Genesis 47:2

And he took some of his brethren, [even] five men, and presented them unto Pharaoh.

And he took {H3947} some {H7097} of his brethren {H251}, even five {H2568} men {H582}, and presented {H3322} them unto {H6440} Pharaoh {H6547}.

He took five of his brothers and presented them to Pharaoh.

And he chose five of his brothers and presented them before Pharaoh.

And from among his brethren he took five men, and presented them unto Pharaoh.

Commentary

Genesis 47:2 records a pivotal moment in the biblical narrative of Joseph and his family in Egypt. After Joseph had revealed himself to his brothers and arranged for their father Jacob and the entire household to come to Egypt, this verse describes the formal introduction of a select group of his brethren to Pharaoh.

Context

This verse follows directly after Joseph informing Pharaoh of his family's arrival from the land of Canaan. The entire region was experiencing a severe famine, as prophesied and prepared for by Joseph (Genesis 41:29-30). Joseph, having risen to become the vizier of Egypt, was orchestrating the relocation of his family to ensure their survival and provide them with the best land available in Goshen. The presentation of these five men to Pharaoh was a crucial step in formalizing their presence and securing the necessary royal decree for their settlement and sustenance in Egypt.

Key Themes

  • Joseph's Strategic Leadership: Joseph carefully selected "five men" from his brethren, likely a representative and manageable number, to present before Pharaoh. This demonstrates his wisdom and understanding of court protocol, ensuring a favorable impression and outcome for his family.
  • Divine Providence: This encounter is part of God's overarching plan to preserve the lineage of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob during a time of great famine. The entire journey from Canaan to Egypt, and their establishment there, was divinely orchestrated, ultimately leading to the formation of the nation of Israel. As Joseph later affirmed, what men intended for evil, God intended for good.
  • Integration and Protection: Presenting his family to Pharaoh was essential for their formal acceptance and protection within Egypt. It paved the way for them to settle in Goshen, a fertile region suitable for their pastoral lifestyle, away from the main Egyptian population.

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew word for "presented" is Χ•Φ·Χ™Φ·ΦΌΧ¦Φ΅ΦΌΧ’ (vayyatstseg), which means "he caused to stand" or "he placed." This implies a formal act of introduction, bringing them into the presence of the king, signifying their official recognition and the importance of the occasion.

Practical Application

Genesis 47:2 reminds us of the importance of wise and thoughtful leadership, even in challenging circumstances. Joseph's actions ensured the well-being of his family, demonstrating foresight and careful planning. It also highlights God's faithfulness in providing for His people, often through human instruments and seemingly ordinary events. Even in times of scarcity or uncertainty, God's plan for preservation and blessing continues to unfold, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled and His people are sustained. We are called to trust in His providence and act wisely in our own spheres of influence, preparing for future needs and guiding those entrusted to our care.

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Cross-References

  • Acts 7:13

    And at the second [time] Joseph was made known to his brethren; and Joseph's kindred was made known unto Pharaoh.

  • Jude 1:24

    Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present [you] faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy,

  • Colossians 1:28

    Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

  • 2 Corinthians 4:14

    Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present [us] with you.
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