The Second Dream Fulfilled refers to the realization of Joseph's prophetic dreams, as recorded in the Book of Genesis. Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob and the firstborn of Rachel, is a central figure in the narrative of Genesis, chapters 37 through 50. His account is one of divine providence, betrayal, and eventual exaltation, which serves as a testament to God's sovereign plan and faithfulness.

Joseph's Dreams

Joseph's journey begins with two significant dreams that he shares with his family. In the first dream, Joseph sees himself and his brothers binding sheaves in the field. His sheaf stands upright while the sheaves of his brothers gather around and bow down to it (Genesis 37:7). This dream suggests Joseph's future rise to a position of authority over his brothers.

The second dream, which is the focus of this entry, is even more striking. Joseph dreams that the sun, the moon, and eleven stars are bowing down to him (Genesis 37:9). This dream implies not only his brothers but also his parents will acknowledge his preeminence. Jacob, his father, rebukes him, asking, "Will your mother and I and your brothers actually come and bow down to the ground before you?" (Genesis 37:10). Despite the rebuke, Jacob keeps the matter in mind, indicating a recognition of its potential significance.

The Path to Fulfillment

Joseph's dreams set the stage for a series of events that lead to their fulfillment. His brothers, fueled by jealousy, sell him into slavery, and he is taken to Egypt. There, Joseph endures trials and tribulations, including false accusations and imprisonment. However, God's favor remains with him, and he rises to prominence by interpreting Pharaoh's dreams, which foretell seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine (Genesis 41:25-30).

Pharaoh appoints Joseph as the governor of Egypt, second only to himself, to oversee the land's preparation for the coming famine. Joseph's wisdom and leadership save Egypt and surrounding nations from starvation.

The Fulfillment of the Second Dream

The famine eventually affects Canaan, where Joseph's family resides. Jacob sends his sons to Egypt to buy grain. Unbeknownst to them, they must deal with Joseph, whom they do not recognize. In a dramatic series of events, Joseph tests his brothers' character and ultimately reveals his identity to them. The brothers, along with Jacob, come to Egypt, fulfilling the prophetic imagery of the second dream.

Genesis 42:6 states, "Now Joseph was the ruler of the land; he was the one who sold grain to all its people. So when Joseph’s brothers arrived, they bowed down to him with their faces to the ground." This act of bowing fulfills the dream of the eleven stars. Later, when Jacob and the entire family move to Egypt, the dream of the sun and moon bowing is realized as well.

Significance

The fulfillment of Joseph's second dream underscores the themes of divine sovereignty and redemption. Despite human intentions for evil, God's purposes prevail, as Joseph himself acknowledges: "You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives" (Genesis 50:20). Joseph's account is a powerful reminder of God's ability to bring about His plans through the most unlikely circumstances, ensuring the preservation and prosperity of His chosen people.