“Now when Jacob saw that there was corn in Egypt, Jacob said unto his sons, Why do ye look one upon another?”
This verse is found in the book of Genesis, which is the first book of the Bible and provides the historical account of the origins of the world, humanity, and the nation of Israel. In this specific chapter, we witness a significant event in the life of Jacob and his sons.
Context: Prior to Genesis 42, we learn that Jacob’s son Joseph had been sold into slavery by his brothers and taken to Egypt. Eventually, Joseph’s God-given ability to interpret dreams led him to become the second-in-command in Egypt, responsible for managing the nation’s food supply during a severe famine.
Famine in the Land: The verse begins by mentioning that Jacob saw there was corn in Egypt. This indicates that the famine was affecting the land where Jacob and his family resided. The desperate situation forced Jacob to consider seeking food elsewhere to sustain his household.
Jacob’s Command: Jacob, aware of the availability of corn in Egypt, turns to his sons and asks why they are simply looking at each other. It implies that they were inactive or indecisive in the face of the famine. Jacob urges his sons to take action and go to Egypt to buy grain, recognizing the necessity to procure food for their survival.
Symbolic Significance: Beyond its immediate context, this verse holds symbolic significance. The famine in the land can represent times of trial and hardship that people may face in their lives. Jacob’s command to his sons can be seen as a call to action and a reminder that during challenging times, it is essential to take proactive steps rather than being passive or stagnant.
Lessons for Believers: From this verse, we can draw some valuable lessons for our own lives. Firstly, it reminds us of the importance of being attentive to our circumstances and recognizing when action is required. Secondly, it emphasizes the need to trust in God’s provision and guidance during difficult times. Jacob sent his sons to Egypt because he knew there was grain there, just as we should seek God’s direction and provision when facing our own challenges.
In summary, Genesis 42:1 depicts Jacob’s response to the famine and his call for his sons to take action by going to Egypt for corn. This verse reminds us of the significance of actively addressing challenges and relying on God’s guidance and provision.
