Genesis 47:26

KJV

And Joseph made it a law over the land of Egypt unto this day, [that] Pharaoh should have the fifth [part]; except the land of the priests only, [which] became not Pharaoh's.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Joseph {H3130} made {H7760} it a law {H2706} over the land {H127} of Egypt {H4714} unto this day {H3117}, that Pharaoh {H6547} should have the fifth {H2569} part; except {H7535} the land {H127} of the priests {H3548} only, which became not Pharaoh's {H6547}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yosef made it a law for the country of Egypt, valid to this day, that Pharaoh should have twenty percent. Only the property belonging to the priests did not become Pharaoh's.

Berean Standard Bible

So Joseph established a law that a fifth of the produce belongs to Pharaoh, and it is in effect in the land of Egypt to this day. Only the priests’ land does not belong to Pharaoh.

American Standard Version

And Joseph made it a statute concerning the land of Egypt unto this day, that Pharaoh should have the fifth; only the land of the priests alone became not Pharaoh’s.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 47:26 concludes the narrative of Joseph's famine administration in Egypt, establishing a lasting legal precedent that mandated a perpetual one-fifth (20%) tax on all agricultural produce for Pharaoh. This system, which endured "unto this day," solidified royal power and ensured continuous revenue, with the significant exception of the land belonging to the priests, which remained independent of royal ownership and taxation.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the culmination of Joseph's profound economic and social reforms during the final years of the seven-year famine, as detailed in [Genesis 47:13-25](/genesis/47-13-25 "Joseph's Economic Policies During the Famine"). Following the initial sale of money, livestock, and eventually the people themselves into servitude, the Egyptians, in their desperation, sold their land to Pharaoh in exchange for food. Joseph, acting as Pharaoh's chief administrator, then implemented a new system: he returned the land to the people as tenants, providing them with seed, but instituted a perpetual tax of twenty percent of their harvest to the crown. This verse summarizes the enduring nature of this policy, solidifying Pharaoh's absolute ownership of the land and the people's new status as royal tenants. It marks the conclusion of Joseph's administrative brilliance and sets the stage for the growth of the Israelite family in Goshen, as described in [Genesis 47:27](/genesis/47-27 "Israel's Prosperity in Goshen").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Ancient Egypt was a highly centralized agrarian society, with the Pharaoh at its apex, considered a divine king. Land ownership was intrinsically linked to power and sustenance. The famine described in Genesis was a catastrophic event that threatened the very fabric of Egyptian society. Joseph's policies, while seemingly harsh by modern standards, were a pragmatic response to an unprecedented crisis, designed to preserve life and consolidate power. The concept of a land tax was common in ancient Near Eastern empires, but Joseph's implementation of a uniform 20% tax, coupled with the state's ownership of all land, represented a significant restructuring. The exemption of the priests' land highlights their unique and powerful position in Egyptian society; they were a distinct class, often supported directly by the crown ([Genesis 47:22](/genesis/47-22 "Pharaoh's Provision for the Priests")), and their religious authority was intertwined with the stability of the state.
* **Key Themes:** Genesis 47:26 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It underscores the theme of **Divine Providence**, as God's wisdom, granted to Joseph ([Genesis 41:39](/genesis/41-39 "Joseph's God-Given Wisdom")), is the ultimate source of the policies that save Egypt and, crucially, preserve the nascent nation of Israel. The verse also highlights **Joseph's Exemplary Leadership and Stewardship**, demonstrating his administrative foresight and ability to manage a national crisis with profound long-term implications. Furthermore, it illustrates the **Centralization of Power** in ancient monarchies, showcasing how economic control over land and resources can consolidate royal authority. Finally, the specific exemption for the priests emphasizes the **Distinction of Sacred Institutions** within secular governance, a concept that recurs throughout the Old Testament, such as in the special provisions for the Levites in [Numbers 18](/numbers/18 "Numbers 18 - Duties of Priests and Levites").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **law (Hebrew, _chôq'_):** From H2706, meaning an enactment, appointment, decree, or statute. This term signifies a formal, binding ordinance established by authority. In this context, it emphasizes that Joseph's economic policy was not a temporary measure but a permanent legal framework, transforming the socio-economic structure of Egypt under Pharaoh's absolute rule. It speaks to the enduring nature and official status of the new land tenure system.
* **fifth (Hebrew, _chômesh'_):** From H2569, referring specifically to a fifth part or a fifth tax. This precise numerical designation highlights the specific economic burden placed upon the populace—a 20% share of their agricultural produce. It was a substantial portion, yet it was the condition under which the people regained access to their land and livelihood, transforming them from landowners into royal tenants. This tax became the primary source of revenue for the Pharaoh's treasury.
* **unto this day (Hebrew, _yôwm'_):** From H3117, meaning a day, often used figuratively for a space of time or perpetually. This phrase is a common literary device in the Old Testament, indicating the enduring impact and historical continuity of an event or custom. Here, it validates the historical account by asserting that Joseph's land policy remained in effect for a significant period after his time, potentially even up to the time the book of Genesis was compiled or transmitted, underscoring its profound and lasting restructuring of Egyptian society and economy.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And Joseph made it a law over the land of Egypt unto this day,"**: This clause establishes Joseph's pivotal role as the architect of a new, enduring legal and economic system for the entire nation of Egypt. Empowered by Pharaoh, Joseph's administrative genius is highlighted as he institutes a permanent policy, not merely a temporary famine relief measure. The phrase "unto this day" underscores the long-lasting impact and historical validation of this decree, indicating its continued relevance for generations beyond Joseph's immediate time.
* **"that Pharaoh should have the fifth [part];"**: This specifies the core of the new law: a mandatory 20% tax on all agricultural produce. This "fifth part" (Hebrew: *chomesh*) was the condition for the people to receive seed and cultivate the land, effectively making them tenants of Pharaoh. This policy centralized land ownership and economic power under the crown, ensuring a steady and substantial revenue stream for the royal treasury, crucial for national stability and future prosperity after the famine.
* **"except the land of the priests only, [which] became not Pharaoh's."**: This crucial exception highlights the unique and privileged status of the priestly class in ancient Egyptian society. The priests were distinct from the general populace; they were already supported directly by Pharaoh, receiving their provisions from the royal stores ([Genesis 47:22](/genesis/47-22 "Pharaoh's Provision for the Priests")). Therefore, their land was exempt from the new tax and remained their private property, signifying their distinct religious and social standing, their close ties to the royal household, and their vital role in the religious life of Egypt, which Pharaoh respected and maintained.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its significant message. The primary device is the **Legal Edict** itself, presented as a concise, declarative statement that formalizes a new societal structure. This direct, authoritative language emphasizes the finality and binding nature of Joseph's decree. The phrase "**unto this day**" functions as a **Historical Marker**, lending authenticity and enduring relevance to the narrative by asserting the long-term impact of Joseph's policy, implying its continued existence at the time of the text's composition. Finally, the verse utilizes **Contrast** by explicitly distinguishing the general populace, who became tenants subject to the tax, from the priestly class, who retained their land and exemption. This contrast highlights the unique social hierarchy and the special status afforded to religious institutions in ancient Egypt.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 47:26 offers profound insights into the interplay of divine providence, human leadership, and societal structure. Joseph's actions, though seemingly purely economic and political, are deeply rooted in God's overarching plan to preserve life and prepare for the future growth of Jacob's family. God's wisdom, granted to Joseph, enabled him to implement policies that saved Egypt and, by extension, the nascent nation of Israel. This passage exemplifies how God works through human leaders and even secular governmental structures to achieve His divine purposes, guiding events to fulfill His ultimate plan for His people. The centralization of power under Pharaoh, while a human construct, ultimately served God's purpose in providing a stable environment for the Israelites to multiply before their eventual exodus.

* [Genesis 41:39](/genesis/41-39 "Joseph's God-Given Wisdom")
* [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "God's Providential Plan Through Joseph")
* [1 Samuel 8:15](/1_samuel/8-15 "The King's Demands")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 47:26 offers profound insights into the interplay of leadership, economics, and divine purpose. Joseph's example teaches us about the critical importance of wise and just stewardship, especially when entrusted with the well-being of others during times of crisis. It highlights how governmental policies can profoundly shape a society's structure and future, underscoring the need for equitable and sustainable frameworks that balance the needs of the state with the welfare of its citizens. While Joseph's policy centralized power, it also provided a pathway to recovery and stability for a nation devastated by famine. For believers today, this passage reminds us that even in complex political and economic situations, God remains sovereign, orchestrating human events and using various agents to accomplish His overarching plans, often for the preservation and flourishing of His people. We are called to be wise stewards of the resources and influence God has given us, seeking the good of our communities and trusting in God's ultimate provision.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Joseph's administrative foresight in this passage challenge or affirm your understanding of wise leadership in times of crisis?**
* **In what ways can we, as individuals or communities, apply the principles of responsible stewardship and long-term planning demonstrated by Joseph?**
* **How does the concept of God working through secular systems and leaders (like Pharaoh and Joseph) impact your view of divine sovereignty in the world today?**

### FAQ

**Why was the tax exactly one-fifth (20%)?**

Answer: The "fifth part" (Hebrew: *chomesh*) was likely chosen by Joseph as a significant yet sustainable portion of the harvest. It was substantial enough to provide consistent revenue for Pharaoh and rebuild the national granaries, but not so burdensome as to stifle the people's ability to recover and thrive. It represented a fair exchange for the land and seed provided by Pharaoh during the famine, establishing a new economic covenant between the crown and its subjects. This percentage would have allowed the state to accumulate wealth and resources while still leaving the majority of the produce for the sustenance and economic recovery of the populace, striking a balance between royal power and societal welfare, a testament to Joseph's administrative wisdom as seen throughout [Genesis 41](/genesis/41 "Genesis 41 - Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dreams").

**Why were the priests exempt from this land tax?**

Answer: The priests were exempt because Pharaoh already provided for them directly from the royal stores, as mentioned in [Genesis 47:22](/genesis/47-22 "Pharaoh's Provision for the Priests"). Their livelihood was secured by the crown, indicating their unique and privileged position within Egyptian society. This exemption also reflects the respect and importance given to religious institutions in ancient Egypt, ensuring their stability and preventing them from becoming economically dependent on the general populace or subject to the same land-based taxation. Their sacred status and direct support from the crown meant they operated under a different economic model, one that preserved their distinct role in the kingdom.

**What does "unto this day" imply about Joseph's law?**

Answer: The phrase "unto this day" signifies the enduring and lasting impact of Joseph's economic policy. It suggests that the law requiring a one-fifth tax on agricultural produce, with the exception of priestly lands, remained in effect for a considerable period after Joseph's time, possibly even up to the time the book of Genesis was written. This highlights the profound and permanent restructuring of Egyptian society and economy that Joseph orchestrated, demonstrating the long-term consequences of his famine management and the stability it brought to the kingdom. It serves as a historical marker, validating the historical accuracy and lasting significance of the events described.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph, in his role as a wise and provident ruler who saves a nation from death and establishes a new order, serves as a powerful type of Christ. Just as Joseph, through his God-given wisdom, provided sustenance and established a new covenant with the people of Egypt, transforming their relationship with the land and the king, so too does Christ, the ultimate King and Provider, offer salvation and establish a new covenant with humanity. He is the true "Bread of Life" who came down from heaven to provide spiritual sustenance, rescuing us from the famine of sin and death ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). Through His ultimate sacrifice on the cross, Christ reclaims us as His own, establishing a new kingdom where we are His subjects, bought with a price ([1 Corinthians 6:19-20](/1_corinthians/6-19-20 "1 Corinthians 6:19-20 - Bought with a Price")). We owe Him not a material "fifth part," but our whole being, our lives, and our worship, in gratitude for His ultimate provision and redemption through the new and better covenant He mediates ([Hebrews 8:6](/hebrews/8-6 "Hebrews 8:6 - Christ, Mediator of a Better Covenant")). As the supreme Lord, to whom "every knee should bow" ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Every Knee Shall Bow to Jesus")), Christ establishes a spiritual economy of grace that transcends all earthly systems, securing for us an eternal inheritance.

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 47:22

Only the land of the priests bought he not; for the priests had a portion [assigned them] of Pharaoh, and did eat their portion which Pharaoh gave them: wherefore they sold not their lands.

Ezekiel 7:24

Wherefore I will bring the worst of the heathen, and they shall possess their houses: I will also make the pomp of the strong to cease; and their holy places shall be defiled.