Old Testament
Genesis 47:23
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 addresses the people of Egypt during a time of famine.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Joseph told the people, "Today I have purchased you and your land for Pharaoh. Here is seed for you. Go and plant your fields."
Then Joseph said unto the people, Behold, I have bought you this day and your land for Pharaoh: lo, here is seed for you, and ye shall sow the land.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph addresses the people of Egypt during a time of famine. He informs them that he has bought them and their land for Pharaoh, meaning they are now under Pharaoh's control. To help them survive, Joseph provides them with seed so they can plant crops and sustain themselves. This act shows Joseph's leadership and care for the people, ensuring they have the means to feed themselves despite the dire circumstances. By giving them seed, he empowers them to work the land and regain some independence, even while they are in servitude. This moment highlights the importance of resource management and the role of leadership in times of crisis, as Joseph not only secures Pharaoh's interests but also addresses the immediate needs of the people.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 47:23 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of providing for others in times of need. Just as Joseph provided seed to the people, we can look for ways to support those around us, whether through sharing resources, offering help, or empowering others to take action in their own lives. Acts of kindness can make a significant difference.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joseph mean by buying the people and their land?
In Genesis 47:23, Joseph explains that he has purchased the people and their land for Pharaoh during a severe famine. This means that the people are now under Pharaoh's control, and they have become his servants. Joseph's actions reflect a strategic move to ensure the survival of the population while also securing Pharaoh's interests in the land.
How does Joseph's provision of seed impact the people?
By providing seed to the people, Joseph empowers them to cultivate their land and grow their own food. This act not only helps them survive the famine but also allows them to regain some autonomy, even while they are in servitude. It illustrates the importance of resource management and leadership in crisis situations.
What leadership qualities does Joseph demonstrate in this verse?
Joseph demonstrates several key leadership qualities in Genesis 47:23, including foresight, compassion, and resourcefulness. He recognizes the dire situation of the people and takes decisive action to provide for their needs. By supplying them with seed, he not only addresses their immediate survival but also encourages self-sufficiency, showcasing effective leadership in challenging times.
What lessons can we learn from Joseph's actions in this verse?
Joseph's actions in Genesis 47:23 teach us the importance of supporting others during difficult times. His provision of seed highlights the value of sharing resources and empowering those in need. We can apply this lesson by looking for ways to help others, whether through direct assistance or by enabling them to take action in their own lives.
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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