Old Testament
Genesis 47:25
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
They responded, "You have saved our lives! May we find favor in the eyes of my lord. We will serve Pharaoh."
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And they said, Thou hast saved our lives: let us find grace in the sight of my lord, and we will be Pharaoh’s servants.
What Genesis 47:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 47:25, the people express their gratitude to Joseph for saving them during a severe famine. They acknowledge that he has preserved their lives and humbly request to find favor in his eyes. This moment highlights their willingness to serve Pharaoh in exchange for their survival. The verse illustrates the themes of gratitude, servitude, and the importance of leadership during crises. The people's response reflects a deep appreciation for the help they received, showing how dire circumstances can lead to a recognition of authority and the need for community support. Their commitment to serve Pharaoh signifies a shift in their status, as they transition from being free individuals to becoming servants in exchange for security and sustenance. This interaction emphasizes the dynamics of power and dependency in times of need, as well as the human instinct to seek favor from those in authority when facing life-threatening situations.
How to apply Genesis 47:25 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize and express gratitude for the help we receive in difficult times. It reminds us of the importance of community and support, urging us to be willing to serve others in return for assistance. In our lives, we can foster relationships built on mutual aid and respect, especially during challenging circumstances.
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 47:25
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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 47:25 mean?
Genesis 47:25 captures the people's gratitude towards Joseph for saving them during a famine. They express their willingness to serve Pharaoh in exchange for their survival, highlighting themes of gratitude and servitude.
What is the significance of serving Pharaoh in Genesis 47:25?
Serving Pharaoh in Genesis 47:25 signifies a shift in the people's status from free individuals to servants, emphasizing their dependence on leadership for survival during a crisis.
What themes are present in Genesis 47:25?
Genesis 47:25 presents themes of gratitude, servitude, leadership, and community support, illustrating how dire circumstances can lead to a recognition of authority and the need for mutual aid.
How does Genesis 47:25 relate to community support?
In Genesis 47:25, the people's response to Joseph underscores the importance of community support during challenging times, as they acknowledge their reliance on leadership for sustenance and security.
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