Genesis 47:5

And Pharaoh spake unto Joseph, saying, Thy father and thy brethren are come unto thee:

Genesis 47:5 (KJV)

Context

This verse sits within the larger story of Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become second only to Pharaoh in Egypt. A severe famine had driven Joseph’s brothers to Egypt in search of food. In the preceding chapters, Joseph tested his brothers to see if they had changed, then revealed his identity and forgave them. In Genesis 46, Jacob and his whole family, seventy people in all, came to Egypt. Now, in Genesis 47:1-4, Joseph presented five of his brothers to Pharaoh, who asked about their work. They answered that they were shepherds and asked to settle in the land of Goshen.

Pharaoh’s words in verse 5 are not new information for Joseph, who already knew his family had arrived. Instead, they prepare the way for what Pharaoh says next in verse 6, where he grants Joseph’s family the best of the land. This shows the favour Joseph had found in Pharaoh’s eyes and the high position he held.

Meaning

Pharaoh speaks directly to Joseph, saying, “Thy father and thy brethren are come unto thee.” This simple statement acknowledges the reunion of Joseph with his father Jacob and his brothers. It also shows that Pharaoh recognised Joseph’s family as important. The verse highlights the value of family ties and the honour Pharaoh gave to Joseph by speaking to him in this personal way.

The verse also points to God’s providence. Through Joseph’s wisdom in storing grain during seven years of plenty, God preserved his family during the famine. Pharaoh’s generous response is part of that larger plan. The family of Israel found refuge and provision in Egypt, not by chance, but because God had prepared the way through Joseph.

Biblical connections

This moment connects to the earlier promise God made to Abraham, that his descendants would become a great nation (Genesis 12:2). The preservation of Jacob’s family in Egypt was a necessary step in that plan. It also connects to Joseph’s own words in Genesis 50:20, where he tells his brothers that what they meant for evil, God meant for good. Here, the good is already visible: the family is reunited and given a place to live.

Application

One lesson is the power of forgiveness. Joseph did not use his power to punish his brothers. Instead, he forgave them and sought to restore the relationship. This reminds us that forgiveness can heal broken families and friendships.

Another lesson is God’s sovereignty. Even in difficult circumstances, God can work out His purposes. Joseph’s suffering was not wasted; it became the means of saving many lives. We can trust that God is at work even when we cannot see the full picture.

The value of family is also clear. Pharaoh honoured the family bond, and Joseph cared for his father and brothers. We are reminded to cherish and nurture our own family relationships, even when they are imperfect.

Reflection

God’s provision is a recurring theme. The famine was severe, yet God provided a refuge for His people. He can provide for us in times of scarcity, often through unexpected means. This verse encourages us to trust in God’s faithfulness and to extend forgiveness and grace to others, just as Joseph did.