Topical Bible: The Ox: Kine: (Well Favoured) Years of Plenty

◄ The Ox: Kine: (Well Favoured) Years of Plenty ►

Jump to: Torrey's • Library • Subtopics • Terms

Topical Encyclopedia

The ox, a symbol of strength and productivity, holds significant importance in biblical narratives, particularly in the context of agricultural abundance and divine provision. The term "kine" is an archaic word for cows or cattle, often used in the King James Version of the Bible. The story of the "well-favoured" kine is most prominently featured in the account of Joseph in Egypt, as recorded in the Book of Genesis.

Biblical Account

In Genesis 41, Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, experiences a perplexing dream that none of his magicians or wise men can interpret. In his dream, Pharaoh sees seven well-favoured and fat-fleshed cows (kine) emerging from the Nile River, followed by seven other cows that are ill-favoured and lean-fleshed. The lean cows devour the well-favoured ones, yet remain as gaunt as before. This dream is followed by another, involving ears of grain, which carries a similar theme.

Joseph, who is in prison at the time, is summoned to interpret Pharaoh's dreams. Through divine insight, Joseph explains that the seven well-favoured cows represent seven years of great abundance and plenty in Egypt, while the seven lean cows symbolize seven subsequent years of severe famine. Joseph advises Pharaoh to store surplus grain during the years of plenty to prepare for the impending famine.

Symbolism and Significance

The well-favoured kine symbolize God's provision and the blessings of abundance. The narrative underscores the importance of wisdom and foresight in times of prosperity, as well as the necessity of prudent stewardship of resources. Joseph's interpretation and subsequent management of Egypt's resources not only save the nation from famine but also elevate him to a position of great authority.

The story of the well-favoured kine serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the cyclical nature of seasons in life. It highlights the principle that times of plenty should be used to prepare for times of need, a lesson that resonates with the biblical theme of stewardship and trust in divine providence.

Theological Reflection

From a theological perspective, the account of the well-favoured kine illustrates God's active involvement in human affairs and His ability to bring about His purposes through individuals who are faithful and obedient. Joseph's rise from slavery and imprisonment to a position of power exemplifies the biblical truth that God can use any circumstance for His glory and the good of His people.

Furthermore, the narrative encourages believers to seek God's wisdom in all circumstances, recognizing that He is the ultimate source of provision and guidance. The story of the well-favoured kine is a testament to the faithfulness of God and His desire to bless and sustain His creation through both times of plenty and times of want.

Conclusion

The well-favoured kine in Pharaoh's dream are more than just symbols of agricultural prosperity; they represent a divine message of preparation, stewardship, and trust in God's provision. As believers reflect on this account, they are reminded of the importance of seeking God's wisdom and being faithful stewards of the resources entrusted to them, confident in the knowledge that God is sovereign over all seasons of life.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 41:2,26,29
And, behold, there came up out of the river seven well favored cows and fat; and they fed in a meadow.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire
... and large wickerwork shields covered with ox-hide, which ... first time in over a hundred
years Assyria proper ... of the whoredoms of the well-favoured harlot, the ...
/.../chapter iiithe medes and the.htm