What is the meaning of Genesis 47:13? There was no food, however, in all that region - The verse opens with an unqualified statement of lack. Joseph’s earlier warnings, based on Pharaoh’s dreams (Genesis 41:25–32), are now fulfilled in full view. - Scripture repeatedly shows that physical scarcity can serve God’s larger redemptive purposes (Deuteronomy 8:3; 1 Kings 17:1–7). - The absence of food underlines humanity’s dependence on the Lord rather than earthly abundance. As Psalm 104:27 affirms, “These all look to You to give them their food in due season.” because the famine was so severe - Genesis 41:56 already described the famine as “severe in all the lands,” and by Genesis 47:13 its intensity peaks. - Severity emphasizes that no human plan, apart from God’s direction through Joseph, could sustain life (Acts 7:11–12 echoes this). - The verse calls to mind later crises, such as the drought in Elijah’s day (James 5:17), where God again displayed His sovereignty in the midst of extreme need. the lands of Egypt and Canaan had been exhausted by the famine - Both Egypt, the political superpower, and Canaan, the promised homeland, stand emptied—showing the universal reach of judgment and testing (Romans 8:20–22 acknowledges creation’s groaning). - God positions Joseph to save not only Egypt but also Israel’s family, preserving the covenant line (Genesis 45:7; 50:20). - This exhaustion paves the way for Jacob’s household to settle in Goshen, fulfilling God’s word to Abraham about sojourning in a foreign land (Genesis 15:13–14). - The scene anticipates the ultimate Deliverer who will rescue from a far greater deprivation—spiritual death (John 6:35). summary Genesis 47:13 records the famine’s climax: total scarcity, escalating severity, and complete exhaustion of Egypt and Canaan. The verse highlights human dependence, divine sovereignty, and God’s unfolding plan to preserve His people through Joseph, foreshadowing the greater salvation to come in Christ. |
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