Genesis 47:26

Commentary on Genesis 47:26 (KJV)

Genesis 47:26 reads: "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."

Context

This verse concludes the narrative of Joseph's remarkable administration during the severe seven-year famine in Egypt. After the people had exhausted their money, livestock, and eventually their own persons, they sold their land to Pharaoh in exchange for food and seed. Joseph, acting as Pharaoh's chief administrator, then implemented a new system: he returned the land to the people but instituted a permanent tax of one-fifth (20%) of their produce to Pharaoh. This established a lasting economic structure for the nation, solidifying Pharaoh's power and ensuring a continuous revenue stream for the crown.

Key Themes

• Joseph's Statesmanship and Wisdom: This verse highlights Joseph's extraordinary administrative skills and foresight. He not only saved Egypt from starvation but also established a sustainable economic policy that benefited Pharaoh and provided a framework for the people to recover and thrive under the new system. This demonstrates the practical application of the wisdom God had granted him, as seen earlier in Genesis 41:39.
• Pharaoh's Centralized Power: Through Joseph's policy, Pharaoh became the ultimate landowner, immensely increasing his wealth and authority over the entire nation. The "fifth part" became a perpetual tribute, underscoring the absolute monarchy's control over the land and its resources.
• The Priests' Exemption: The exception for the land of the priests reveals their unique and privileged position in ancient Egyptian society. Pharaoh already provided for them directly, indicating their close ties to the royal household and religious institutions. This exemption prevented them from falling under the same economic subjugation as the general populace.
• Divine Providence: Underlying Joseph's actions is the overarching theme of God's providential hand, using a human leader to preserve many lives and prepare for the future growth of Jacob's family, as Joseph himself would later articulate in Genesis 50:20.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the fifth part" is a direct translation of the Hebrew word chomesh (חֹמֶשׁ), which precisely means one-fifth or 20%. This was a significant and enduring tax, a substantial portion of the produce, yet it was a condition under which the people regained their land and livelihood after the famine.

Practical Application

Genesis 47:26 offers insights into ancient economic systems and the role of leadership in times of crisis. For us today, it can inspire reflection on:

• Wise Stewardship: Joseph's example teaches us about responsible management of resources and power, especially when entrusted with the well-being of others.
• Government's Role: It illustrates how governmental policies can profoundly impact society, for better or worse, and the importance of just and sustainable economic frameworks.
• God's Sovereignty: Even in complex political and economic situations, God works through human agents to accomplish His purposes, guiding events to fulfill His ultimate plan for His people.