The Land of Goshen
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).
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
Hanging on nothing? Although he didn’t have all the tools of modern science, Job understood that God “hangs the earth on nothing” (26:7). His infinite… Read More »Hanging on nothing?
How is the festival of Purim related to Esther? Today, the Jewish festival of Purim celebrates the Jews’ deliverance from Haman’s plot to kill them.… Read More »How is the festival of Purim related to Esther?
Delivering the mail in Persia. The Persian Empire may have had the world’s first postal service. Carriers rode on horseback to various stations throughout the… Read More »Delivering the mail in Persia
The invisible God. The book of Esther does not directly mention God, but his providential hand was clearly at work, as remains the case today… Read More »The invisible God
Who is King Ahasuerus? The Persian king Ahasuerus is also known as Xerxes I. It was his army that fought against the Greek Spartans in… Read More »Who is King Ahasuerus?
Absolute authority. Once the king wrote a law, it could not be overturned (1:19–20). But it could be modified by an additional law (8:8–9:1).
Persian drinking vessels. The Persians were famous for making elaborate, expensive drinking cups and vessels. In fact, no two were alike. When the Greeks crushed… Read More »Persian drinking vessels