Old Testament
Genesis 46:31
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, Joseph is speaking to his brothers and the members of his father's household.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Joseph said to his brothers and his father's household, "I will go to Pharaoh and inform him, 'My brothers and my father's household, who were living in Canaan, have come to me.
And Joseph said unto his brethren, and unto his father’s house, I will go up, and shew Pharaoh, and say unto him, My brethren, and my father’s house, which were in the land of Canaan, are come unto me;
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph is speaking to his brothers and the members of his father's household. He expresses his intention to go to Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, to inform him about their arrival. Joseph's family had been living in Canaan, and now they have come to Egypt seeking refuge during a time of famine. This moment is significant as it marks the beginning of Joseph's efforts to reunite his family and provide for them. Joseph's role as a mediator between his family and Pharaoh highlights his position of power and responsibility in Egypt. He is not only concerned about his own well-being but also about the welfare of his family, showing his loyalty and love for them. This interaction sets the stage for the eventual settlement of the Israelites in Egypt, which has profound implications for their future as a people. Explore related leadership.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 46:31 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of family connections and the responsibility we have to care for our loved ones. Just as Joseph sought to provide for his family, we should also look for ways to support and help those we care about, especially in times of need.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 46:31 mean?
Genesis 46:31 shows Joseph telling his brothers and family that he will inform Pharaoh about their arrival in Egypt. This verse highlights Joseph's role as a mediator and protector for his family during a time of famine.
What is the significance of Joseph's actions in Genesis 46:31?
Joseph's actions in Genesis 46:31 are significant because they mark the beginning of his efforts to reunite and provide for his family. His willingness to approach Pharaoh demonstrates his loyalty and responsibility towards his loved ones.
What does the phrase 'my father's household' refer to in Genesis 46:31?
In Genesis 46:31, 'my father's household' refers to Joseph's entire family, including his brothers and their families, who had come from Canaan to seek refuge in Egypt.
How does Genesis 46:31 relate to the theme of family support?
Genesis 46:31 illustrates the theme of family support as Joseph takes the initiative to ensure his family's safety and well-being in Egypt, highlighting the importance of caring for loved ones in difficult times.
The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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