Genesis 41 Summary

Pharaoh is troubled by two vivid dreams — seven fat cows devoured by seven lean cows, and seven full ears of grain swallowed by seven thin, blasted ears — which none of his magicians or wise men can interpret. The chief butler, recalling his own experience in prison, recommends Joseph, who is hastily brought from the dungeon. Joseph attributes the interpretation entirely to God and declares that the dreams are one: seven years of great plenty throughout Egypt will be followed by seven years of severe famine. He advises Pharaoh to appoint a wise overseer to store a fifth of Egypt's produce during the plenteous years, and Pharaoh, recognizing that the Spirit of God is in Joseph, appoints him to that very role, setting him over all the land of Egypt, giving him his signet ring, fine linen robes, a gold chain, and a wife, Asenath. Joseph faithfully administers the plan from age thirty — gathering grain beyond measure during the seven abundant years — and when the famine strikes all the earth, Egypt alone has bread and people from all countries come to Joseph to buy grain.