Genesis 41:33
Genesis 41:33 in Multiple Translations
Now, therefore, Pharaoh should look for a discerning and wise man and set him over the land of Egypt.
Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt.
Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt.
And now let Pharaoh make search for a man of wisdom and good sense, and put him in authority over the land of Egypt.
So Your Majesty should choose a man with insight and wisdom, and put him in charge of the whole country of Egypt.
Nowe therefore let Pharaoh prouide for a man of vnderstanding and wisedome, and set him ouer the land of Egypt.
'And now, let Pharaoh provide a man, intelligent and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt;
“Now therefore let Pharaoh look for a discreet and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt.
Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt.
Now therefore let the king provide a wise and industrious man, and make him ruler over the land of Egypt:
“Now I suggest that you should choose a man who is wise and can make good decisions. I suggest that you appoint him to direct the affairs of the whole country.
Then Joseph said, “Sir, now I will tell you what you have to do. You have to pick a man that is really wise and thinks properly. And you have to put that man in charge of Egypt country.
Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 41:33
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Genesis 41:33 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וְ/עַתָּה֙
יֵרֶ֣א
פַרְעֹ֔ה
אִ֖ישׁ
נָב֣וֹן
וְ/חָכָ֑ם
וִ/ישִׁיתֵ֖/הוּ
עַל
אֶ֥רֶץ
מִצְרָֽיִם
וְ/עַתָּה֙
ʻattâh
H6258
now
Conj | Adv
יֵרֶ֣א
râʼâh
H7200
Provider
V-Qal-Juss-3ms
פַרְעֹ֔ה
Parʻôh
H6547
Pharaoh
N-proper
אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
man
N-ms
נָב֣וֹן
bîyn
H995
to understand
V-Niphal
וְ/חָכָ֑ם
châkâm
H2450
wise
Conj | Adj
וִ/ישִׁיתֵ֖/הוּ
shîyth
H7896
to set
Conj | V-Qal-Juss-3ms | Suff
עַל
ʻal
H5921
upon
Prep
אֶ֥רֶץ
ʼerets
H776
land
N-cs
מִצְרָֽיִם
Mitsrayim
H4714
Egypt
N-proper
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 41:33
וְ/עַתָּה֙
ʻattâh
H6258
"now"
Conj | Adv
This word means now or at this time, like in Exodus when God says now is the time to act. It can also be used to connect ideas or show a change in time, as seen in the book of Isaiah.
Definition: 1) now 1a) now 1b) in phrases
Usage: Occurs in 422 OT verses. KJV: henceforth, now, straightway, this time, whereas. See also: Genesis 3:22; Joshua 24:23; 2 Samuel 24:13.
יֵרֶ֣א
râʼâh
H7200
"Provider"
V-Qal-Juss-3ms
The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.
Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after
Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.
פַרְעֹ֔ה
Parʻôh
H6547
"Pharaoh"
N-proper
In the Bible, Pharaoh refers to the king of Egypt, a powerful leader with great authority. The word is used in many passages, including Genesis 12:15 and Exodus 1:9, to describe the ruler of Egypt. It is a title of respect and power.
Definition: A man of the Egyptians living at the time of Divided Monarchy, first mentioned at 2Ki.23.29; also called Pharaoh at 2Ki.23.35 etc.; Another name of ne.kho (נְכוֹ "Neco" H5224G) § Pharaoh = "great house" the common title of the king of Egypt
Usage: Occurs in 230 OT verses. KJV: Pharaoh. See also: Genesis 12:15; Exodus 6:29; 2 Kings 23:35.
אִ֖ישׁ
ʼîysh
H376
"man"
N-ms
The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.
Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)
Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.
נָב֣וֹן
bîyn
H995
"to understand"
V-Niphal
To understand or discern, this verb means to separate mentally and know something with your mind, as seen in Proverbs where it talks about gaining insight.
Definition: 1) to discern, understand, consider 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to perceive, discern 1a2) to understand, know (with the mind) 1a3) to observe, mark, give heed to, distinguish, consider 1a4) to have discernment, insight, understanding 1b) (Niphal) to be discerning, intelligent, discreet, have understanding 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to understand 1c2) to cause to understand, give understanding, teach 1d) (Hithpolel) to show oneself discerning or attentive, consider diligently 1e) (Polel) to teach, instruct 2) (TWOT) prudent, regard
Usage: Occurs in 162 OT verses. KJV: attend, consider, be cunning, diligently, direct, discern, eloquent, feel, inform, instruct, have intelligence, know, look well to, mark, perceive, be prudent, regard, (can) skill(-full), teach, think, (cause, make to, get, give, have) understand(-ing), view, (deal) wise(-ly, man). See also: Genesis 41:33; Psalms 139:2; Psalms 5:2.
וְ/חָכָ֑ם
châkâm
H2450
"wise"
Conj | Adj
This word means wise or skilled, describing someone intelligent or crafty, like a cunning man or a prudent leader.
Definition: 1) wise, wise (man) 1a) skilful (in technical work) 1b) wise (in administration) 1c) shrewd, crafty, cunning, wily, subtle 1d) learned, shrewd (class of men) 1e) prudent 1f) wise (ethically and religiously)
Usage: Occurs in 133 OT verses. KJV: cunning (man), subtil, (un-), wise((hearted), man). See also: Genesis 41:8; Proverbs 16:14; Psalms 49:11.
וִ/ישִׁיתֵ֖/הוּ
shîyth
H7896
"to set"
Conj | V-Qal-Juss-3ms | Suff
This Hebrew word means to place or set something, and it's used in many different ways, like appointing someone to a job or setting your mind to do something. It appears in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to lay hands on someone or make something happen.
Definition: : make/establish 1) to put, set 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to put, lay (hand upon) 1a2) to set, station, appoint, fix, set mind to 1a3) to constitute, make (one something), make like, perform 1a4) to take one's stand 1a5) to lay waste 1b) (Hophal) to be imposed, be set upon
Usage: Occurs in 80 OT verses. KJV: apply, appoint, array, bring, consider, lay (up), let alone, [idiom] look, make, mark, put (on), [phrase] regard, set, shew, be stayed, [idiom] take. See also: Genesis 3:15; Psalms 21:7; Psalms 3:7.
עַל
ʻal
H5921
"upon"
Prep
This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.
Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)
Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.
אֶ֥רֶץ
ʼerets
H776
"land"
N-cs
The land or earth refers to the soil or ground, and can also mean a country, territory, or region. In the Bible, it is used to describe the earth and its inhabitants, and is often translated as 'land' or 'country'.
Definition: : soil 1) land, earth 1a) earth 1a1) whole earth (as opposed to a part) 1a2) earth (as opposed to heaven) 1a3) earth (inhabitants) 1b) land 1b1) country, territory 1b2) district, region 1b3) tribal territory 1b4) piece of ground 1b5) land of Canaan, Israel 1b6) inhabitants of land 1b7) Sheol, land without return, (under) world 1b8) city (-state) 1c) ground, surface of the earth 1c1) ground 1c2) soil 1d) (in phrases) 1d1) people of the land 1d2) space or distance of country (in measurements of distance) 1d3) level or plain country 1d4) land of the living 1d5) end(s) of the earth 1e) (almost wholly late in usage) 1e1) lands, countries 1e1a) often in contrast to Canaan
Usage: Occurs in 2190 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] common, country, earth, field, ground, land, [idiom] natins, way, [phrase] wilderness, world. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 18:18; Genesis 42:13.
מִצְרָֽיִם
Mitsrayim
H4714
"Egypt"
N-proper
This word means Egypt, a country in northeastern Africa, and is used in the Bible to describe the land and its people. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often referring to the Nile River and the Egyptians. Egypt is an important setting for many biblical events.
Definition: § Egypt = "land of the Copts" a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows Egyptians = "double straits" adj 2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt
Usage: Occurs in 569 OT verses. KJV: Egypt, Egyptians, Mizraim. See also: Genesis 10:6; Exodus 6:13; Exodus 34:18.
Study Notes — Genesis 41:33
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Genesis 41:33 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Genesis 41:33
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 41:33
- Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 41:33
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 41:33
- Cambridge Bible on Genesis 41:33
- Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 41:33
- Sermons on Genesis 41:33
Context — Joseph Interprets Pharaoh’s Dreams
31The abundance in the land will not be remembered, since the famine that follows it will be so severe.
32Moreover, because the dream was given to Pharaoh in two versions, the matter has been decreed by God, and He will carry it out shortly.
33Now, therefore, Pharaoh should look for a discerning and wise man and set him over the land of Egypt.
34Let Pharaoh take action and appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance. 35Under the authority of Pharaoh, let them collect all the excess food from these good years, that they may come and lay up the grain to be preserved as food in the cities.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 41:39 | Then Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one as discerning and wise as you. |
| 2 | Acts 6:3 | Therefore, brothers, select from among you seven men confirmed to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will appoint this responsibility to them |
| 3 | Deuteronomy 1:13 | Choose for yourselves wise, understanding, and respected men from each of your tribes, and I will appoint them as your leaders.” |
| 4 | Daniel 4:27 | Therefore, may my advice be pleasing to you, O king. Break away from your sins by doing what is right, and from your iniquities by showing mercy to the oppressed. Perhaps there will be an extension of your prosperity.” |
| 5 | Exodus 18:19–22 | Now listen to me; I will give you some advice, and may God be with you. You must be the people’s representative before God and bring their causes to Him. Teach them the statutes and laws, and show them the way to live and the work they must do. Furthermore, select capable men from among the people—God-fearing, trustworthy men who are averse to dishonest gain. Appoint them over the people as leaders of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens. Have these men judge the people at all times. Then they can bring you any major issue, but all minor cases they can judge on their own, so that your load may be lightened as they share it with you. |
Genesis 41:33 Summary
Genesis 41:33 advises Pharaoh to find a wise and discerning person to help manage the land of Egypt during the upcoming famine. This shows that even in difficult times, God can provide leaders with the wisdom to guide people through challenges. As seen in other parts of the Bible, such as Proverbs 28:2, wise leaders are essential for the well-being of their people. By trusting in God's sovereignty, as mentioned in Genesis 41:32, we can have faith that He will provide for our needs, even in uncertain times (Psalm 37:3-7).
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of man is Pharaoh being advised to look for in Genesis 41:33?
According to the verse, Pharaoh should look for a discerning and wise man to set over the land of Egypt, indicating the need for someone with exceptional leadership and administrative skills, as also seen in Exodus 18:21 where Moses is advised to select able men to help him lead the people.
Why is it important for Pharaoh to find this kind of man at this specific time?
The importance of finding a discerning and wise man at this time stems from the impending famine and the need for effective management of resources, as mentioned in Genesis 41:31, to ensure the survival of the people during the severe famine that follows the seven years of abundance.
How does this verse relate to the concept of stewardship in the Bible?
This verse highlights the principle of stewardship, where individuals are entrusted with managing resources and responsibilities, as seen in Luke 12:42-48, emphasizing the importance of faithfulness and wisdom in such roles.
What can we learn from Pharaoh's situation about preparing for the future?
We can learn from Pharaoh's situation the importance of planning and preparing for the future, as advised in Proverbs 21:5, which encourages prudent planning to avoid poverty and ensure prosperity.
Reflection Questions
- What are some ways I can demonstrate discernment and wisdom in my own life, especially in times of abundance or scarcity?
- How can I apply the principle of stewardship in my daily life, whether in managing personal resources or responsibilities?
- What are some lessons I can learn from Pharaoh's experience about the importance of seeking wise counsel and leadership?
- In what ways can I trust God to provide for my needs, even in times of uncertainty or hardship, as seen in Genesis 41:32 where it is stated that the matter has been decreed by God?
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 41:33
Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise,.... Of good judgment and conduct, of abilities equal to the execution of a scheme hereafter proposed: it can scarcely be thought consistent
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 41:33
Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt. Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man.
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 41:33
Genesis 41:33 Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt.Ver. 33. Now therefore let Pharaoh, &c.] This was good counsel, and it proved best to the counsellor. The Jews injuriously charge him with ambitious self-seeking: so they did Noah, as is above noted, with hard-heartedness and incompassionateness to the old world. These made the worst of things, and so condemned the generation of God’ s children. How much better had it been to have followed that golden rule of Epictetus! Take every man by that name whereby he may best be held; as Virgil dealt by Ennius, Cyprian by Tertullian, Jerome by Origen, Augustine by Tichonius. If an action had a hundred various faces, we should always cast our sight upon the fairest; and make the best of everything. What Joseph did here, he did doubtless by divine direction. Ea quemque ansa prehendamus qua commode teneri queat. - Epictet. Fran. de Sales, cap. 28.
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 41:33
Verse 33. A man discreet and wise] As it is impossible that Joseph could have foreseen his own elevation, consequently he gave this advice without any reference to himself. The counsel therefore was either immediately inspired by God, or was dictated by policy, prudence, and sound sense.
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 41:33
33–36. Joseph’s Counsel 33. let Pharaoh, &c.] Joseph leaves the office of interpreter, and takes upon himself to give political counsel to the king of Egypt.
Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 41:33
33. Now therefore let Pharaoh — “Joseph now naturally passes from the interpreter to the adviser. He is all himself on this critical occasion. His presence of mind never forsakes him.
Sermons on Genesis 41:33
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
Being Prepared by Peter Hammond | Peter Hammond preaches on the importance of being prudent and prepared for adversity, drawing lessons from biblical figures like Noah, Joseph, and the Apostle Paul who faced hardsh |
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Filling That Which Is Filled by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of genuine prayer and the moral poverty he sees in pulpit prayers in America. He emphasizes that success in preaching should |
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Peter by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of preaching the word of God and the opposition faced by those who do so. He shares a personal experience of being challenged |
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A Manual for Prayer - Part 2 by William MacDonald | In this sermon, Mr. McDonald reflects on the early Christians and their cultivation of a godly life, which resulted in tremendous messages and effective impact. He shares a convers |
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Leadership in Acts by George Verwer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of accepting the miraculous book of God and pressing on from there. The leader is highlighted as someone who is bold and fille |
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When the Spirit Falls by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and being controlled by Him. He uses examples from the Bible, such as the story of Phili |
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Spiritual Leadership by Glenn Meldrum | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a spiritual leader worth duplicating. He encourages believers to be unashamed to say to others, "Follow me, as I foll |