Old Testament
Genesis 47:24
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
"At harvest time, you must give one-fifth to Pharaoh. The remaining four-fifths will be yours — for planting your fields, for feeding yourselves and your households, and for feeding your children."
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And it shall come to pass in the increase, that ye shall give the fifth part unto Pharaoh, and four parts shall be your own, for seed of the field, and for your food, and for them of your households, and for food for your little ones.
What Genesis 47:24 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 47:24, Joseph instructs the people of Egypt on how to manage their harvest during a time of famine. He establishes a system where they must give one-fifth of their harvest to Pharaoh, which serves as a tax or tribute. The remaining four-fifths is theirs to keep, allowing them to sustain themselves, plant for future crops, and provide for their families, including their children. This arrangement ensures that the Pharaoh has resources to manage the crisis while also allowing the people to maintain their livelihoods. It reflects a balance between governance and personal sustenance, emphasizing the importance of contributing to the common good while also ensuring individual needs are met. This verse highlights the principles of stewardship and responsibility in times of scarcity, showing how a structured approach can help communities survive difficult periods.
How to apply Genesis 47:24 to your life
This verse teaches us the importance of contributing to the greater good while also taking care of our own needs. In our lives, we can apply this by being generous with our resources, supporting our communities, and ensuring we also provide for our families.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: The Famine in Egypt (Genesis 47:13–26)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725043). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nablus and Mount Gerizim, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Keep studying Genesis 47:24
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 47:24 mean?
Genesis 47:24 explains Joseph's instructions to the Egyptians during a famine, requiring them to give one-fifth of their harvest to Pharaoh while keeping four-fifths for their own needs. This system ensures that the Pharaoh has resources to manage the crisis while allowing the people to sustain themselves and their families.
What is the significance of giving one-fifth to Pharaoh in Genesis 47:24?
Giving one-fifth to Pharaoh represents a form of tax or tribute during a time of scarcity, allowing the government to maintain stability and resources. It reflects a balance between supporting leadership and ensuring that individuals can provide for their own households.
How does Genesis 47:24 relate to stewardship?
Genesis 47:24 highlights stewardship by showing the importance of managing resources wisely during difficult times. The verse emphasizes the need to contribute to the common good while also ensuring personal and family sustenance.
What is the practical application of Genesis 47:24 today?
The practical application of Genesis 47:24 is about balancing personal needs with community support. It encourages generosity and responsible resource management, reminding us to contribute to our communities while also caring for our families.
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