Old Testament
Genesis 41:55
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When all of Egypt began to feel the hunger, the people cried out to Pharaoh for food. Pharaoh told all the Egyptians, "Go to Joseph and do whatever he tells you."
Compare translations
And when all the land of Egypt was famished, the people cried to Pharaoh for bread: and Pharaoh said unto all the Egyptians, Go unto Joseph; what he saith to you, do.
What Genesis 41:55 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a critical moment during a severe famine in Egypt. The people, desperate for food, turn to Pharaoh for help. Pharaoh, recognizing Joseph's wisdom and ability to manage the crisis, directs the people to seek Joseph's guidance. This shows Pharaoh's trust in Joseph's leadership and the importance of following wise counsel during difficult times. Joseph had previously interpreted Pharaoh's dreams and prepared for this famine, demonstrating foresight and planning. The verse highlights the role of leadership in times of crisis and the necessity of listening to those who are knowledgeable and capable. It also illustrates the desperation of the people and their reliance on authority figures for sustenance and direction. This moment sets the stage for Joseph's further involvement in managing the resources of Egypt and providing for the people during the famine, showcasing his pivotal role in the survival of the nation.
How to apply Genesis 41:55 to your life
In times of crisis, it is essential to seek guidance from those who are knowledgeable and experienced. Just as the Egyptians turned to Joseph for help, we should look for wise counsel in our own lives. This can lead to better decision-making and effective solutions during challenging situations.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: The Years of Plenty (Genesis 41:47–57)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jericho
The city of palm trees, whose walls fell in Joshua's day.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Genesis 41:55
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Genesis 41:55
Related Bible verses
Key themes
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 41:55 mean?
Genesis 41:55 describes a time of severe famine in Egypt when the people turned to Pharaoh for food. Pharaoh, recognizing Joseph's ability to manage the crisis, instructed the people to seek Joseph's guidance, highlighting the importance of wise leadership in difficult times.
What is the significance of Joseph in Genesis 41:55?
In Genesis 41:55, Joseph is significant because he is the one Pharaoh trusts to handle the famine crisis. His previous interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams and preparation for the famine demonstrate his wisdom and leadership skills.
What does Pharaoh's response in Genesis 41:55 indicate?
Pharaoh's response in Genesis 41:55 indicates his trust in Joseph's capabilities. By directing the people to Joseph, Pharaoh acknowledges the importance of following knowledgeable leaders during a crisis.
What themes are present in Genesis 41:55?
Genesis 41:55 presents themes of famine, leadership, wisdom, trust, and crisis management. It illustrates how people rely on authority figures for guidance during desperate times.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.