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Genesis 41:47 meaning

God provided richly in a time of plenty so that His people could endure the coming hardship.

In Genesis 41, Joseph—who lived from approximately 1914 BC to 1804 BC—served as Pharaoh’s second-in-command over the land of Egypt, a region in Northeast Africa well-known for the Nile River and its fertile banks. When he interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, Joseph predicted seven years of abundant harvest followed by seven years of severe famine. This prophecy prompted Pharaoh to entrust Joseph with the administration of managing Egypt’s crops and resources. Joseph’s foresight and leadership ensured the nation’s readiness for the coming years of scarcity. In that context, the scripture says, “During the seven years of plenty the land brought forth abundantly.” (Genesis 41:47)

“During the seven years of plenty the land brought forth abundantly.” (v.47) highlights the remarkable productivity of Egypt’s fields. Under Joseph’s careful stewardship, Egyptians were instructed to gather and store extra grain, ensuring that this surplus would sustain them when famine arrived. This outcome serves as a testimony to God’s faithfulness, demonstrating how divine provision lined up with Joseph’s obedient and wise leadership Luke 16:10).

The verse also underlines how abundance was ultimately orchestrated by God’s hand. Joseph’s adherence to Pharaoh’s commission, along with his previous experiences—which included time as a servant and a prisoner—equipped him to fulfill this monumental task. Like many instances in the Old Testament, this moment in Egyptian history points forward to God’s ultimate plan through Jesus Christ, whose teachings speak of spiritual abundance for those who trust and act faithfully John 10:10).

Genesis 41:47