Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Zaphenath-paneah 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 change signifies Joseph's transformation from a Hebrew slave to a powerful leader in the Egyptian empire. The account of Joseph's rise to power is found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 41. Biblical Account: The account of Joseph's elevation begins with Pharaoh's troubling dreams, which none of his magicians or wise men could interpret. Joseph, who was imprisoned at the time, was remembered by Pharaoh's cupbearer as an interpreter of dreams. Brought before Pharaoh, Joseph interpreted the dreams as a divine revelation of seven years of abundance followed by seven years of severe famine. Joseph advised Pharaoh to appoint a wise and discerning man to oversee the storage of surplus grain during the years of plenty to prepare for the coming famine. Impressed by Joseph's wisdom and discernment, Pharaoh appointed him as the second-in-command over Egypt. In Genesis 41:41-45 , it is recorded: "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 Zaphenath-paneah and gave him Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, to be his wife. And Joseph went throughout the land of Egypt." Meaning of the Name: The exact meaning of the name Zaphenath-paneah is debated among scholars. Some suggest it means "God speaks, and he lives," reflecting Joseph's role as an interpreter of divine messages. Others propose meanings such as "revealer of secrets" or "savior of the world," emphasizing Joseph's role in saving Egypt and surrounding nations from famine. The name signifies Joseph's integration into Egyptian society and his acceptance as a leader with divine insight. Joseph's Role and Legacy: As Zaphenath-paneah, Joseph's leadership during the years of abundance and famine was crucial for the survival of Egypt and the surrounding regions. His strategic planning and management of resources not only saved countless lives but also solidified Pharaoh's power and wealth. Joseph's actions also set the stage for the eventual migration of his family to Egypt, which would have significant implications for the history of the Israelites. Joseph's account is a testament to God's providence and faithfulness. Despite the trials and injustices he faced, Joseph remained faithful to God, and his rise to power as Zaphenath-paneah demonstrates how God can use individuals to fulfill His purposes. Joseph's life exemplifies themes of forgiveness, redemption, and divine sovereignty, as he later reconciles with his brothers and acknowledges God's hand in his journey: "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). Cultural and Historical Context: Joseph's elevation to a high-ranking position in Egypt reflects the historical practice of foreign individuals rising to prominence in ancient Near Eastern courts. His marriage to Asenath, the daughter of an Egyptian priest, further integrated him into Egyptian society and culture. This union also highlights the blending of Hebrew and Egyptian traditions, which would have influenced the upbringing of Joseph's sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, who would become significant figures in the tribes of Israel. Conclusion: The account of Zaphenath-paneah, or Joseph, is a powerful narrative of transformation, divine providence, and leadership. His account continues to inspire and teach valuable lessons about faith, resilience, and the fulfillment of God's promises. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZAPHENATH-PANEAH, ZAPHNATH-PAANEAHzaf-e'-nath-pa-ne'-a, zaf'-nath-pa-a-ne'a (tsaphenath pa`aneach; Egyptian Zoph-ent-pa-ankh; Septuagint D, Psonthomphantch, "the one who furnishes the nourishment of life," i.e. the chief steward of the realm): The name given Joseph by the Egyptian king by whom he was promoted, probably the Hyksos king Aphophis (Genesis 41:45). Strong's Hebrew 6847. Tsaphenath Paneach -- "the god speaks and he lives ...... Eg. name. Transliteration: Tsaphenath Paneach Phonetic Spelling: (tsof-nath' pah-nay'-akh) Short Definition: Zaphenath-paneah. Word ... /hebrew/6847.htm - 6k Library Chapter xli Joseph and his Brethren Thesaurus Zaphenathpaneah... Int. Standard Bible Encyclopedia ZAPHENATH-PANEAH, ZAPHNATH-PAANEAH. zaf-e'-nath-pa-ne'-a, zaf'-nath-pa-a-ne'a (tsaphenath pa`aneach ... /z/zaphenathpaneah.htm - 6k Zaphenath-paneah (1 Occurrence) Zaph'enath-pane'ah (1 Occurrence) Zaphnathpaaneah (1 Occurrence) Zano'ah (4 Occurrences) Zaphnath-paaneah (1 Occurrence) Joseph's (36 Occurrences) Poti-phera (3 Occurrences) Potiphera (3 Occurrences) Resources What is the meaning of Zaphenath-Paneah in Genesis 41:45? | GotQuestions.orgWhy do some people in the Bible have more than one name? | GotQuestions.org Who were the priests of On? Was Joseph wrong to marry the daughter of a pagan priest (Genesis 41)? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Zaphenath-paneah (1 Occurrence)Genesis 41:45 Subtopics Related Terms |
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