Genesis 47:15 - When the money was all spent in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, all the Egyptians came to Joseph, and said, “Give us bread, for why should we die in your presence? For our money fails.”
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What does "Genesis 47:15" mean?
This verse describes a dire situation in ancient Egypt during a famine. Let's break down the meaning:
"When the money was all spent in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan...": This sets the scene. The famine was severe and widespread, affecting both Egypt and the neighboring land of Canaan. People had initially used their money to buy food, but the famine was so prolonged that their money ran out.
"...all the Egyptians came to Joseph...": Joseph was in a powerful position. He had interpreted Pharaoh's dream, predicting the famine, and Pharaoh had put him in charge of storing grain during the years of plenty. Now, the people turned to Joseph, the one in control of the food supply.
"...and said, “Give us bread, for why should we die in your presence? For our money fails.”": This is a desperate plea.
"Give us bread": They are begging for food to survive.
"For why should we die in your presence?": They are appealing to Joseph's compassion and sense of responsibility. They are acknowledging his power and suggesting that it would be a terrible thing if they died while he had the means to help them. It also implies a sense of submission or expectation that he, as a leader, should protect them.
"For our money fails.": This explicitly states that their money is now worthless because it cannot buy them food. They have exhausted their resources and have nothing else to offer in exchange.
In essence, the verse illustrates:
The severity of the famine: It was so devastating that it depleted the entire population's savings.
Joseph's authority and responsibility: The people recognize him as the one who can save them.
The beginning of a societal shift: The famine forces the Egyptians to give up their assets in exchange for survival, ultimately leading to significant changes in land ownership and social structure (as seen in the following verses).
The desperation of the people: Facing starvation, they are willing to do whatever it takes to survive. They are willing to beg, and later, to offer their livestock and even their land in exchange for food.
The verse is a crucial turning point in the story. It highlights the vulnerability of the people and sets the stage for Joseph's further actions, which would have a profound impact on the future of Egypt.
Genesis 47:15 - When the money was all spent in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, all the Egyptians came to Joseph, and said, “Give us bread, for why should we die in your presence? For our money fails.”
What does "Genesis 47:15" mean?
This verse describes a dire situation in ancient Egypt during a famine. Let's break down the meaning:
"When the money was all spent in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan...": This sets the scene. The famine was severe and widespread, affecting both Egypt and the neighboring land of Canaan. People had initially used their money to buy food, but the famine was so prolonged that their money ran out.
"...all the Egyptians came to Joseph...": Joseph was in a powerful position. He had interpreted Pharaoh's dream, predicting the famine, and Pharaoh had put him in charge of storing grain during the years of plenty. Now, the people turned to Joseph, the one in control of the food supply.
"...and said, “Give us bread, for why should we die in your presence? For our money fails.”": This is a desperate plea.
"Give us bread": They are begging for food to survive.
"For why should we die in your presence?": They are appealing to Joseph's compassion and sense of responsibility. They are acknowledging his power and suggesting that it would be a terrible thing if they died while he had the means to help them. It also implies a sense of submission or expectation that he, as a leader, should protect them.
"For our money fails.": This explicitly states that their money is now worthless because it cannot buy them food. They have exhausted their resources and have nothing else to offer in exchange.
In essence, the verse illustrates:
The severity of the famine: It was so devastating that it depleted the entire population's savings.
Joseph's authority and responsibility: The people recognize him as the one who can save them.
The beginning of a societal shift: The famine forces the Egyptians to give up their assets in exchange for survival, ultimately leading to significant changes in land ownership and social structure (as seen in the following verses).
The desperation of the people: Facing starvation, they are willing to do whatever it takes to survive. They are willing to beg, and later, to offer their livestock and even their land in exchange for food.
The verse is a crucial turning point in the story. It highlights the vulnerability of the people and sets the stage for Joseph's further actions, which would have a profound impact on the future of Egypt.