Old Testament
Genesis 47:20
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, who was appointed by Pharaoh to manage the food crisis during a severe famine, takes control of all the farmland in Egypt.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
So Joseph acquired all the farmland in Egypt for Pharaoh. Every Egyptian sold their fields because the famine had overpowered them. In this way, the land became Pharaoh's property.
And Joseph bought all the land of Egypt for Pharaoh; for the Egyptians sold every man his field, because the famine prevailed over them: so the land became Pharaoh’s.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph, who was appointed by Pharaoh to manage the food crisis during a severe famine, takes control of all the farmland in Egypt. The famine was so devastating that the Egyptians had no choice but to sell their fields to survive. As a result, the land that once belonged to the people now became the property of Pharaoh. This act illustrates the extreme measures people will take in times of desperation and highlights Joseph's role as a shrewd administrator. By acquiring the land, Joseph not only secured resources for Pharaoh but also ensured that the people had food to eat, albeit at the cost of their land ownership. This situation reflects the broader themes of survival, power dynamics, and the impact of famine on society. Joseph's actions set the stage for the future governance of Egypt and the relationship between the Pharaoh and the people. Explore related suffering.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 47:20 to your life
This verse reminds us of the importance of wise leadership during crises. It encourages us to consider how we can support those in need during difficult times, ensuring that resources are managed effectively and compassionately. We should also reflect on our own priorities and values when faced with challenges.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 47:20 mean?
Genesis 47:20 describes how Joseph, during a severe famine, acquired all the farmland in Egypt for Pharaoh. The Egyptians sold their fields out of desperation, leading to the land becoming Pharaoh's property.
What is the significance of land ownership in Genesis 47:20?
The land ownership shift in Genesis 47:20 illustrates the extreme measures people take during crises. It highlights how the famine forced Egyptians to sell their land, changing the power dynamics between the Pharaoh and the people.
What does the famine represent in Genesis 47:20?
In Genesis 47:20, the famine represents a time of desperation and survival. It drives the Egyptians to sell their fields, showing how dire circumstances can lead to significant changes in society and governance.
How does Joseph's role in Genesis 47:20 impact Egypt?
Joseph's role in Genesis 47:20 impacts Egypt by consolidating land under Pharaoh's control, ensuring food security during the famine. His actions demonstrate effective administration in crisis management.
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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