Genesis 40:8

"We both had dreams," they replied, "but there is no one to interpret them." Then Joseph said to them, "Don't interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams."

Study Bible

We both had dreams
In the ancient Near Eastern context, dreams were often considered significant, believed to be messages from the divine. The Hebrew word for "dreams" is "ḥălôm," which frequently appears in the Old Testament as a means through which God communicates His will or future events. This phrase sets the stage for the unfolding of God's providence in Joseph's life, as dreams have been a recurring theme in his story, starting with his own dreams in Genesis 37.

they replied
The response of the cupbearer and the baker indicates their shared experience and mutual concern. In the narrative, their reply signifies a moment of vulnerability and openness, as they seek understanding and clarity. This interaction highlights the human quest for meaning and the need for divine insight, which Joseph is about to provide.

but there is no one to interpret them
The absence of an interpreter underscores the limitations of human wisdom and the need for divine intervention. In the Egyptian context, professional dream interpreters were common, yet here, in the confines of prison, they are unavailable. This sets the stage for Joseph, who, through God's wisdom, will fulfill this role, demonstrating that true interpretation comes from God alone.

Then Joseph said to them
Joseph's response is immediate and confident, reflecting his faith and reliance on God. His willingness to engage with the cupbearer and baker shows his compassionate nature and readiness to serve others, even in his own time of distress. This moment is pivotal, as it marks the beginning of Joseph's rise to prominence through the use of his God-given gift.

Do not interpretations belong to God?
Joseph's rhetorical question emphasizes the sovereignty of God over all mysteries and the divine source of true wisdom. The Hebrew word for "interpretations" is "pittārôn," which implies a solution or explanation. By attributing the ability to interpret dreams to God, Joseph acknowledges that human understanding is limited without divine revelation, reinforcing the biblical theme of God's omniscience.

Tell me your dreams
Joseph invites the cupbearer and baker to share their dreams, positioning himself as a vessel through which God can work. This invitation is an act of faith, as Joseph trusts that God will provide the necessary insight. It also reflects Joseph's humility and willingness to be used by God, despite his own uncertain circumstances. This phrase encapsulates the essence of Joseph's character—a man of faith, service, and reliance on God.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew man who was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt. He is currently imprisoned but remains faithful to God and is given the ability to interpret dreams.

2. Cupbearer and Baker
Two officials of Pharaoh who were imprisoned with Joseph. They each had a dream that troubled them, leading to the events of this passage.

3. Prison in Egypt
The setting of this passage, where Joseph is held and where he encounters the cupbearer and baker.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God for Wisdom
Joseph's response highlights the importance of seeking God's wisdom in all matters, recognizing that true understanding comes from Him.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Despite his circumstances, Joseph remains faithful and uses his God-given gifts to serve others, demonstrating integrity and trust in God's plan.

God's Sovereignty in Interpretation
Joseph acknowledges that interpretations belong to God, reminding us of His ultimate authority and control over all things.

Using Spiritual Gifts for God's Glory
Joseph uses his gift of interpretation to help others, setting an example of how we should use our spiritual gifts to serve and glorify God.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to the cupbearer and baker demonstrate his faith in God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when faced with uncertainty?

2. In what ways does Joseph's ability to interpret dreams reflect the spiritual gifts mentioned in 1 Corinthians 12, and how can we identify and use our own gifts for God's purposes?

3. How does the account of Joseph in Genesis 40:8 encourage us to remain faithful and trust in God's plan, even when we are in difficult situations?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's acknowledgment that interpretations belong to God about seeking wisdom and understanding in our daily lives?

5. How does the theme of God's sovereignty in Genesis 40:8 connect with other biblical accounts, such as Daniel's account, and what does this teach us about God's role in guiding our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Daniel 2
Similar to Joseph, Daniel interprets dreams for King Nebuchadnezzar, emphasizing that interpretations belong to God.

1 Corinthians 12
Discusses spiritual gifts, including wisdom and knowledge, which can be seen in Joseph's ability to interpret dreams.

James 1:5
Encourages believers to seek wisdom from God, who gives generously, reflecting Joseph's reliance on God for interpretation.