Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Zaph'enath-pane'ah is the name given to Joseph, the son of Jacob and Rachel, by Pharaoh when Joseph was elevated to a position of high authority in Egypt. This name is significant in the biblical narrative as it marks Joseph's transition from a Hebrew slave to a powerful leader in a foreign land. Biblical Account: The account of Joseph receiving the name Zaph'enath-pane'ah is found in the Book of Genesis. After interpreting Pharaoh's dreams, which foretold seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine, Joseph was appointed as the second-in-command over Egypt. Genesis 41:41-45 records this event: "Pharaoh also told Joseph, 'I hereby place you over all the land of Egypt.' Then Pharaoh removed his signet ring from his finger, put it on Joseph’s finger, clothed him in garments of fine linen, and placed a gold chain around his neck. He had Joseph ride in his second chariot, with men calling out before him, 'Bow the knee!' So he placed him over all the land of Egypt. And Pharaoh declared to Joseph, 'I am Pharaoh, but without your permission, no one in all the land of Egypt shall lift his hand or foot.' Pharaoh gave Joseph the name Zaph'enath-pane'ah and gave him Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, to be his wife. And Joseph went throughout the land of Egypt." Meaning and Significance: The exact meaning of the name Zaph'enath-pane'ah is debated among scholars. Some suggest it means "God speaks, and he lives," reflecting Joseph's role as an interpreter of divine revelation. Others propose meanings such as "the savior of the world" or "the revealer of secrets," emphasizing Joseph's wisdom and his role in saving Egypt and surrounding nations from famine. Cultural and Historical Context: In the ancient Near Eastern context, it was common for foreign dignitaries or officials to receive new names upon entering the service of a king or ruler. This practice signified a change in status and often reflected the individual's new role or attributes recognized by the ruler. Joseph's new name, Zaph'enath-pane'ah, thus symbolizes his integration into Egyptian society and his authority granted by Pharaoh. Joseph's Role in Egypt: As Zaph'enath-pane'ah, Joseph was responsible for overseeing the collection and storage of grain during the seven years of abundance. His strategic planning and management ensured that Egypt had sufficient resources during the subsequent famine. Genesis 41:56-57 states, "When the famine had spread over all the land, Joseph opened up the storehouses and sold grain to the Egyptians, for the famine was severe in the land of Egypt. And every nation came to Joseph in Egypt to buy grain, because the famine was severe over all the earth." Theological Implications: Joseph's rise to power and his new name highlight themes of divine providence and faithfulness. Despite the trials and injustices he faced, Joseph remained faithful to God, and God used him to fulfill His purposes. Joseph's account is a testament to God's sovereignty and His ability to bring good out of difficult circumstances, as Joseph himself acknowledges in Genesis 50:20 : "As for you, what you intended against me for evil, God intended for good, in order to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives." Conclusion: The name Zaph'enath-pane'ah encapsulates Joseph's transformation and his critical role in the history of Israel and Egypt. Through Joseph, God preserved the lineage of Israel and demonstrated His power and faithfulness, setting the stage for the future fulfillment of His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Concordance Zaph'enath-pane'ah (1 Occurrence)Genesis 41:45 Thesaurus Zaph'enath-pane'ah (1 Occurrence)Zaph'enath-pane'ah. Zaphenath-paneah, Zaph'enath-pane'ah. Zaphnathpaaneah . Multi-Version Concordance Zaph'enath-pane'ah (1 Occurrence). ... /z/zaph'enath-pane'ah.htm - 6k Zaphnathpaaneah (1 Occurrence) Zaphenath-paneah (1 Occurrence) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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