Genesis 39:21 - But Yahweh was with Joseph, and showed kindness to him, and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
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What does "Genesis 39:21" mean?
Genesis 39:21 describes a pivotal point in Joseph's life. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"But Yahweh was with Joseph...": This is the key phrase. "Yahweh" is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. It means that despite Joseph's terrible circumstances (being wrongly accused and imprisoned in Egypt), God had not abandoned him. God's presence and power are actively involved in Joseph's life.
"...and showed kindness to him...": This signifies that God's presence wasn't just passive. God was actively working on Joseph's behalf, demonstrating chesed, a Hebrew word that encompasses mercy, love, grace, and loyalty. God was extending undeserved favor to Joseph.
"...and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.": This is the result of God's kindness. God influenced the prison warden (the "keeper of the prison") to view Joseph favorably. This means Joseph likely received better treatment, perhaps more freedom or responsibilities within the prison, and was trusted by the warden.
In essence, the verse means:
Even though Joseph was unjustly imprisoned, God did not forsake him. Instead, God's loving presence was with Joseph, and this presence resulted in Joseph receiving special favor from the prison warden. This divine favor sets the stage for Joseph's rise to power later in the Genesis narrative. It emphasizes that even in the darkest of times, God can work to bring about good for those who are faithful to Him.
Genesis 39:21 - But Yahweh was with Joseph, and showed kindness to him, and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.
What does "Genesis 39:21" mean?
Genesis 39:21 describes a pivotal point in Joseph's life. Here's a breakdown of its meaning:
"But Yahweh was with Joseph...": This is the key phrase. "Yahweh" is the personal name of God in the Hebrew Bible. It means that despite Joseph's terrible circumstances (being wrongly accused and imprisoned in Egypt), God had not abandoned him. God's presence and power are actively involved in Joseph's life.
"...and showed kindness to him...": This signifies that God's presence wasn't just passive. God was actively working on Joseph's behalf, demonstrating chesed, a Hebrew word that encompasses mercy, love, grace, and loyalty. God was extending undeserved favor to Joseph.
"...and gave him favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison.": This is the result of God's kindness. God influenced the prison warden (the "keeper of the prison") to view Joseph favorably. This means Joseph likely received better treatment, perhaps more freedom or responsibilities within the prison, and was trusted by the warden.
In essence, the verse means:
Even though Joseph was unjustly imprisoned, God did not forsake him. Instead, God's loving presence was with Joseph, and this presence resulted in Joseph receiving special favor from the prison warden. This divine favor sets the stage for Joseph's rise to power later in the Genesis narrative. It emphasizes that even in the darkest of times, God can work to bring about good for those who are faithful to Him.