“And Pharaoh said unto his brethren, What is your occupation? And they said unto Pharaoh, Thy servants are shepherds, both we and also our fathers.”– Genesis 47:3 (KJV)
“Then Pharaoh asked the brothers, What is your occupation? We are shepherds, like our ancestors,” they replied.– Genesis 47:3 (NLT)
“Pharaoh said to his brothers, What do you do for a living? They said, Your servants are shepherds, both we and our fathers.”– Genesis 47:3 (MSG)
What Does Genesis 47:3 Mean?
In Genesis 47:3, we encounter a pivotal moment for Joseph and his family. After years of hardship, famine, and separation, Jacob’s sons stand before Pharaoh in Egypt. This encounter is significant as it marks not only a reunion but also an opportunity for the family of Jacob to secure their future during a time of great need. Pharaoh, a figure of power, asks the brothers about their occupation. Their response reveals their identity as shepherds, a profession that holds deep meaning in the biblical narrative.
The fact that the brothers identify themselves as shepherds is crucial. In ancient times, shepherds were often viewed as humble workers but held a strong connection to the land and God’s creation. Shepherding is a recurring theme throughout the Bible, representing care, guidance, and divine provision. The biblical imagery connects to God’s shepherding of His people. When the brothers mention their occupation, they are embodying a heritage that ties them back to their father Jacob and grandfather Abraham, both shepherds themselves. This acknowledgement strengthens their bond and highlights their roles as caretakers of the flocks God has entrusted to them.
Genesis 47:3 Explanation and Commentary
When we think about Genesis 47:3, we find a lesson in identity and faith. Joseph’s brothers present themselves to Pharaoh not just as men looking for food but as representatives of their heritage. To Pharaoh, they say, “We are shepherds, like our ancestors.” This statement serves multiple purposes. First, it is a testament to their honesty. Despite being in a foreign land, they do not shy away from who they are or where they come from.
Our identity, much like their identity, plays a crucial role in our lives. In a world where we may feel pressure to conform to different standards or lifestyles, it is refreshing to recognize the value in being true to ourselves. Just as Jacob’s sons proudly claim their profession, we, too, can embrace our backgrounds and experiences, knowing they shape our journey.
Furthermore, their profession reveals their dependence on God. Shepherds guided their flocks to the green pastures and still waters, reminiscent of how God cares for His people (see Psalm 23). They depend on divine provision, trusting that God would lead them to safety and sustenance. This reliance is a reminder for us not to forget our dependence on God in our daily lives. Just as the shepherds looked to God for guidance, we can seek His will in the decisions we make.
In expressing their occupation, the brothers also highlight their family’s legacy. Jacob and his sons are part of a broader narrative of faith in God that spans generations. Their profession intertwines them with the promises God made to Abraham, reminding us that our stories are part of a greater story the Lord is weaving. We are not isolated; our lives connect with the lives of others who have walked before us, all part of the family of faith.
This acknowledgment to Pharaoh of their role serves to set the stage for their future in Egypt. It paves the way for them to settle in a land where they can thrive. God had a plan not just for Joseph but for his entire family, ensuring their survival during a challenging time. Similarly, we can rest assured that God has a purpose for us, guiding us through difficulties and leading us to places where we can flourish.
Context of Genesis 47:3
To understand Genesis 47:3 fully, considering the context is vital. At this point in the story, Joseph has risen to a powerful position in Egypt after being sold by his brothers and enduring many trials. He interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams and saved Egypt from a severe famine by storing grain during seven years of plenty. When the famine struck, people from various lands, including Joseph’s family, traveled to Egypt for food.
This context illustrates how the hand of God was at work throughout Joseph’s life. Despite his adversities, he remained faithful, leading to the moment where he could provide for his family. Joseph’s brothers were initially afraid when they arrived in Egypt due to the guilt they felt for what they had done to him. However, Joseph’s actions demonstrated forgiveness and restoration, showcasing the redemptive nature of God’s love.
The specific moment of interaction with Pharaoh comes after Jacob’s family has traveled to Egypt. Pharaoh’s inquiry regarding their occupation serves as a gateway for Joseph to present his family favorably. The opportunity to profess their identity as shepherds is significant because it allows them to establish their roots in a foreign land. Pharaoh’s land is foreign, but God is with them, affirming their identity regardless of where they find themselves.
In a sense, this moment reflects our experiences as we navigate through life’s challenges. We, too, may find ourselves in unfamiliar situations, where we have to identify our way and place through faith. This narrative serves as encouragement, reminding us that God has a plan even when circumstances seem daunting.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of Genesis 47:3
Let’s break down the key components of Genesis 47:3 for further insight. It begins with Pharaoh addressing Joseph’s brothers. The very fact that Pharaoh, a ruler at the top of his societal hierarchy, shows interest in their identity is significant. A simple question can carry much weight, especially coming from someone in power. Who we are, what we do, and how we present ourselves matter in the grand scheme of life.
The brothers clarify their occupation, “Thy servants are shepherds.” This acknowledgment is layered with meaning. It’s a statement of honesty, a reminder of their purpose, and an affirmation of their roots. In this profession is a sense of humility. Shepherding is often considered a lowly job, yet it also denotes care, compassion, and protection. Just as shepherds look after their sheep, God looks after us, providing for every need.
The mention of their ancestry underscores not just who they are but sets them firmly within God’s covenant. The “we and also our fathers” phrase highlights the continuity of faith and tradition they carry. This acknowledgment is a powerful reminder of the importance of knowing where we come from and recognizing the legacy our predecessors have given us. It compels us to consider how our lives might influence the generations yet to come.
As they reveal their profession, we see principle possibilities at work. Revelation leads to connection. They establish a foundation for their relationship with Pharaoh that is characterized by trust and mutual understanding. When we communicate openly about who we are and what we believe, it creates opportunities for connection and dialogue, even in unfamiliar circumstances. This deeper connection not only enriches our faith but also strengthens our community. There is strength in unity and in shared experiences, reminiscent of how God orchestrates our paths.
The significance of being shepherds resonates throughout Scripture, drawing us to Christ, who declares Himself the Good Shepherd in John 10:11. The parallels here remind us that much like Joseph’s brothers, we are called to care for others compassionately, following in the footsteps of Jesus. The lessons learned from Genesis 47:3 extend beyond a mere profession; they call us to be stewards, servants, and caretakers in our communities.
Lessons to Learn From Genesis 47:3
Genesis 47:3 imparts several vital lessons for us. One prominent lesson is the value of our identity. In a fast-paced world, we can sometimes lose touch with who we truly are. The brothers reminded us it is essential to embrace our identity and heritage. They were not ashamed of who they were or where they came from. They stood firmly in their roles as shepherds, asserting their place in God’s family. This affirmation encourages us to stand confidently in our identities as followers of Christ, embracing our stories and narratives.
In addition, the verse teaches us about integrity. The brothers were honest and forthright in answering Pharaoh’s question. Honesty builds trust and fosters relationships, similar to how God desires us to approach Him in truthfulness. We must strive to maintain integrity in our lives, demonstrating truth in our interactions with others, just as Joseph’s family did. Integrity reflects God’s character and invites others to recognize the beauty of living authentically.
We are also reminded of our dependence on God. The profession of shepherding illustrates our call to rely on God for guidance and wisdom. Just as the shepherd leads the sheep to verdant pastures, God provides for our needs and directs our paths. When we acknowledge our reliance on Him, we open ourselves to experiencing His goodness, grace, and provision.
There is also a lesson about family and legacy. Jacob’s family was united in revealing their profession, reflecting their shared journey. Our relationships matter and shape our lives profoundly. We are encouraged to strengthen our family bonds, cherishing the heritage we inherit from our loved ones. Recognizing the impact of previous generations challenges us to live our lives in ways that honor their sacrifices and faith.
Lastly, Genesis 47:3 highlights the importance of adaptability. Joseph’s family moved to a new land where their livelihood and identity were questioned. Yet they embraced this change with faith. This reminds us that we, too, can adapt to the changes life brings, trusting that God will lead us, just as He did with Joseph and his family. Our lives may take unexpected turns, but we can meet them with faith, knowing God has a plan for us.
Final Thoughts
Genesis 47:3 is a powerful passage with layers of meaning that resonate deeply with us. The verse encourages us to embrace our identity, cherish our heritage, and maintain integrity in all aspects of life. Through the brothers’ encounter with Pharaoh, we witness the importance of faith, honesty, and connection.
As we reflect on the lessons gleaned from this moment, let’s remember the significance of our profession, whatever that may be. We may not all be literal shepherds, but we can strive to be caretakers and stewards of God’s creation in our unique contexts. God has entrusted us with various responsibilities, and when we approach them with gratitude and a sense of purpose, we honor Him.
Embracing our identity allows us to encounter life’s changes with grace and confidence. Just as Jacob’s family navigated their way through Egypt, we can trust in God’s guiding hand as we journey through our lives. Whether we face challenges or opportunities, we are reminded that our God is faithful, leading us through each season.
In closing, let us take inspiration from Genesis 47:3 as we seek to live authentically, uphold our values, embrace our story, and honor our connections with others. May we find strength in our identity and purpose in our journeys, trusting that God, our Shepherd, will guide us every step of the way.
If you’re interested in exploring more biblical themes and stories, consider checking out some of these topics: Matthew 11, Genesis 1:85, and Genesis 1:86. There’s so much more to discover and reflect on!