Topical Encyclopedia Pharaoh, the title given to the monarchs of ancient Egypt, plays a significant role in the biblical narrative, particularly during the time of the patriarch Abraham. The term "Pharaoh" itself is derived from the Egyptian word "per-aa," meaning "great house," and was used to denote the king of Egypt. In the context of the Bible, Pharaoh is not identified by a personal name but is recognized by his title, which signifies his supreme authority and divine status in Egyptian society.Biblical Account: The primary biblical account involving Pharaoh during the time of Abraham is found in Genesis 12:10-20. This passage describes a period of famine in Canaan, prompting Abram (later named Abraham) to journey to Egypt with his wife Sarai (later named Sarah) to seek sustenance. Aware of Sarai's beauty and fearing for his life, Abram instructs her to claim she is his sister, not his wife. This deception leads to Sarai being taken into Pharaoh's palace, as Pharaoh believes her to be unmarried. The Berean Standard Bible recounts this event as follows: "When Abram entered Egypt, the Egyptians saw that the woman was very beautiful. When Pharaoh’s officials saw her, they praised her to Pharaoh, and the woman was taken into the palace of Pharaoh" (Genesis 12:14-15). As a result, Pharaoh treats Abram well for Sarai's sake, bestowing upon him livestock and servants. However, the Lord intervenes by afflicting Pharaoh and his household with severe plagues because of Sarai. Realizing the truth, Pharaoh confronts Abram: "What have you done to me?" he said. "Why didn’t you tell me she was your wife?" (Genesis 12:18). Pharaoh then orders Abram to take Sarai and leave Egypt, providing them with safe passage and allowing them to retain the wealth they had acquired. Historical and Cultural Context: The identity of the Pharaoh during Abraham's time is not specified in the biblical text, and historical records do not provide a definitive match. The events described in Genesis are traditionally dated to the early second millennium BC, a period corresponding to Egypt's Middle Kingdom. This era was characterized by a centralized government, significant architectural achievements, and extensive trade networks, which might explain the wealth and power attributed to Pharaoh in the narrative. Pharaohs were considered divine or semi-divine figures, believed to be the earthly embodiment of the god Horus and the intermediary between the gods and the people. This divine status is reflected in the biblical account, where Pharaoh's actions and decisions have significant consequences for Abram and Sarai. Theological Significance: The encounter between Abram and Pharaoh highlights several theological themes. Firstly, it underscores God's sovereignty and protection over His chosen people. Despite Abram's deception, God intervenes to preserve Sarai's honor and ensure the fulfillment of His covenant promises to Abram. The plagues inflicted upon Pharaoh's household serve as a divine warning and a demonstration of God's power over the nations. Secondly, the narrative illustrates the moral complexities and human frailties of the patriarchs. Abram's fear and lack of faith lead him to deceive Pharaoh, yet God's grace prevails, turning a potentially disastrous situation into one that ultimately benefits Abram materially and spiritually. Lastly, the account foreshadows future interactions between the Israelites and Egypt, setting a precedent for God's deliverance of His people from foreign oppression. The themes of divine intervention, protection, and the fulfillment of God's promises resonate throughout the biblical narrative, culminating in the Exodus account. In summary, the Pharaoh of Abraham's time serves as a pivotal figure in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, illustrating the interplay between divine providence and human agency in the biblical narrative. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 12:14-20And it came to pass, that, when Abram was come into Egypt, the Egyptians beheld the woman that she was very fair. Nave's Topical Index Psalm 105:14 Library From Egypt to Sinai. Acts VII Egypt. The Hardening in the Sacred Scripture. Evil Thoughts. The Call of Moses The Voice from the Bush The History after the Flood. The Secret of Its Greatness How Solomon Fortified the City of Jerusalem, and Built Great ... Resources Who was the Pharaoh of the Exodus? | GotQuestions.orgWhy did God punish Pharaoh for Abram's lie (Genesis 12:17)? | GotQuestions.org Why did Pharaoh give Joseph so much power? | GotQuestions.org Pharaoh: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Pharaoh: At the Time of Hezekiah Pharaoh: Father-In-Law of Mered Pharaoh: Father-In-Law of Solomon Pharaoh: King of Egypt at the Time of Abraham Pharaoh: Pharaoh-Hophra: Prophecies Concerning Pharaoh: Pharaoh-Necho: His Invasion of Assyria, Josiah's Death Pharaoh: Ruler of Egypt at the Time of David Related Terms Pharaoh-nechoh (3 Occurrences) |
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