Genesis 41:16 — Word Study
WLCוַיַּ֨עַן יוֹסֵ֧ף אֶת־ פַּרְעֹ֛ה לֵאמֹ֖ר בִּלְעָדָ֑י אֱלֹהִ֕ים יַעֲנֶ֖ה אֶת־ שְׁל֥וֹם פַּרְעֹֽה׃
BSAI myself cannot do itbilʻădêy [without God's help, on my own] JosephYôwçêph [Jehovah has added, a name given to several Israelites] repliedʻânâh▸ ◂but Godʼĕlôhîym [Elohim, the one supreme God] { will give } PharaohParʻôh [the king of Egypt, a powerful leader] a soundshâlôwm [peaceful, prosperous] answerʻânâh▸ [of peace, shalom, completeness and wellness]
| Greek | English | Parsing |
|---|---|---|
| וַיַּ֨עַן | and he answered | Verb, Qal, sequential imperfect third person masculine singular |
| יוֹסֵ֧ף | Joseph | Noun proper masculine |
| אֶת־ | the object marker | Particle |
| פַּרְעֹ֛ה | Pharaoh | Noun |
| לֵאמֹ֖ר | saying | Preposition, verb qal infinitive construct common |
| בִּלְעָדָ֑י | apart from me | Suffix |
| אֱלֹהִ֕ים | God | Noun common, masculine plural absolute |
| יַעֲנֶ֖ה | he will answer | Verb, Qal, imperfect third person masculine singular |
| אֶת־ | the object marker | Particle |
| שְׁל֥וֹם | [the] welfare of | Noun common, masculine singular construct |
| פַּרְעֹֽה׃ | Pharaoh | Noun |
Every word in the verse. Click a row to open it in the panel on the left.
| BSB | “I myself cannot do it,” Joseph replied, “but God will give Pharaoh a sound answer.” |
| KJV | And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace. |
| ASV | And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace. |
| YLT | and Joseph answereth Pharaoh, saying, 'Without me — God doth answer Pharaoh with peace.' |
| WEB | Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, “It isn’t in me. God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace.” |
| BBE | Then Joseph said, Without God there will be no answer of peace for Pharaoh. |
Where they part company is in the interpretation of Joseph's reliance on God and the nature of the answer provided — see How Translations Differ.
The sentence has a main clause with two subordinate phrases that clarify Joseph's limitations and God's promise.
7 commentators on this verse
Gill, Jamieson, Poole, Trapp & more — read them ›
clause
subjectיוֹסֵף
verbעָנָה
The sentence as the grammar sees it Open the tree ›
Every word here is used elsewhere in the Old Testament.
Bars are logarithmic — אֵת, the commonest word in the Hebrew Bible, stands about 11,000 times, so a linear scale would leave everything else invisible. Click a row to open that word.
Deep Study — Genesis 41:16
Sections marked generated are written from the data on this page rather than by a named author. Everything else — the lexicon entries, the cross references, the manuscript readings, the counts — is quoted from its source unchanged.
Context — Joseph Interprets Pharaoh's Dreamgenerated
Genesis 41:16 occurs in a pivotal moment where Pharaoh seeks an interpretation for his troubling dreams. Joseph, known for his ability to interpret dreams, responds to Pharaoh's request, emphasizing that he cannot do it alone, but God will provide the answer. This interaction sets the stage for Joseph's rise to prominence in Egypt and showcases the theme of divine providence throughout the narrative.
Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 40:8 | “We both had dreams,” they replied, “but there is no one to interpret them.” Then Joseph said to them, “Don’t interpretations belong to God? Tell me your dreams.” |
| 2 | Numbers 12:6 | He said, “Hear now My words: If there is a prophet among you, I, the LORD, will reveal Myself to him in a vision; I will speak to him in a dream. |
| 3 | 2 Kings 6:27 | He answered, “If the LORD does not help you, where can I find help for you? From the threshing floor or the winepress?” |
| 4 | Daniel 2:18–23 | urging them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his friends would not be killed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. |
| 5 | Daniel 4:2 | I am pleased to declare the signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me. |
The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge — 11 references, hung on the phrase they belong to
The Key Word — שְׁלֹום, she.Lomgenerated
The Hebrew word שָׁלוֹם (*shalom*) conveys a rich meaning that includes peace, completeness, and welfare. It is often used in contexts that describe a state of well-being, both physically and spiritually. The parsing as a masculine singular construct indicates that it is used here to refer specifically to the type of answer that will be given to Pharaoh, emphasizing its positive and beneficial nature.
In this verse, שָׁלוֹם underscores the importance of the answer that God will provide. It is not merely an answer, but one that embodies wholeness and peace, reflecting God's intention for Pharaoh's situation.
How Translations Differ — measured against the Berean Standard Biblegenerated
The translations generally agree that Joseph asserts God's role in providing an answer for Pharaoh.
Sentence Structuregenerated
The finite verb וַיַּ֨עַן, and he answered, governs the entire verse. It is followed by Joseph's identification as the subject, and then the object of the answer is introduced with the object marker אֶת־.
The structure of the sentence emphasizes Joseph's response to Pharaoh, with a clear distinction between his own limitations and God's capability. The prepositional phrase בִּלְעָדָ֑י (apart from me) further clarifies Joseph's reliance on divine assistance.
Septuagint Backgroundgenerated
The Septuagint translates the Hebrew עָנָה as ἀποκριθεὶς, indicating a response or answer. This choice aligns closely with the Hebrew meaning of responding, but it also carries a nuance of formality in the Greek context.
The translation of שְׁלֹום is not specified in the provided data, but the overall structure reflects the importance of the answer's quality, which is consistent across both texts.
In plain words — the whole versegenerated
Genesis 41:16 shows Joseph responding to Pharaoh, stating that he cannot interpret the dream without God's help. He assures Pharaoh that God will provide a complete and peaceful answer, highlighting the importance of divine assistance in understanding.
Frequently Asked Questionsgenerated
Joseph acknowledges his own limitations and emphasizes that true interpretation comes from God.
Joseph highlights that the ability to interpret dreams is a divine gift, showing his reliance on God rather than his own abilities.
The word 'sound' indicates that the answer will be complete and beneficial, reflecting God's intention for Pharaoh's well-being.
This moment leads to Joseph's rise in Egypt, showcasing how God uses him to fulfill His plans and provide for the people during a time of famine.
Reflection Questionsgenerated
- In what areas of my life do I need to rely more on God's guidance and less on my own understanding?
- How can I recognize and appreciate the ways God provides answers in my life?
- What does it mean for me to seek peace and completeness in my own circumstances?
- How can I share the understanding of God's provision with others in my community?
The early church on this verse — how the Fathers read it
Jerome comments on this verse, highlighting the necessity of divine intervention for Pharaoh's salvation.
And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying: Without God, salvation will not be given to Pharaoh. In Hebrew, it is different: Without me, God will answer peace to Pharaoh.Early Church Fathers on Genesis 41 →
Commentators on this verse — 7 expositors, verse by verse
Each of these wrote on Genesis 41:16 itself, not merely on the chapter around it.
John Gill1697–1771Gill's Exposition of the Entire BibleAnd Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, [it is] not in me,.... Which expresses his great modesty, that he did not arrogate such skill and wisdom to himself; declaring that he had no such power and
Read John Gill on Genesis 41 →Robert Jamieson1802–1880Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown's CommentaryAnd Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I have dreamed a dream, and there is none that can interpret it: and I have heard say of thee, that thou canst understand a dream to interpret it. Pharaoh said ... I have dreamed a dream.
Read Robert Jamieson on Genesis 41 →Matthew Poole1624–1679Matthew Poole's Commentary on the Holy BibleI cannot do this by any power, or virtue, or art of my own, for I am but a man, as your magicians are, but only by inspiration from the great God. Thus he gives the honour from himself unto God, and leads Pharaoh to the knowledge of the true God. For the phrase compare . God shall give; or, may God give, & c. It is my desire that God would vouchsafe to Pharaoh a comfortable and happy answer.
Read Matthew Poole on Genesis 41 →John Trapp1601–1669Trapp's Complete Commentary on the Old and New TestamentsGenesis 41:16 And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, [It is] not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace. Ver. 16. It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh, &c.] This is the voice of all that have true worth in them: they are humble upon the knowledge of their perfections; they vilify and nullify themselves before God and men: like true balm, that put into water, sinks to the bottom; or like a vessel cast into the sea, which the more it fills, the deeper it sinks. And this is the bottom and bosom of humility, and very next degree to exaltation, as here.
Read John Trapp on Genesis 41 →AdamClarkeAdam Clarke's Commentary on the BibleVerse 16. It is not in me, c.] בלעדי biladai, without or independently of me - I am not essential to thy comfort, God himself has thee under his care. And he will send thee, or answer thee, peace thou shalt have prosperity (שלום shelom) howsoever ominous thy dreams may appear. By this answer he not only conciliated the mind of the king, but led him to expect his help from that GOD from whom alone all comfort, protection, and prosperity, must proceed.
Read AdamClarke on Genesis 41 →CambridgeThe Cambridge Bible for Schools and Colleges16. It is not in me] Rather, “nay, far from it,” as in Genesis 14:24. Joseph, as in Genesis 40:8, disclaims any power in himself. God’s servant may be His propheta, or spokesman; but he is not as God, nor is he a magician. an answer of peace] Joseph replies, with suitable courtesy, literally, “God will make answer with the peace of Pharaoh.” The answer of God will be the well-being of Pharaoh. “Peace,” i.e. “welfare,” as in Genesis 37:14, “whether it be well,” lit. “peace.” LXX ἄνευτοῦθεοῦοὐκἀποκριθήσεταιτὸσωτήριον, the meaning of which is doubtful: “without God there will be no answer of peace.” Lat. absque me Deus respondebit prospera Pharaoni. The Syriac makes a question of it, “Thinkest…
Read Cambridge on Genesis 41 →Daniel Denison Whedon1808–1885Whedon's Commentary on the Bible16. God shall give… peace — Literally, God shall answer the peace of Pharaoh. Joseph emphatically points out the divine and supernatural aspect of the dreams, and takes no glory to himself.
Read Daniel Denison Whedon on Genesis 41 →The verse in English, compared — 17 translations, and where they part company
Every translation on this page is a decision someone had to make and commit to. Read down a column and you see one translator's judgement; read across a row and you see the range the Greek actually allows. The BSB is the wording the rest of this page is measured against, so it is listed first.
Modern formal
“I myself cannot do it,” Joseph replied, “but God will give Pharaoh a sound answer.”
Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, “It isn’t in me. God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace.”
“I myself cannot do it,” Joseph replied, “but God will give Pharaoh a sound answer.”
Joseph replied to Pharaoh, “It is not within my power, but God will speak concerning the welfare of Pharaoh.”
Tyndale line
And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.
And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace.
And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.
And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace.
And Ioseph answered Pharaoh, saying, Without me God shall answere for the wealth of Pharaoh.
Strictly literal
And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me: God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace.
and Joseph answereth Pharaoh, saying, 'Without me — God doth answer Pharaoh with peace.'
and Joseph answers Pharaoh, saying, “Without me—God answers Pharaoh with peace.”
And Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, It is not in me; God will give an answer for the peace of Pharaoh.
Joseph answered Pharaoh, saying, “It is not in me. God will answer Pharaoh with favor.”
From the Latin
Joseph answered: Without me, God shall give Pharao a prosperous answer.
Simplified
“It's not me who can do this,” Joseph replied. “But God will explain its meaning to set Your Majesty's mind at rest.”
Then Joseph said, Without God there will be no answer of peace for Pharaoh.
Counted from the translations carried on this site, not from a survey of every English Bible. A rendering shared by many versions is usually inherited rather than independently arrived at — the Tyndale line in particular runs through most of them.
The sentence as the grammar sees it — from the MACULA Hebrew treebank
This is not our own analysis: it is the scholarly syntax tree for the verse, showing how the clause actually holds together.
Boxes are the grammarian's groupings — clause, noun phrase, prepositional phrase.
The four witnesses to this verse — Masoretic, Septuagint, Samaritan, Qumran
The Masoretic Text presents the verse as it is traditionally known, while the Samaritan Pentateuch differs by including the word לא (not), which alters the meaning slightly to suggest that without God, Pharaoh will not receive an answer. The Dead Sea Scrolls show partial restoration, with some words supplied by an editor, indicating a similar understanding to the Masoretic Text.
וַיַּ֨עַן יוֹסֵ֧ף אֶת־ פַּרְעֹ֛ה לֵאמֹ֖ר בִּלְעָדָ֑י אֱלֹהִ֕ים יַעֲנֶ֖ה אֶת־ שְׁל֥וֹם פַּרְעֹֽה׃
8 of the 11 words are matched. This is the word-by-word correspondence, not the Septuagint's own sentence — its word order and its articles are its own.
ויען יוסף את פרעה לאמר בלעדי אלהים לא יענה את שׁלום פרעה
1 word differs from the Masoretic Text: לא (not)
[ויען] [יוסף] [את] [פרעה] [לאמר] [בלעד׳י] אלהים לא יענה את שלום פרעה
3 words on the leather — 3 partly restored, 6 supplied entire by an editor.
Four traditions, not one. “On the leather” means the letters physically survive on the scroll, as against letters an editor has supplied to fill a hole in it — a restoration is a scholar’s reading, not a reading of the manuscript. Words in [square brackets] are supplied; the notes count them apart from what survives.
The map of this verse — what each word keeps company with
This is a map of two things, both counted rather than judged. Company kept: which words stand within three words of each of these, anywhere in the Hebrew Bible — the thicker the line, the more often the pair meet compared with chance. Built from: the words a word is made out of, taken from its own Strong’s entry. It is not a map of meaning: nothing here claims two words mean the same thing. Click any circle to see the numbers behind it.
Lexicons — every word in Genesis 41:16
One dossier per word, with every reference work grouped by kind — Hebrew lexicons, morphology, Bible dictionaries, topical chains and the English of the translators themselves. The verse sits at the head of each block with the word under study lit, so you never lose your place. The panel above gives the short answer; this is the long one, and it is the part of the page worth indexing.
Every entry below is the lexicographer's own text. On the Hebrew: Brown-Driver-Briggs entire and its gloss set, Strong's Hebrew Dictionary, and Tyndale House's Translators Brief lexicon. Where a cell says a work has no entry, that work genuinely has none for this word.
The Hebrew word עָנָה (*anah*) is built from a primitive root meaning to heed or pay attention, covering a range of meanings including to answer, respond, testify, and sing. It appears in contexts where one responds to speech or circumstances, and can also refer to singing. The lexicons indicate that it can imply both verbal responses and musical expression.
[עוּן] vb. dwell
base
עָנָה 316 vb. answer, respond
Qal
answer, respond to sthg. said, actual or implied
respond to an occasion, speak in view of circumstances
money meets all demands
specif. respond as a witness, testify
less oft. make response as one accused (respondent)
Niph.
make answer
be answered
Hiph. wholly dub.; causes all things to respond in the joy of his heart
base
עָנָה vb. sing
Qal sing, utter tunefully
Pi. sing sweetly of it
base
H6030a עוּן dwell H6030b עָנָה answer, respond .. answer, respond to sthg. said, actual or implied
. . respond to an occasion, speak in view of circumstances
. money meets all demands
. . specif. respond as a witness, testify
. less oft. make response as one accused (respondent)
. . make answer
. be answered
. wholly dub.; causes all things to respond in the joy of his heart
H6030c עָנָה sing
6030 `anah aw-naw'
a primitive root; properly, to eye or (generally) to heed,
i.e. pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extens. to
begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout, testify,
announce:--give account, afflict (by mistake for 6031),
(cause to, give) answer, bring low (by mistake for 6031), cry,
hear, Leannoth, lift up, say, X scholar, (give a) shout, sing
(together by course), speak, testify, utter, (bear) witness.
See also 1042, 1043.
see HEBREW for 06031
see HEBREW for 06031
see HEBREW for 01042
see HEBREW for 01043
עוּן (un) — to dwell.
(Qal) to dwell
עָנָה (a.nah) — to answer.
1) to answer, respond, testify, speak, shout
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to answer, respond to
1a2) to testify, respond as a witness
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to make answer
1b2) to be answered, receive answer
Aramaic equivalent: a.nah (עֲנָה "to answer" H6032)
עָנָה (a.nah) — to sing.
(Qal) to sing, utter tunefully
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms — Verb · Qal · sequential imperfect third person masculine singularHc/Vqw3ms
יוֹסֵף (Yowceph) means 'he adds' or 'increases' and refers primarily to Joseph, the eldest son of Jacob and Rachel. The name appears in various contexts, including other individuals named Joseph, such as a man of Issachar, a son of Asaph, and a priest. The entries highlight his familial relationships and roles during different periods, including the Exile and Return.
יוֹסֵף 212 and יְהוֹסֵף n.pr.m. (he adds, increases)
elder son of Jacob and Rachael
a man of Issachar
a son of Asaph
one of those who took strange wives
a priest
base
H3130 יוֹסֵף and יְהוֹסֵף (he adds, increases) . elder son of Jacob and Rachael
. a man of Issachar
. a son of Asaph
. one of those who took strange wives
. a priest
3130 Yowceph yo-safe'
future of 3254; let him add (or perhaps simply active
participle adding); Joseph, the name of seven
Israelites:--Joseph. Compare 3084.
see HEBREW for 03254
see HEBREW for 03084
יוֹסֵף (yo.seph) — Joseph.
A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.30.24;
son of: Israel (H3478) and Rachel (H7354);
brother of: Benjamin (H1144);
half-brother of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074) and Dinah (H1783); married to Asenath (H0621);
father of: Manasseh (H4519) and Ephraim (H0669); also called Zaphenath-paneah at Gen.41.45;
§ Joseph = "Jehovah has added"
1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel
2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies
3) a son of Asaph
4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra
5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah
יוֹסֵף (yo.seph) — Joseph.
A man living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, only mentioned at Num.13.7;
father of: Igal (H3008)
N-proper — Noun proper masculineHNpm
Joseph
Remover or increaser. (1.) The elder of the two sons of Jacob by Rachel (Gen. 30:23, 24), who, on the occasion of his birth, said, “God hath taken away [Heb. ‘asaph] my reproach.” “The Lord shall add [Heb. yoseph] to me another son” (Gen. 30:24). He was a child of probably six years of age when his father returned from Haran to Canaan and took up his residence in the old patriarchal town of Hebron. “Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age,” and he “made him a long garment with sleeves” (Gen. 37:3, R.V. marg.), i.e., a garment long and full, such as was worn by the children of nobles. This seems to be the correct rendering of the words. The phrase, however, may also be…
(increase). The elder of the two sons of Jacob by Rachel. He was born in Padan-aram (Mesopotamia), probably about B.C. 1746. He is first mentioned when a youth, seventeen years old. Joseph brought the evil report of his brethren to his father, and they hated him because his father loved him more than he did them, and had shown his preference by making a dress which appears to have been a long tunic with sleeves, worn by youths and maidens of the richer class. (Genesis 37:2) He dreamed a dream foreshadowing his future power, which increased the hatred of his brethren. (Genesis 37:5-7) He was sent by his father to visit his brothers, who were tending flocks in the fields of Dothan. They resolved to kill him, but he was saved by Reuben, who persuaded the brothers to cast Joseph into…
1. The son of Jacob and his beloved Rachel, born in Mesopotamia, Ge 30:22-24, B. C. 1747. He is memorable for the wonderful providence of God, which raised him from a prison to be the grandvizier of Egypt, and made him the honored means of saving countless human lives. His history is one of the most pleasing and instructive in the Bible; and is related in language inimitably natural, simple, and touching. It is too beautiful for abridgment, and too familiar to need rehearsal. It throws much light on the superintending providence of God, as embracing all things, great and small in the perpetual unfolding of his universal plan. No narrative in the Bible more strikingly illustrates the protective and elevating power of the fear of God, and its especial value for the young. To behold this lovely image of filial piety and unwavering…
increase; addition
אֵת (eth) is primarily a grammatical marker in Hebrew, indicating the definite direct object of a verb. It is not translated into English and typically precedes nouns that are definite. The word is derived from a demonstrative sense of entity, related to the Hebrew word for 'self.' Its Aramaic equivalent is יָת (yat).
אֵת the mark of the accusative, prefixed as a rule only to nouns that are definite
base
H853 אֵת the mark of the accusative, prefixed as a rule only to nouns that are definite
853 'eth ayth
apparent contracted from 226 in the demonstrative sense of
entity; properly, self (but generally used to point out more
definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or
namely):--(as such unrepresented in English).
see HEBREW for 0226
אֵת (et) — [Obj.].
sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative
Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
HTo — ParticleHTo
The Hebrew word פַּרְעֹה (*par'oh*) means 'Pharaoh,' which is a title for Egyptian kings. It is derived from Egyptian and is commonly associated with various rulers mentioned throughout the Old Testament, including those during the time of the Patriarchs and the Divided Monarchy. The term translates to 'great house,' reflecting its significance in ancient Egypt.
פַּרְעֹה 275 n.m. Pharaoh, title of Egyptian kings
base
H6547 פַּרְעֹה Pharaoh, title of Egyptian kings
6547 Par`oh par-o'
of Egyptian derivation; Paroh, a general title of Egyptian
kings:--Pharaoh.
פַּרְעֹה (par.oh) — Pharaoh.
A man of the Egyptians living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.12.15
§ Pharaoh = "great house"
the common title of the king of Egypt
פַּרְעֹה (par.oh) — Pharaoh.
A man of the Egyptians living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.37.36
Also named: Pharaō (Φαραώ "Pharaoh" G5328)
§ Pharaoh = "great house"
the common title of the king of Egypt
פַּרְעֹה (par.oh) — Pharaoh.
A man of the Egyptians living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.1.11
Also named: Pharaō (Φαραώ "Pharaoh" G5328H)
§ Pharaoh = "great house"
the common title of the king of Egypt
פַּרְעֹה (par.oh) — Pharaoh.
A man of the Egyptians living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.3.10
Also named: Pharaō (Φαραώ "Pharaoh" G5328I)
§ Pharaoh = "great house"
N-proper — NounHNtmsa
fa'-ro, fa'-ra-o (par`oh; Pharao); Egyptian per aa, "great house"):em; the King James Version Pharacim): One of the families of temple-servants who returned with Zerubbabel (1 Esdras 5:31; not found in Ezra or Nehemiah).
1. The Use of Name in Egypt:
Many and strange differences of opinion have been expressed concerning the use of this name in Egypt and elsewhere, because of its importance in critical discussions (see below). Encyclopaedia Biblica says "a name given to all Egyptian kings in the Bible"; it also claims that the name could not have been received by the Hebrews before 1000 BC. HDB (III, 819) says that a letter was addressed to Amenhotep as "Pharaoh, lord of," etc. According to Winckler's theory of a North Arabian Musri, it was the Hebrews alone in ancient times who adopted the term Pharaoh from the Egyptians, the name not being found even in the Tell el-Amarna Letters or…
Pharaoh
The official title borne by the Egyptian kings down to the time when that country was conquered by the Greeks. (See EGYPT.) The name is a compound, as some think, of the words Ra, the “sun” or “sun-god,” and the article phe, “the,” prefixed; hence phera, “the sun,” or “the sun-god.” But others, perhaps more correctly, think the name derived from Perao, “the great house” = his majesty = in Turkish, “the Sublime Porte.”
(1.) The Pharaoh who was on the throne when Abram went down into Egypt (Gen. 12:10-20) was probably one of the Hyksos, or “shepherd kings.” The Egyptians called the nomad tribes of Syria Shasu, “plunderers,” their king or chief Hyk, and hence the name of those invaders who conquered the native kings and established a strong government, with Zoan or Tanis as their capital. They were of…
the common title of the native kings of Egypt in the Bible, corresponding to P-ra or Ph-ra "the sun," of the hieroglyphics. Brugsch, Ebers and other modern Egyptologists define it to mean ’the great house," which would correspond to our "the Sublime Porte." As several kings are mentioned only by the title "Pharaoh" in the Bible, it is important to endeavor to discriminate them: The Pharaoh of Abraham . (Genesis 12:15) --At the time at which the patriarch went into Egypt, it is generally held that the country, or at least lower Egypt, was ruled by the Shepherd kings, of whom the first and moat powerful line was the fifteenth dynasty, the undoubted territories of which would be first entered by one coming from the east. The date at which Abraham visited Egypt was about B.C. 2081, which would accord with the time of Salatis the head of…
Is properly an Egyptian word adopted into the Hebrew, and signifies king; so that when we find this name it means everywhere the king. Thus, also, Pharaoh Hophra is simply king Hophra.
Of the kings of Egypt, there are not less than twelve or thirteen mentioned in Scripture, all of whom bore the general title of Pharaoh, except four. Along with this title, two of them have also other proper names, Necho and Hophra. The following is their order. Some of them have been identified, by the labors of Champollion and others, with kings whose proper names we know from other sources, while others still remain in obscurity. Indeed, so brief, obscure, and conflicting are the details of Egyptian history and ancient chronology, which no name before that of Shishak can be regarded as identified beyond dispute.
אָמַר (amar) is a Hebrew verb meaning 'to say' or 'to utter,' with a broad range of uses including to promise, command, or even boast. It appears in various forms, such as in the Qal (to say), Niphal (to be told), and Hiphil (to avow). The entries highlight its versatility in both spoken and internal contexts, though no specific verse is noted.
אָמַר 5287 vb. utter, say
Qal
Say
Say in the heart (= think)
Promise
Command (esp. late)
Niph. be said, told
Hiph. avow, avouch (lit. cause to declare)
Hithp. act proudly, boast
base
H559 אָמַר utter, say .. Say
. Say in the heart (= think)
. Promise
. Command (esp. late)
. be said, told
. avow, avouch (lit. cause to declare)
. act proudly, boast
559 'amar aw-mar'
a primitive root; to say (used with great
latitude):--answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call,
certify, challenge, charge, + (at the, give) command(-ment),
commune, consider, declare, demand, X desire, determine, X
expressly, X indeed, X intend, name, X plainly, promise,
publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), X still, X
suppose, talk, tell, term, X that is, X think, use (speech),
utter, X verily, X yet.
אָמַר (a.mar) — to say.
1) to say, speak, utter
1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend
1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called
1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly
1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch
Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
HR/Vqcc — Preposition · verb qal infinitive construct commonHR/Vqcc
בִּלְעֲדֵי (bil'adey) is a Hebrew word meaning 'not unto,' 'apart from,' 'except,' or 'without.' It is constructed from two roots, one related to 'not' and the other to 'till.' The word is used in contexts indicating exclusion or absence.
בִּלְעֲדֵי prop. not unto, hence apart from, except, without
base
H1107 בִּלְעֲדֵי prop. not unto, hence apart from, except, without
1107 bil`adey bil-ad-ay'
or balmadey {bal-ad-ay'}; constructive plural from 1077 and
5703, not till, i.e. (as preposition or adverb) except,
without, besides:--beside, not (in), save, without.
see HEBREW for 01077
see HEBREW for 05703
בִּלְעֲדֵי (bil.a.de) — beside.
apart from, except, without, besides
Prep | Suff — SuffixHAcbsc/Sp1bs
אֱלֹהִים (elohiym) is a plural noun meaning 'gods' or 'God,' often referring to the supreme deity in the Old Testament. It encompasses divine beings, rulers, and judges, reflecting divine majesty and power. The term can also denote angels and is used in a superlative sense. Notably, it is sometimes combined with יהוה (YHWH), the personal name of God.
אֱלֹהִים 2570 n.m.pl.
pl. in number.
rulers, judges, either as divine representatives at sacred places or as reflecting divine majesty and power
divine ones, superhuman beings including God and angels
angels
gods
pl. intensive
god or goddess
godlike one
works of God, or things belongng to him
God
הָאֱלֹהִים the (true) God
אֱלֹהִים = God
base
H430 אֱלֹהִים n. m. pl. . pl. in number. . rulers, judges, either asdivine representatives at sacred places or as reflecting divine majesty and power
. divine ones, superhuman beings including God and angels
. angels
. gods
. pl. intensive . god or goddess
. godlike one
. works of God, or things belongng to him
. God
. הָאֱלֹהִים the (true) God
. אֱלֹהִים = God
430 'elohiym el-o-heem'
plural of 433; gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically
used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the
supreme God; occasionally applied by way of deference to
magistrates; and sometimes as a superlative:--angels, X
exceeding, God (gods)(-dess, -ly), X (very) great, judges, X
mighty.
see HEBREW for 0433
אֱלֹהִים (e.lo.him) — God.
This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God"
Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
אֱלֹהִים (e.lo.him) — (LORD)-Elohe.
Combined with ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068)
אֱלֹהִים (e.lo.him) — (Gibeath)-elohim.
Combined with giv.ah (גִּבְעָה "Gibeath" H1389)
N-mp — Noun common · masculine plural absoluteHNcmpa
god ('Elohim, 'El, [`Elyon], Shadday, Yahweh; Theos):
I. INTRODUCTION TO THE GENERAL IDEA
1. The Idea in Experience and in Thought
2. Definition of the Idea
3. The Knowledge of God
4. Ethnic Ideas of God
(1) Animism
(2) Fetishism
(3) Idolatry
(4) Polytheism
(5) Henotheism
(6) Pantheism
(7) Deism
(8) Semitic Monolatry
(9) Monotheism
II. THE IDEA OF GOD IN THE OLD TESTAMENT
1. The Course of Its Development
2. Forms of Its Manifestation
(1) The Face or Countenance of God
(2) The Voice and Word of God
(3) The Glory of God
(4) The Angel of God
(5) The Spirit of God
(6) The Name of God
(7) Occasional Forms
3. The Names of God
(1) Generic
(2) Attributive
(3) Yahweh
4. Pre-prophetic Conceptions of God
(1) Yahweh Alone Is the God of Israel
(a) His Early Worship
(b) Popular Religion
(c) Polytheistic Tendencies
(i) Coordination
(ii) Assimilation
(iii) Disintegration
(d) No Hebrew Goddesses
(e) Human Sacrifices
God
(A.S. and Dutch God; Dan. Gud; Ger. Gott), the name of the Divine Being. It is the rendering (1) of the Hebrew ’El, from a word meaning to be strong; (2) of ’Eloah_, plural _’Elohim. The singular form, Eloah, is used only in poetry. The plural form is more commonly used in all parts of the Bible, The Hebrew word Jehovah (q.v.), the only other word generally employed to denote the Supreme Being, is uniformly rendered in the Authorized Version by “LORD,” printed in small capitals. The existence of God is taken for granted in the Bible. There is nowhere any argument to prove it. He who disbelieves this truth is spoken of as one devoid of understanding (Ps. 14:1).
The arguments generally adduced by theologians in proof of the being of God are:
(1.) The a priori argument, which is the testimony afforded by reason.
(good). Throughout the Hebrew Scriptures two chief names are used for the one true divine Being--ELOHIM, commonly translated God in our version, and JEHOVAH, translated Lord . Elohim is the plural of Eloah (in Arabic Allah); it is often used in the short form EL (a word signifying strength , as in EL-SHADDAI, God Almighty, the name by which God was specially known to the patriarchs. (Genesis 17:1; 28:3; Exodus 6:3) The etymology is uncertain, but it is generally agreed that the primary idea is that of strength, power of effect , and that it properly describes God in that character in which he is exhibited to all men in his works, as the creator, sustainer and supreme governor of the world. The plural form of Elohim has given rise to much discussion. The fanciful idea that it…
This name, the derivation of which is uncertain, we give to that eternal, infinite, perfect, and incomprehensible Being, the Creator of all things, who preserves and governs all by his almighty power and wisdom, and is the only proper object of worship. The proper Hebrew name for God is JEHOVAH, which signifies He is. But the Jews, from a feeling of reverence, avoid pronouncing this name, substituting for it, wherever it occurs in the sacred test, the word ADONAI, Lord; except in the expression, ADONAI JEHOVAH, Lord Jehovah, for which they put, ADONAI ELOHIM, Lord God. This usage, which is not without an element of superstition, is very ancient, dating its origin some centuries before Christ; but there is no good ground for assuming its existence in the days of the inspired Old Testament writers. The proper word for God is ELOHIM, which is plural in its form, being thus used to signify…
The Hebrew word עָנָה (*anah*) is built from a primitive root meaning to heed or pay attention, covering a range of meanings including to answer, respond, testify, and sing. It appears in contexts where one responds to speech or circumstances, and can also refer to singing. The lexicons indicate that it can imply both verbal responses and musical expression.
[עוּן] vb. dwell
base
עָנָה 316 vb. answer, respond
Qal
answer, respond to sthg. said, actual or implied
respond to an occasion, speak in view of circumstances
money meets all demands
specif. respond as a witness, testify
less oft. make response as one accused (respondent)
Niph.
make answer
be answered
Hiph. wholly dub.; causes all things to respond in the joy of his heart
base
עָנָה vb. sing
Qal sing, utter tunefully
Pi. sing sweetly of it
base
H6030a עוּן dwell H6030b עָנָה answer, respond .. answer, respond to sthg. said, actual or implied
. . respond to an occasion, speak in view of circumstances
. money meets all demands
. . specif. respond as a witness, testify
. less oft. make response as one accused (respondent)
. . make answer
. be answered
. wholly dub.; causes all things to respond in the joy of his heart
H6030c עָנָה sing
6030 `anah aw-naw'
a primitive root; properly, to eye or (generally) to heed,
i.e. pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extens. to
begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout, testify,
announce:--give account, afflict (by mistake for 6031),
(cause to, give) answer, bring low (by mistake for 6031), cry,
hear, Leannoth, lift up, say, X scholar, (give a) shout, sing
(together by course), speak, testify, utter, (bear) witness.
See also 1042, 1043.
see HEBREW for 06031
see HEBREW for 06031
see HEBREW for 01042
see HEBREW for 01043
עוּן (un) — to dwell.
(Qal) to dwell
עָנָה (a.nah) — to answer.
1) to answer, respond, testify, speak, shout
1a) (Qal)
1a1) to answer, respond to
1a2) to testify, respond as a witness
1b) (Niphal)
1b1) to make answer
1b2) to be answered, receive answer
Aramaic equivalent: a.nah (עֲנָה "to answer" H6032)
עָנָה (a.nah) — to sing.
(Qal) to sing, utter tunefully
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms — Verb · Qal · imperfect third person masculine singularHVqi3ms
an'-ser: In our English Bible the word "answer" does not always mean a simple reply to a question.
1. In the Old Testament:
Six different words are translated by answer.
(1) It is frequently used where no question has been asked and in such cases it means a word, a statement.
(2) It also means a response (Job 21:34; 34:36).
(3) It often means a declaration or proclamation from God where no question has been asked. See the many passages that read: "The Lord answered and said."
Besides the common use of this word in the sense of to reply, it is very often used in the bible, following the Hebrew and Greek idioms, in the sense of to speak; meaning simply that one begins or resumes his discourse, Zec 3:4; 6:4; Mt 11:25; 12:38; Lu 7:40. It also means, to sing in choruses or responses, 1Sa 18:7; and to give account of one’s self in judgment, Ge 30:33; Job 9:3.
אֵת (eth) is primarily a grammatical marker in Hebrew, indicating the definite direct object of a verb. It is not translated into English and typically precedes nouns that are definite. The word is derived from a demonstrative sense of entity, related to the Hebrew word for 'self.' Its Aramaic equivalent is יָת (yat).
אֵת the mark of the accusative, prefixed as a rule only to nouns that are definite
base
H853 אֵת the mark of the accusative, prefixed as a rule only to nouns that are definite
853 'eth ayth
apparent contracted from 226 in the demonstrative sense of
entity; properly, self (but generally used to point out more
definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or
namely):--(as such unrepresented in English).
see HEBREW for 0226
אֵת (et) — [Obj.].
sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative
Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
HTo — ParticleHTo
שָׁלוֹם (shalom) conveys a range of meanings including completeness, soundness, welfare, and peace. It can refer to physical safety and health, as well as emotional states like tranquility and friendship, particularly in human relationships and with God. The word is derived from a root meaning 'to be complete' and is used in various contexts, including greetings.
שָׁלוֹם 237 n.m. completeness, soundness, welfare, peace
completeness in no.
safety, soundness, in body
welfare, health, prosperity
peace, quiet, tranquility, contentment
peace, friendship
peace from war
as adj. those at peace with him
base
H7965 שָׁלוֹם completeness, soundness, welfare, peace
7965 shalowm shaw-lome'
or shalom {shaw-lome'}; from 7999; safe, i.e. (figuratively)
well, happy, friendly; also (abstractly) welfare, i.e. health,
prosperity, peace:--X do, familiar, X fare, favour, + friend,
X great, (good) health, (X perfect, such as be at)
peace(-able, -ably), prosper(-ity, -ous), rest, safe(-ty),
salute, welfare, (X all is, be) well, X wholly.
see HEBREW for 07999
שָׁלוֹם (sha.lom) — peace.
: peace
1) completeness, soundness, welfare, peace
1a) completeness (in number)
1b) safety, soundness (in body)
1c) welfare, health, prosperity
1d) peace, quiet, tranquillity, contentment
1e) peace, friendship
1e1) of human relationships
1e2) with God especially in covenant relationship
1f) peace (from war)
1g) peace (as adjective)
שָׁלוֹם (ye.ho.vah sha.lom) — Peace.
This name means completeness, peace
Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)
שָׁלוֹם (sha.lom) — peace: well-being.
: well-being
1) completeness, soundness, welfare, peace
1a) completeness (in number)
1b) safety, soundness (in body)
1c) welfare, health, prosperity
1d) peace, quiet, tranquillity, contentment
1e) peace, friendship
1e1) of human relationships
1e2) with God especially in covenant relationship
1f) peace (from war)
1g) peace (as adjective)
N-ms — Noun common · masculine singular constructHNcmsc
ov:
(1) In Anglo-Saxon, had the meaning "from," "away from" (as the strengthened form "off" has still), and was not used for genitive or possessive relations, these being expressed by special case-forms. In the Norman period, however, "of" was taken to represent the French de (a use well developed by the time of Chaucer), and in the Elizabethan period both senses of "of" were in common use. But after about 1600 the later force of the word became predominant, and in the earlier sense (which is now practically obsolete) it was replaced by other prepositions. In consequence the King James Version (and in some cases the Revised Version (British and American)) contains many uses of "of" that are no longer familiar--most of them, to be sure, causing no difficulty, but there still being a few responsible for real obscurities.
OF, preposition ov. [Gr.]
1. From or out of; proceeding from, as the cause, source, means, author or agent bestowing.
I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered to you. 1 Corinthians 11:1.
For it was of the Lord to harden their hearts. Joshua 11:1.
It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed.
Lamentations 3:1.
The whole disposing thereof is of the Lord. Proverbs 16:1.
Go, inquire of the Lord for me. 2 Chronicles 34:2.
That holy thing that shall be born of thee. Luke 1:1.
Hence of is the sign of the genitive case, the case that denotes production; as the son of man, the son proceeding from man, produced from man. This is the primary sense, although we now say, produced by man. 'Part of these were slain; ' that is, a number separate, for part denotes a division; the sense then is, a number from or out of the whole were slain. So also, 'some of these were slain; ' that is…
The Hebrew word פַּרְעֹה (*par'oh*) means 'Pharaoh,' which is a title for Egyptian kings. It is derived from Egyptian and is commonly associated with various rulers mentioned throughout the Old Testament, including those during the time of the Patriarchs and the Divided Monarchy. The term translates to 'great house,' reflecting its significance in ancient Egypt.
פַּרְעֹה 275 n.m. Pharaoh, title of Egyptian kings
base
H6547 פַּרְעֹה Pharaoh, title of Egyptian kings
6547 Par`oh par-o'
of Egyptian derivation; Paroh, a general title of Egyptian
kings:--Pharaoh.
פַּרְעֹה (par.oh) — Pharaoh.
A man of the Egyptians living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.12.15
§ Pharaoh = "great house"
the common title of the king of Egypt
פַּרְעֹה (par.oh) — Pharaoh.
A man of the Egyptians living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.37.36
Also named: Pharaō (Φαραώ "Pharaoh" G5328)
§ Pharaoh = "great house"
the common title of the king of Egypt
פַּרְעֹה (par.oh) — Pharaoh.
A man of the Egyptians living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.1.11
Also named: Pharaō (Φαραώ "Pharaoh" G5328H)
§ Pharaoh = "great house"
the common title of the king of Egypt
פַּרְעֹה (par.oh) — Pharaoh.
A man of the Egyptians living at the time of Egypt and Wilderness, first mentioned at Exo.3.10
Also named: Pharaō (Φαραώ "Pharaoh" G5328I)
§ Pharaoh = "great house"
HNtmsa — NounHNtmsa
fa'-ro, fa'-ra-o (par`oh; Pharao); Egyptian per aa, "great house"):em; the King James Version Pharacim): One of the families of temple-servants who returned with Zerubbabel (1 Esdras 5:31; not found in Ezra or Nehemiah).
1. The Use of Name in Egypt:
Many and strange differences of opinion have been expressed concerning the use of this name in Egypt and elsewhere, because of its importance in critical discussions (see below). Encyclopaedia Biblica says "a name given to all Egyptian kings in the Bible"; it also claims that the name could not have been received by the Hebrews before 1000 BC. HDB (III, 819) says that a letter was addressed to Amenhotep as "Pharaoh, lord of," etc. According to Winckler's theory of a North Arabian Musri, it was the Hebrews alone in ancient times who adopted the term Pharaoh from the Egyptians, the name not being found even in the Tell el-Amarna Letters or…
Pharaoh
The official title borne by the Egyptian kings down to the time when that country was conquered by the Greeks. (See EGYPT.) The name is a compound, as some think, of the words Ra, the “sun” or “sun-god,” and the article phe, “the,” prefixed; hence phera, “the sun,” or “the sun-god.” But others, perhaps more correctly, think the name derived from Perao, “the great house” = his majesty = in Turkish, “the Sublime Porte.”
(1.) The Pharaoh who was on the throne when Abram went down into Egypt (Gen. 12:10-20) was probably one of the Hyksos, or “shepherd kings.” The Egyptians called the nomad tribes of Syria Shasu, “plunderers,” their king or chief Hyk, and hence the name of those invaders who conquered the native kings and established a strong government, with Zoan or Tanis as their capital. They were of…
the common title of the native kings of Egypt in the Bible, corresponding to P-ra or Ph-ra "the sun," of the hieroglyphics. Brugsch, Ebers and other modern Egyptologists define it to mean ’the great house," which would correspond to our "the Sublime Porte." As several kings are mentioned only by the title "Pharaoh" in the Bible, it is important to endeavor to discriminate them: The Pharaoh of Abraham . (Genesis 12:15) --At the time at which the patriarch went into Egypt, it is generally held that the country, or at least lower Egypt, was ruled by the Shepherd kings, of whom the first and moat powerful line was the fifteenth dynasty, the undoubted territories of which would be first entered by one coming from the east. The date at which Abraham visited Egypt was about B.C. 2081, which would accord with the time of Salatis the head of…
Is properly an Egyptian word adopted into the Hebrew, and signifies king; so that when we find this name it means everywhere the king. Thus, also, Pharaoh Hophra is simply king Hophra.
Of the kings of Egypt, there are not less than twelve or thirteen mentioned in Scripture, all of whom bore the general title of Pharaoh, except four. Along with this title, two of them have also other proper names, Necho and Hophra. The following is their order. Some of them have been identified, by the labors of Champollion and others, with kings whose proper names we know from other sources, while others still remain in obscurity. Indeed, so brief, obscure, and conflicting are the details of Egyptian history and ancient chronology, which no name before that of Shishak can be regarded as identified beyond dispute.