Old Testament
Genesis 41:31
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"The abundance will not even be remembered because of the famine that follows, for it will be extremely severe."
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And the plenty shall not be known in the land by reason of that famine following; for it shall be very grievous.
What Genesis 41:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dream, revealing that a time of great abundance in Egypt will be followed by a severe famine. The severity of the famine will be so intense that the memories of the previous plenty will fade away. This highlights the contrast between prosperity and hardship, emphasizing that times of plenty can quickly turn into times of need. The message serves as a warning to prepare for difficult times ahead, as the future can be unpredictable. The famine will be so grievous that it will overshadow the memories of the good times, illustrating the impact of hardship on people's lives. This verse underscores the importance of recognizing and preparing for the cycles of abundance and scarcity in life, reminding us that we should not take good times for granted, as they can be fleeting.
How to apply Genesis 41:31 to your life
This verse encourages us to prepare for difficult times during periods of abundance. It reminds us to be wise with our resources and to plan for the future, as circumstances can change unexpectedly. By being proactive, we can navigate life's ups and downs more effectively.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Pharaoh's Dreams (Genesis 41:1–36)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: Diego Delso, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 3.0. Source. Location: Tell es-Sultan, Jericho, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
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Keep studying Genesis 41:31
Related Bible verses
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 41:31 mean?
Genesis 41:31 means that the severe famine following a time of abundance will be so intense that people will forget the previous prosperity. It highlights the unpredictability of life and the importance of preparing for future hardships.
What is the significance of famine in Genesis 41:31?
The famine in Genesis 41:31 signifies a drastic change from plenty to scarcity, illustrating how quickly circumstances can shift. It serves as a reminder to be mindful of the cycles of abundance and hardship in life.
How does Genesis 41:31 relate to preparation?
Genesis 41:31 relates to preparation by emphasizing the need to plan for difficult times during periods of abundance. It encourages wise management of resources to better navigate future challenges.
What is the main message of Genesis 41:31?
The main message of Genesis 41:31 is that times of plenty can quickly turn into times of need, and the severity of future hardships can overshadow past blessings. It warns against taking good times for granted.
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