Old Testament
Genesis 41:47
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During the seven years of abundance, the land produced plentifully.
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And in the seven plenteous years the earth brought forth by handfuls.
What Genesis 41:47 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 41:47, we learn about a time of great abundance in Egypt, where the land produced an overwhelming amount of crops during seven years of plenty. This period was marked by a bountiful harvest, indicating that the earth yielded more than usual, providing enough food for the people. The phrase 'brought forth by handfuls' suggests that the harvest was so plentiful that it was easy to gather large amounts of grain and produce. This abundance was significant because it set the stage for the subsequent years of famine, highlighting the importance of preparation and foresight. The story emphasizes how God can bless a land with prosperity, but it also serves as a reminder of the need to manage resources wisely and prepare for future challenges. The abundance experienced during these years was not just a blessing but also a responsibility to ensure that the people would be sustained during the lean years that followed.
How to apply Genesis 41:47 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of recognizing and preparing for times of abundance. Just as Egypt had to plan for the future, we should manage our resources wisely during prosperous times to ensure we are ready for potential hardships ahead. Being proactive can help us navigate life's challenges more effectively.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: The Years of Plenty (Genesis 41:47–57)
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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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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 41:47 mean?
Genesis 41:47 describes a period in Egypt where the land produced an extraordinary amount of crops during seven years of abundance. This verse highlights the significance of this plentiful harvest, which was crucial for preparing for the upcoming years of famine.
What is the significance of abundance in Genesis 41:47?
The abundance mentioned in Genesis 41:47 signifies God's blessing on the land, allowing it to yield more crops than usual. This abundance not only provided food for the people but also served as a reminder of the importance of planning for future challenges.
What does 'brought forth by handfuls' mean in Genesis 41:47?
The phrase 'brought forth by handfuls' in Genesis 41:47 indicates that the harvest was so plentiful that it was easy to gather large amounts of grain and produce. It emphasizes the overwhelming nature of the crop yield during the seven years of abundance.
How does Genesis 41:47 relate to resource management?
Genesis 41:47 illustrates the need for wise resource management during times of abundance. The plentiful harvest served as a reminder for the people to prepare and store food for the lean years that would follow.
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