Genesis 47:24

At harvest time, you are to give a fifth of it to Pharaoh, and four-fifths will be yours as seed for the field and food for yourselves and your households and children."

Study Bible

At harvest time
This phrase indicates a specific period in the agricultural cycle, crucial in ancient Egypt, where the Nile's flooding determined planting and harvesting times. The harvest was a time of both celebration and obligation, as it was when the fruits of labor were gathered and debts or taxes were settled.

you are to give a fifth of it to Pharaoh
This directive reflects the economic system established by Joseph during the famine. The 20% tax was a form of tribute to Pharaoh, ensuring the centralization of resources. This system highlights Joseph's administrative skills and the consolidation of power in Egypt, which was common in ancient Near Eastern monarchies. It also prefigures the concept of tithing, a practice later formalized in Mosaic Law.

and four-fifths will be yours
The allocation of the remaining 80% to the people demonstrates a balance between state control and personal sustenance. This division ensured that the people had enough resources to sustain themselves and continue farming, reflecting a pragmatic approach to governance and resource management.

as seed for the field
This portion was essential for future planting, ensuring the continuity of agricultural productivity. It underscores the importance of planning and foresight, principles that are echoed in Proverbs 6:6-8, which advises diligence and preparation.

and food for yourselves
This phrase emphasizes the provision for personal sustenance. It reflects the biblical principle of God providing for His people, as seen in Matthew 6:11, where Jesus teaches to pray for daily bread, symbolizing trust in God's provision.

and your households
The mention of households indicates the broader family unit, including extended family and servants, which was the basic social structure in ancient times. This reflects the biblical emphasis on family responsibility and care, as seen in 1 Timothy 5:8.

and children
Children are highlighted as a specific group to be provided for, underscoring their importance in biblical narratives. This reflects the value placed on future generations, as seen in Psalm 127:3, which describes children as a heritage from the Lord.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob who rose to power in Egypt. He is the one implementing the policy of giving a fifth of the harvest to Pharaoh.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt who benefits from Joseph's management of the famine crisis.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph serves as a high-ranking official and where the Israelites find refuge during the famine.

4. The Egyptians
The people who are subject to the policy of giving a portion of their harvest to Pharaoh.

5. Famine
The severe shortage of food that led to Joseph's policy to ensure survival and prosperity in Egypt.

Teaching Points

Stewardship and Responsibility
Joseph's policy teaches us about wise stewardship and the importance of planning for the future. As Christians, we are called to manage our resources responsibly.

Submission to Authority
The Egyptians' compliance with Joseph's policy reflects the biblical principle of submitting to authority, as long as it does not contradict God's commands.

Provision and Trust
This passage reminds us of God's provision through difficult times. Just as Joseph provided for Egypt, we can trust God to provide for our needs.

Generosity and Sharing
The allocation of a portion of the harvest to Pharaoh can be seen as a form of giving. Christians are encouraged to be generous and share their blessings with others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's management of the famine in Egypt demonstrate principles of wise stewardship that we can apply in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the policy of giving a fifth of the harvest to Pharaoh reflect the biblical principle of submission to authority?

3. How can we see God's provision in our lives during times of scarcity, similar to how He provided for Egypt through Joseph?

4. What are some practical ways we can practice generosity and sharing in our communities today?

5. How does the concept of setting aside a portion of our resources for a higher purpose relate to the New Testament teachings on giving and tithing?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 41
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's rise to power and the interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which led to the preparation for the famine.

Leviticus 27
Discusses the concept of tithing and giving a portion of one's produce to God, similar to the giving of a fifth to Pharaoh.

Romans 13
Talks about the role of government and the Christian's responsibility to submit to governing authorities, which can be related to the Egyptians' submission to Pharaoh's rule.

Proverbs 3:9-10
Encourages honoring God with one's wealth, which parallels the idea of setting aside a portion of one's increase for a higher purpose.