Genesis 47:3 - Pharaoh said to his brothers, “What is your occupation?” They said to Pharaoh, “Your servants are shepherds, both we, and our fathers.”
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What does "Genesis 47:3" mean?
This verse from Genesis 47:3 is part of the story where Jacob (Israel) and his sons arrive in Egypt seeking refuge from a severe famine in Canaan. The verse itself is simple, but understanding its significance requires context:
Pharaoh's Question: Pharaoh is curious about the newcomers. Asking about their occupation allows him to understand their skills and potential contribution to Egyptian society. It's also a way for him to assess whether they pose any threat or could be easily integrated.
The Brothers' Answer: The brothers are very clear and straightforward. They state that they are shepherds, just like their fathers before them. This is a crucial detail:
Honesty: They are not trying to deceive Pharaoh or exaggerate their status.
Shepherding as Identity: Shepherding is more than just a job; it's their family's way of life, their heritage, and their connection to the land.
Social Standing: In Egyptian society, shepherding was not a highly regarded occupation. In fact, Egyptians often considered shepherds to be somewhat unclean. This could be related to their close contact with animals. The brothers are essentially admitting to a less prestigious position in society.
Implications of their answer:
Reinforces their separation: By declaring themselves shepherds, they are inherently setting themselves apart from Egyptian culture and society. This difference will play a role in later developments in the story, as the Israelites become a distinct group within Egypt.
Preparation for seeking land: By identifying as shepherds, it sets the stage for them to request the land of Goshen, which was suitable for grazing livestock. This is revealed in the verses that follow.
In summary, the verse highlights the initial interaction between the Israelites and the Pharaoh of Egypt. It reveals their occupation as shepherds, emphasizing their honesty, family tradition, and implicitly setting them apart from Egyptian society. This sets the stage for their integration into Egypt and the eventual events that would lead to the Exodus.
Genesis 47:3 - Pharaoh said to his brothers, “What is your occupation?” They said to Pharaoh, “Your servants are shepherds, both we, and our fathers.”
What does "Genesis 47:3" mean?
This verse from Genesis 47:3 is part of the story where Jacob (Israel) and his sons arrive in Egypt seeking refuge from a severe famine in Canaan. The verse itself is simple, but understanding its significance requires context:
Pharaoh's Question: Pharaoh is curious about the newcomers. Asking about their occupation allows him to understand their skills and potential contribution to Egyptian society. It's also a way for him to assess whether they pose any threat or could be easily integrated.
The Brothers' Answer: The brothers are very clear and straightforward. They state that they are shepherds, just like their fathers before them. This is a crucial detail:
Honesty: They are not trying to deceive Pharaoh or exaggerate their status.
Shepherding as Identity: Shepherding is more than just a job; it's their family's way of life, their heritage, and their connection to the land.
Social Standing: In Egyptian society, shepherding was not a highly regarded occupation. In fact, Egyptians often considered shepherds to be somewhat unclean. This could be related to their close contact with animals. The brothers are essentially admitting to a less prestigious position in society.
Implications of their answer:
Reinforces their separation: By declaring themselves shepherds, they are inherently setting themselves apart from Egyptian culture and society. This difference will play a role in later developments in the story, as the Israelites become a distinct group within Egypt.
Preparation for seeking land: By identifying as shepherds, it sets the stage for them to request the land of Goshen, which was suitable for grazing livestock. This is revealed in the verses that follow.
In summary, the verse highlights the initial interaction between the Israelites and the Pharaoh of Egypt. It reveals their occupation as shepherds, emphasizing their honesty, family tradition, and implicitly setting them apart from Egyptian society. This sets the stage for their integration into Egypt and the eventual events that would lead to the Exodus.