God’s providence
God’s providence. When Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, the outcome could have been tragic. But God in his providence brought good out of their… Read More »God’s providence
God’s providence. When Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, the outcome could have been tragic. But God in his providence brought good out of their… Read More »God’s providence
“Do not bury me in Egypt.” Once a family burial plot had been established, it was customary for future generations to be buried there as… Read More »“Do not bury me in Egypt.”
The Land of Goshen probably covered a small area. But it was very fertile and was a good place to raise sheep and cattle (46:28–34).
Joseph’s words “God sent me” reveal his faith in the providence of God who used his brothers’ evil act for great good—the preservation of Joseph… Read More »“God sent me”
Money in the form of coins did not come into use until around the sixth century b.c. In Joseph’s time, in the nineteenth century b.c.,… Read More »Money
Signets were seals that bore a unique mark representing their owner. Some signets were worn around the neck; others were worn as rings (41:42). The… Read More »Signets
Cupbearers (40:1) were high-ranking officials who served the kings of the ancient Near East. Their job was dangerous: before bringing any drink to the king,… Read More »Cupbearers
Levirate marriage is the practice of a man marrying the widow of his deceased brother, if she had no children (38:8). A child of this… Read More »Levirate marriage
A costly demonstration of grief. The Hebrew custom of tearing one’s garments (37:29, 34) was an expression of grief, often after learning of the death… Read More »A costly demonstration of grief
A long walk! Jacob sent Joseph to see how his brothers were doing, as they tended their sheep (37:14). Joseph headed northward, probably walking, and… Read More »A long walk!
Terebinths are huge, spreading trees that grow to a height of 20–26 feet (6–8 m). They have reddish-green leaves and red berries that grow in… Read More »Terebinths
The name Succoth (33:17) means “booths.” A booth was a temporary dwelling resembling a tent or a hut. Most of the people around Succoth were… Read More »Succoth