Topical Bible: Famine: Pharaoh Forewarned of, in Dreams

◄ Famine: Pharaoh Forewarned of, in Dreams ►

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Topical Encyclopedia

The account of Pharaoh being forewarned of a coming famine through dreams is a significant narrative found in the Book of Genesis, chapters 41. This event underscores the sovereignty of God in revealing future events and His providential care in preparing for the preservation of life.

Context and Setting

The account unfolds in ancient Egypt, during the time when Joseph, the son of Jacob, was imprisoned. Joseph had been sold into slavery by his brothers and had risen to a position of trust in the house of Potiphar, only to be falsely accused and imprisoned. Despite his circumstances, Joseph remained faithful to God, and his ability to interpret dreams became known.

Pharaoh's Dreams

Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, experienced two troubling dreams that none of his magicians or wise men could interpret. In the first dream, Pharaoh saw seven healthy, well-fed cows emerge from the Nile, followed by seven gaunt and malnourished cows that devoured the healthy ones. In the second dream, he saw seven plump ears of grain on a single stalk, followed by seven thin and scorched ears that swallowed up the plump ones.

Joseph's Interpretation

Upon the recommendation of the chief cupbearer, who remembered Joseph's accurate interpretation of his own dream while in prison, Pharaoh summoned Joseph. Joseph, acknowledging that interpretations belong to God, explained the dreams to Pharaoh. He revealed that the dreams were one and the same, indicating what God was about to do. The seven healthy cows and seven plump ears of grain represented seven years of great abundance in Egypt. Conversely, the seven gaunt cows and seven thin ears of grain symbolized seven years of severe famine that would follow the years of plenty.

Scriptural Reference

Joseph's interpretation is recorded in Genesis 41:25-30 : "Then Joseph said to Pharaoh, 'The dreams of Pharaoh are one and the same. God has revealed to Pharaoh what He is about to do. The seven good cows are seven years, and the seven ripe heads of grain are seven years. The dreams have the same meaning. The seven thin, ugly cows that came up after them are seven years, and so are the seven worthless heads of grain scorched by the east wind—they are seven years of famine.'"

Divine Providence and Preparation

Joseph advised Pharaoh to appoint a discerning and wise man to oversee the land of Egypt and to store up grain during the seven years of abundance. This preparation would ensure that Egypt would have enough food during the years of famine. Pharaoh recognized the Spirit of God in Joseph and appointed him as second-in-command over Egypt, entrusting him with this critical task.

Theological Significance

This narrative highlights God's omniscience and His ability to communicate His plans through dreams. It also illustrates the importance of wisdom and discernment in leadership, as Joseph's prudent management not only saved Egypt but also surrounding nations from the devastating effects of the famine. The account of Pharaoh's dreams and Joseph's rise to power serves as a testament to God's faithfulness and His provision for His people, even in times of impending disaster.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 41:1
And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh dreamed: and, behold, he stood by the river.
Nave's Topical Index

Library

Use to be Made of the Doctrine of Providence.
... us with the means of preserving it, forewarned us of ... drought, and other injuries,
denounce barrenness, and thereby famine. ... smoke (Is.7:4). So Pharaoh, when he ...
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The Hebrews and the Philistines --Damascus
... Pharaoh at this time exercised no authority over this region, and they were, therefore,
no longer in fear of opposition from his troops; the latter had been ...
/.../chapter iiithe hebrews and the.htm