year famine that gripped the entire region ([Genesis 41:56-57](/genesis/41-56-57 "The severity of the famine")). Egypt, under Joseph's wise administration, was the only land with abundant grain, making it a beacon of survival. Pharaoh, as the absolute monarch, held immense power and authority. His decree was law, and his generosity, especially towards foreigners, was remarkable, highlighting the extraordinary favor Joseph had earned. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, a king's favor extended not just to the individual but often to their entire household. Pharaoh's invitation for Jacob's family to settle in Egypt was an act of profound hospitality and a strategic move to ensure Joseph's continued loyalty and service, recognizing that a man's family was central to his identity and well-being. The "land of Canaan" was the ancestral home of Jacob's family, but it was currently devastated by the famine, making the move to Egypt a matter of survival.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 45:17 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis. Foremost is **Divine Providence**, illustrating how God orchestrates seemingly disparate events—from Joseph's betrayal and enslavement ([Genesis 37:28](/genesis/37-28 "Joseph sold into slavery")) to his rise in Egypt ([Genesis 41:40-44](/genesis/41-40-44 "Joseph's exaltation in Egypt"))—to fulfill His ultimate purposes, specifically the preservation of His chosen people. The verse also highlights the theme of **Reconciliation and Restoration**, as the family, once fractured by sin and deceit, is brought back together under Joseph's care, facilitated by Pharaoh's decree. Furthermore, it underscores **God's Covenant Faithfulness**, as the preservation of Jacob's family in Egypt is a crucial step towards their growth into a great nation, as promised to Abraham ([Genesis 12:2-3](/genesis/12-2-3 "God's covenant promise to Abraham")). Pharaoh's generosity, though seemingly secular, becomes an instrument in God's hands to achieve His divine will.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **said (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** (H559) This primitive root signifies "to say" with great latitude, encompassing answering, appointing, commanding, declaring, and speaking. In this context, it emphasizes the authoritative nature of Pharaoh's communication. It's not merely a suggestion but a royal decree, carrying the full weight of his supreme power and ensuring immediate compliance. The repetition of "say" (first Pharaoh to Joseph, then Joseph to his brethren) underscores the chain of command and the urgency of the message.
* **lade (Hebrew, _ṭâʻan'_):** (H2943) This primitive root means "to load a beast." It is a practical and direct command, indicating the physical action required for the journey. It implies preparing their animals not just with personal belongings but also with provisions for the long trip back to Canaan and the subsequent return journey to Egypt with the entire extended family. This word highlights the logistical and material aspects of the royal provision and the immediate task at hand for Joseph's brothers.
* **beasts (Hebrew, _bᵉʻîyr'_):** (H1165) Derived from a root meaning "to eat," this term refers to cattle or domesticated animals used for transport and sustenance. In this context, it specifically refers to the donkeys and other pack animals that Joseph's brothers would use for their journey. The command to "lade your beasts" emphasizes the practical means by which the large family and their possessions would be transported from Canaan to Egypt, underscoring the scale of the relocation Pharaoh was facilitating.
* **go (Hebrew, _yâlak'_):** (H3212) A primitive root meaning "to walk" or "to go," used in a wide variety of applications including departing, coming, carrying, and leading. Here, it denotes the imperative action of setting out on a journey. Coupled with "get you unto the land of Canaan," it signifies a direct and purposeful movement, not just a casual departure. This verb highlights the immediate and necessary travel required to fulfill Pharaoh's command and bring Jacob's family to Egypt.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Say unto thy brethren,"**: This opening clause establishes the chain of command and the authoritative source of the instruction. Pharaoh, the most powerful man in Egypt, directly addresses Joseph, entrusting him with the task of relaying this crucial message to his brothers. The repetition of "say" (first from Pharaoh to Joseph, then Joseph to his brothers) emphasizes the directness and importance of the royal decree.
* **"This do ye;"**: This is a concise, emphatic, and imperative command. "This" refers to the specific instructions that follow. It conveys the urgency and non-negotiable nature of Pharaoh's will. There is no room for debate or delay; the action is to be undertaken immediately and without question. It reflects the absolute authority of the monarch.
* **"lade your beasts,"**: This is a practical and direct instruction concerning the preparation for the journey. It implies the necessity of equipping their animals with provisions, supplies, and whatever belongings they would need for the round trip to Canaan and the subsequent relocation of the entire family to Egypt. This command highlights the logistical planning and the generosity of Pharaoh, who would likely provide the necessary resources for such a significant undertaking.
* **"and go, get you unto the land of Canaan;"**: This specifies the destination and the purpose of their immediate journey. They are to return to their homeland, Canaan, not to remain there, but specifically to "get" (bring) their father Jacob and the rest of the family. This part of the command sets the stage for the grand family reunion and the relocation that is central to God's plan for Israel's growth in Egypt.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Direct Speech**, presenting Pharaoh's exact words to Joseph, which lends authenticity and immediacy to the narrative. This direct address underscores Pharaoh's absolute **Authority** and the **Imperative Mood** of his commands ("Say," "do," "lade," "go," "get"). The concise nature of the decree, particularly "This do ye," functions as a **Royal Edict**, emphasizing the non-negotiable and immediate nature of the king's will. Furthermore, the entire scene functions as **Foreshadowing**, setting the stage for the grand reunion of Jacob's entire family in Egypt and their subsequent growth into a nation, a critical step in the fulfillment of God's covenant promises.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 45:17 is a powerful testament to God's meticulous and overarching providence, demonstrating His ability to use even the most powerful secular rulers as instruments in His divine plan. Pharaoh's unsolicited generosity and authoritative command are not random acts but are divinely orchestrated to ensure the survival and flourishing of Jacob's family. This act of royal favor, stemming from Joseph's wisdom and faithfulness, underscores the principle that God honors those who honor Him, and that He can turn seemingly dire circumstances into opportunities for profound blessing and the advancement of His redemptive purposes. The verse highlights the practical steps taken to bring about the family's preservation, which is ultimately a fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

* [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's declaration of God's redemptive purpose")
* [Psalm 105:16-23](/psalm/105-16-23 "God's providential care for Israel through Joseph")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "All things work together for good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 45:17 offers profound insights into God's sovereign control over all circumstances, even those involving powerful secular leaders. It reminds us that God's plan is often far grander and more intricate than we can perceive, working through unexpected channels to bring about His perfect will. For believers, this verse provides immense comfort, assuring us that even in times of "famine" or great difficulty, God is actively at work, orchestrating events for our good and for the fulfillment of His purposes. It encourages us to trust in His providence, knowing that He can transform situations of betrayal and hardship into opportunities for reconciliation, provision, and the advancement of His kingdom. Moreover, it highlights the importance of humility and forgiveness, as seen in the restored relationship between Joseph and his brothers, demonstrating that God's grace can heal even the deepest family wounds and bring about complete restoration.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Pharaoh's generosity in this verse challenge or affirm your understanding of God's sovereignty working through secular authorities?**
* **In what "famine" areas of your life (spiritual, emotional, relational) do you need to trust God's provision and orchestration, similar to how He provided for Jacob's family?**
* **What steps can you take to foster reconciliation and healing in your own family relationships, drawing inspiration from Joseph's story?**

### FAQ
**Why was Pharaoh so generous to Joseph's family?**

Answer: Pharaoh's remarkable generosity stemmed primarily from his deep respect and profound gratitude for Joseph. Joseph had, through divine wisdom and administrative skill, saved Egypt from the devastating seven-year famine, elevating the kingdom to unprecedented prosperity. Pharaoh recognized Joseph's invaluable contribution and sought to honor him by extending favor to his entire family, ensuring their comfort and well-being in Egypt. This act also served Pharaoh's interest by securing Joseph's continued loyalty and service, as a man's family was central to his identity and commitment in ancient cultures. The news of Joseph's family arriving was pleasing to Pharaoh ([Genesis 45:16](/genesis/45-16 "Pharaoh pleased by news of Joseph's family")).

**What is the practical significance of "lade your beasts"?**

Answer: The phrase "lade your beasts" is a crucial practical instruction for Joseph's brothers to prepare their donkeys and other pack animals for the journey. It implies not only loading their personal belongings but also provisions and supplies for the long trip back to the famine-stricken [land of Canaan](/genesis/45-17 "The land of Canaan") and then the return journey to Egypt with their entire extended family, including Jacob, their wives, and children. This command underscores the urgency and the significant logistical planning involved in the relocation, which Pharaoh himself was facilitating and providing for, as seen in the subsequent verses where he offers wagons and the best of the land ([Genesis 45:18-21](/genesis/45-18-21 "Pharaoh's further provisions for Joseph's family")).

**Does this verse imply God's direct intervention through Pharaoh?**

Answer: While the verse describes Pharaoh's direct command, the broader narrative of Joseph's life clearly indicates divine orchestration. Joseph himself articulates this theological perspective, stating that God sent him ahead to preserve life ([Genesis 45:5](/genesis/45-5 "Joseph's interpretation of God's purpose")). Pharaoh, though unaware of the specific divine plan, acts as an unwitting instrument in God's sovereign purpose. God used Pharaoh's favor and Joseph's position to fulfill His redemptive plan to preserve Jacob's family and ultimately bring them to Egypt, a necessary step for their growth into a nation before the Exodus ([Exodus 1:7](/exodus/1-7 "Israel's growth in Egypt")). This demonstrates that God can work through any individual or circumstance, even secular rulers, to achieve His purposes and fulfill His covenant promises.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 45:17, with Pharaoh's generous command to Joseph to bring his family to Egypt, provides a profound foreshadowing of Christ's redemptive work and the gathering of His people. Just as Joseph, a type of Christ, was exalted to a position of power and became the savior of his family and many nations from the devastating famine, so too is Christ exalted as the ultimate Provider and Savior of humanity from spiritual famine and eternal death ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "Jesus, the Bread of Life")). Pharaoh's royal invitation for Joseph's family to "lade your beasts, and go, get you unto the land of Canaan" to bring their father and household to a place of sustenance in Egypt mirrors Christ's gracious call to humanity. He invites us, who are spiritually famished and lost in the "land of Canaan" (representing the world's brokenness, sin, and separation from God), to come to Him for true spiritual nourishment and eternal life ([Matthew 11:28-30](/matthew/11-28-30 "Come to Me, all who labor and are heavy laden")). Through Christ, the scattered children of God are gathered, reconciled to God and to one another, and brought into His abundant kingdom, fulfilling the ultimate reunion and provision that Joseph's story so beautifully typifies ([Ephesians 2:19-22](/ephesians/2-19-22 "Built together into God's dwelling place")). His sacrifice ensures that we are not merely offered temporary relief but are brought into a permanent dwelling place with Him, the true "best of the land" ([John 14:2-3](/john/14-2-3 "Jesus prepares a place for His followers")).

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 42:25

Then Joseph commanded to fill their sacks with corn, and to restore every man's money into his sack, and to give them provision for the way: and thus did he unto them.

Genesis 42:26

And they laded their asses with the corn, and departed thence.

Genesis 44:1

¶ And he commanded the steward of his house, saying, Fill the men's sacks [with] food, as much as they can carry, and put every man's money in his sack's mouth.

Genesis 44:2

And put my cup, the silver cup, in the sack's mouth of the youngest, and his corn money. And he did according to the word that Joseph had spoken.