Genesis 47:16

And Joseph said, Give your cattle; and I will give you for your cattle, if money fail.

And Joseph {H3130} said {H559}, Give {H3051} your cattle {H4735}; and I will give {H5414} you for your cattle {H4735}, if money {H3701} fail {H656}.

Yosef replied, "Give me your livestock. If you don't have money, I will give you food in exchange for your livestock."

“Then bring me your livestock,” said Joseph. “Since the money is gone, I will sell you food in exchange for your livestock.”

And Joseph said, Give your cattle; and I will give you for your cattle, if money fail.

Commentary

Context

Genesis 47:16 occurs during the severe seven-year famine that gripped Egypt and the surrounding lands, as foretold by Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams. Joseph, who had previously risen to power as Pharaoh's chief administrator, had wisely stored up grain during the seven years of abundance. By this point in the famine, the people of Egypt and Canaan had exhausted their money buying grain from Joseph's storehouses (as stated in the preceding verse, Genesis 47:15). This verse marks the beginning of the second phase of Joseph's economic policy to sustain the population: bartering for food using livestock.

Key Themes

  • Resourceful Leadership: Joseph demonstrates exceptional foresight and adaptability. When one resource (money) runs out, he immediately pivots to another (cattle) to continue providing for the people and maintaining order during the crisis. This highlights his strategic management of the severe famine.
  • Progression of Dependence: The verse illustrates the deepening impact of the famine. Initially, people could buy food with money. Now, they are forced to give up their assets, starting with their most valuable movable property—their cattle—to survive. This sets the stage for further concessions, as seen in later verses where they offer their land and even themselves.
  • Stewardship and Survival: Joseph's actions are driven by the need to preserve life. His system, though increasingly demanding, ensures that the population does not starve, while also consolidating wealth and power under Pharaoh's control.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "if money fail" translates the Hebrew keseph afes (כֶּסֶף אָפֵס), which literally means "money ceased" or "money was gone." This emphasizes the complete and utter depletion of financial resources among the populace, necessitating a new form of exchange. It's a stark declaration of their financial destitution, making Joseph's offer of exchange for cattle a vital lifeline.

Practical Application

This verse offers several timeless lessons:

  • Adaptability in Crisis: Leaders, communities, and individuals must be prepared to adapt their strategies when initial plans or resources are exhausted. Rigidity in times of crisis can lead to greater suffering.
  • Value Beyond Currency: It reminds us that true wealth and survival are not always tied to monetary systems. In times of extreme scarcity, tangible assets like livestock, land, or skills become paramount for exchange and sustenance.
  • Resource Management: Joseph's example underscores the importance of wise resource management, both on a national scale and personally. Having diverse assets and contingency plans can be crucial for navigating unforeseen difficulties.
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Cross-References

  • Philippians 4:8 (2 votes)

    Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.

  • Colossians 4:5 (2 votes)

    ¶ Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:32 (2 votes)

    Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God:

  • Daniel 6:5 (2 votes)

    Then said these men, We shall not find any occasion against this Daniel, except we find [it] against him concerning the law of his God.

  • Daniel 6:7 (2 votes)

    All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.

  • Proverbs 12:17 (2 votes)

    ¶ [He that] speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit.