Genesis 47:14

And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, for the corn which they bought: and Joseph brought the money into Pharaoh's house.

And Joseph {H3130} gathered up {H3950} all the money {H3701} that was found {H4672} in the land {H776} of Egypt {H4714}, and in the land {H776} of Canaan {H3667}, for the corn {H7668} which they bought {H7666}: and Joseph {H3130} brought {H935} the money {H3701} into Pharaoh's {H6547} house {H1004}.

Yosef collected all the money there was in Egypt and Kena'an in exchange for the grain they bought, and put the money in Pharaoh's treasury.

Joseph collected all the money to be found in the land of Egypt and the land of Canaan in exchange for the grain they were buying, and he brought it into Pharaoh’s palace.

And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, for the grain which they bought: and Joseph brought the money into Pharaoh’s house.

Commentary

Context of Genesis 47:14

Genesis 47:14 is situated during the severe seven-year famine that afflicted all the lands, as foretold by Joseph. As Pharaoh's prime minister, Joseph had wisely prepared for this crisis by storing vast quantities of grain during the preceding seven years of plenty. By this point in the narrative, the famine has become so intense that people from both Egypt and surrounding regions, including Canaan (where Joseph's family had come from), were entirely dependent on Pharaoh's grain reserves. This verse details the initial phase of payment for this life-sustaining commodity: the collection of all available money.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Joseph's Astute Stewardship: The verse highlights Joseph's continued role as an incredibly effective administrator. His foresight, guided by God's wisdom, not only saved Egypt but also the surrounding nations from starvation. He managed the nation's resources meticulously, ensuring that even in the midst of a devastating famine, the government (Pharaoh's house) maintained control over the economy. This demonstrates a model of wise and responsible leadership.
  • Centralization of Wealth and Power: As money flowed into Pharaoh's treasury, it signifies the increasing consolidation of economic power under the throne. The people, desperate for food, willingly exchanged their wealth for survival, effectively transferring their assets to the state. This sets the stage for the subsequent phases where people would exchange livestock, land, and eventually their own labor for sustenance (as seen in Genesis 47:15-26).
  • The Value of Basic Necessities: The desperate exchange of all available money for "corn" (grain) underscores the fundamental truth that in times of crisis, basic necessities like food become the most valuable commodities, far surpassing accumulated wealth.

Linguistic Nuance

The term "corn" in the King James Version, particularly in this ancient context, refers to any type of grain, such as wheat or barley, which were staple crops in the ancient Near East. It does not refer to maize, which is commonly known as "corn" in modern English and originated in the Americas, unknown to the ancient world.

Practical Application and Reflection

Genesis 47:14 offers several enduring lessons for today. It emphasizes the critical importance of preparedness, whether for personal finances, national emergencies, or global crises. Joseph's actions serve as a powerful reminder of the value of strategic planning and sound economic principles, especially when facing unforeseen challenges. Furthermore, it highlights how true wealth during a crisis is not necessarily monetary but lies in access to fundamental resources, reminding us of the fragility of human systems and the ultimate reliance on God's divine provision and wisdom, which guides faithful stewards like Joseph.

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Cross-References

  • Genesis 41:56 (5 votes)

    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.

  • Luke 16:10 (3 votes)

    He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.

  • Luke 16:12 (3 votes)

    And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?

  • 1 Peter 4:10 (2 votes)

    As every man hath received the gift, [even so] minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.

  • 1 Corinthians 4:2 (2 votes)

    Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

  • Luke 16:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods.

  • Luke 16:2 (2 votes)

    And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward.