Genesis 41:14 describes the moment Joseph is summoned from prison to interpret Pharaoh's dreams. Let's break down the meaning of each part:
"Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph..." This indicates Pharaoh was in a hurry and needed Joseph's help urgently. Remember, Pharaoh was troubled by dreams that no one in his court could interpret.
"...and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon." This emphasizes the urgency and also tells us that Joseph was still in prison. "Hastily" suggests a quick removal.
"He shaved himself..." In ancient Egypt, a well-groomed appearance was important, especially when appearing before royalty. Beards, particularly for prisoners, were likely unkempt and considered uncivilized. Shaving was a sign of respect and preparation for meeting the Pharaoh.
"...changed his clothing..." Like shaving, changing clothes was about presenting himself appropriately. Prison clothes would have been dirty and tattered. He needed to put on clean, presentable garments to appear before the ruler.
"...and came in to Pharaoh." This concludes the verse by stating that Joseph, after preparing himself, finally entered Pharaoh's presence, ready to offer his interpretation.
In summary, the verse shows:
Pharaoh's desperation: He quickly calls for Joseph when no one else can help.
Joseph's status: He is still a prisoner.
Joseph's respect and preparation: He understands the importance of presenting himself properly before Pharaoh, so he makes himself presentable by shaving and changing his clothes.
The beginning of Joseph's rise to power: This is the moment that sets in motion Joseph's release and eventual ascent to becoming a powerful figure in Egypt. He is now in a position to use his God-given gift to interpret dreams, leading to his freedom and high rank.
Genesis 41:14 describes the moment Joseph is summoned from prison to interpret Pharaoh's dreams. Let's break down the meaning of each part:
"Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph..." This indicates Pharaoh was in a hurry and needed Joseph's help urgently. Remember, Pharaoh was troubled by dreams that no one in his court could interpret.
"...and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon." This emphasizes the urgency and also tells us that Joseph was still in prison. "Hastily" suggests a quick removal.
"He shaved himself..." In ancient Egypt, a well-groomed appearance was important, especially when appearing before royalty. Beards, particularly for prisoners, were likely unkempt and considered uncivilized. Shaving was a sign of respect and preparation for meeting the Pharaoh.
"...changed his clothing..." Like shaving, changing clothes was about presenting himself appropriately. Prison clothes would have been dirty and tattered. He needed to put on clean, presentable garments to appear before the ruler.
"...and came in to Pharaoh." This concludes the verse by stating that Joseph, after preparing himself, finally entered Pharaoh's presence, ready to offer his interpretation.
In summary, the verse shows:
Pharaoh's desperation: He quickly calls for Joseph when no one else can help.
Joseph's status: He is still a prisoner.
Joseph's respect and preparation: He understands the importance of presenting himself properly before Pharaoh, so he makes himself presentable by shaving and changing his clothes.
The beginning of Joseph's rise to power: This is the moment that sets in motion Joseph's release and eventual ascent to becoming a powerful figure in Egypt. He is now in a position to use his God-given gift to interpret dreams, leading to his freedom and high rank.