The term "fatfleshed" appears in the context of the biblical narrative found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in the account of Pharaoh's dreams, which Joseph interprets. The word is used to describe the well-nourished and healthy cows that appear in Pharaoh's dream. This imagery is significant in the biblical text, as it contrasts with the subsequent appearance of lean and gaunt cows, symbolizing a period of abundance followed by famine.

Biblical Reference:

Genesis 41:1-4 : "After two full years had passed, Pharaoh had a dream: He was standing beside the Nile, when seven cows, sleek and fat, came up from the river and began to graze among the reeds. After them, seven other cows, sickly and thin, came up from the Nile and stood beside the well-fed cows on the bank of the river. And the cows that were sickly and thin devoured the seven sleek, well-fed cows. Then Pharaoh woke up."

In this passage, the "fatfleshed" cows represent a time of prosperity and plenty. The imagery of well-fed cattle is a common biblical symbol for abundance and divine blessing. In the agrarian society of ancient Egypt, cattle were a vital resource, and their condition was directly linked to the land's fertility and the people's well-being.

Theological Significance:

The use of "fatfleshed" in this context underscores the providence of God in the affairs of nations and individuals. Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dream reveals God's sovereign control over the cycles of abundance and scarcity. The seven years of plenty, represented by the "fatfleshed" cows, are a divine provision meant to prepare for the subsequent years of famine. This narrative highlights the importance of wisdom, foresight, and stewardship in managing resources.

Symbolism and Application:

In a broader theological sense, the "fatfleshed" cows can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual abundance and the blessings that come from living in accordance with God's will. Just as the physical abundance in Egypt required careful management and preparation for future challenges, spiritual abundance requires vigilance and faithfulness. Believers are called to recognize the seasons of blessing in their lives and to use those times to strengthen their faith and prepare for potential trials.

The account of the "fatfleshed" cows serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of life and the need for reliance on God's wisdom. It encourages believers to trust in God's provision and to seek His guidance in times of both prosperity and adversity.

Joseph and his Brethren
... river. And, behold, there came up out of the river seven kine, well favoured
and fatfleshed; and they fed in the reed-grass. And ...
/.../select masterpieces of biblical literature/i joseph and his brethren.htm

Fatfleshed (2 Occurrences)
...Fatfleshed (2 Occurrences). Genesis 41:2 And, behold, there came up out of the river
seven well favored kine and fatfleshed; and they fed in a meadow. (KJV). ...
/f/fatfleshed.htm - 6k

Kine (24 Occurrences)
... (DBY). Genesis 41:2 And, behold, there came up out of the river seven well favored
kine and fatfleshed; and they fed in a meadow. (KJV JPS ASV DBY YLT). ...
/k/kine.htm - 16k

Favored (19 Occurrences)
... (KJV ASV WBS). Genesis 41:2 And, behold, there came up out of the river seven well
favored kine and fatfleshed; and they fed in a meadow. (KJV ASV WBS). ...
/f/favored.htm - 12k

Meadow (8 Occurrences)
... Meadow (8 Occurrences). Genesis 41:2 And, behold, there came up out of the river
seven well favored kine and fatfleshed; and they fed in a meadow. (KJV WBS). ...
/m/meadow.htm - 12k

Fat-fleshed (2 Occurrences)
Fat-fleshed. Fatfleshed, Fat-fleshed. Father . Multi-Version Concordance
Fat-fleshed (2 Occurrences). ... Fatfleshed, Fat-fleshed. Father . Reference Bible
/f/fat-fleshed.htm - 7k

Fateful (1 Occurrence)

/f/fateful.htm - 6k

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