Genesis 46:34

That ye shall say, Thy servants’ trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

Genesis 46:34 (KJV)

Context

Joseph speaks here to his brothers during a severe famine. They have come to Egypt to buy food, and Joseph, now governor, has just revealed his identity to them. He is planning to settle his whole family in Egypt, so he tells them exactly what to say to Pharaoh. His words are part of a larger plan to secure a safe and separate place for his family to live.

Meaning

Joseph instructs his brothers to declare that their trade has been about cattle from their youth, both they and their fathers. This was true: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were all keepers of cattle, and the phrase “from our youth even until now” shows that this was their lifelong occupation, not a recent change. By stating this honestly, Joseph hopes to gain a specific outcome.

His goal is that they may dwell in the land of Goshen. Goshen was a fertile region in Egypt, well suited for grazing livestock. The brothers’ occupation made Goshen a natural fit, and Joseph’s request was both practical and strategic.

The verse explains why this strategy works: “every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians.” The Egyptians, with their urban and agricultural society, viewed shepherds as lowly and detestable. Because of this disdain, Pharaoh would likely allow Joseph’s family to live separately in Goshen, away from the main Egyptian population. This separation would also keep the Hebrews distinct and reduce the risk of cultural assimilation.

Biblical connections

This separation served God’s purpose. In Genesis 46:3-4, God had promised to go down with Jacob to Egypt and to bring him up again. By keeping the Hebrews distinct in Goshen, God preserved their identity and prepared them to grow into a great nation, as He had promised Abraham. The brothers’ honest declaration, though it was an abomination to the Egyptians, was used by God to fulfill His promises.

Application

Joseph used the Egyptians’ prejudice to secure a favorable settlement for his family. He did not hide their occupation or pretend to be something else. He spoke truthfully, and God used that truth to fulfill His promises. This teaches us to trust God’s sovereignty even when circumstances seem unfavorable. What others despise, God can use for our good and His glory. Our background and skills, however humble, can be part of His plan.

Reflection

Consider how God has prepared a place for you, even through difficult or despised circumstances. Joseph’s wisdom and honesty remind us that we can rely on God’s providence, knowing that He works through our ordinary lives to accomplish His purposes.