“And as for the people, he removed them to cities from one end of the borders of Egypt even to the other end thereof.”
This verse is part of the narrative in Genesis that describes Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt and his subsequent management of the severe famine that struck the land.
At this point in the story, Joseph had successfully interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams and was appointed as the second‑in‑command, overseeing the distribution of food during the famine.
In this specific verse, “he” refers to Joseph, who implemented a strategy to deal with the famine’s impact on the people.
Joseph relocated the Egyptian population from the rural areas to the cities.
This action had several implications and purposes:
- Consolidation of Resources: By moving people from the rural areas to the cities, Joseph was able to consolidate and manage resources more efficiently. It allowed for better organisation and control over the limited food supplies during the famine. Concentrating people in cities likely facilitated the distribution of provisions and ensured that food was allocated fairly among the population.
- Social Order and Stability: The relocation of people to cities also helped maintain social order and stability during the difficult times of famine. By centralising the population, it was easier for the Egyptian government, under Joseph’s guidance, to maintain control and prevent widespread panic or chaos that could have arisen from a scattered and desperate population.
- Economic Impact: The migration to cities likely had economic implications as well. Concentrating people in urban centres could have led to increased economic activities within the cities. It could have stimulated trade, bartering, and exchange of goods and services among the population. Moreover, the relocation might have also enabled Joseph to implement policies or programmes that supported economic recovery and development during the famine.
- Preservation of Life: The primary motive behind Joseph’s actions was to save lives. By relocating the people to cities, Joseph ensured that they had access to the necessary resources and provisions to survive the famine. It was a strategic move to safeguard the population’s well‑being and prevent widespread starvation and death.
Overall, Genesis 47:21 highlights Joseph’s wise and proactive leadership during a time of crisis. His decision to relocate the people to cities showcased his administrative skills and concern for the welfare of the Egyptian population. It demonstrates Joseph’s role as a faithful servant of God and his obedience to the divine plan, as earlier prophesied through his dreams.
