MPV Commentary

1. Joseph presented himself to Pharaoh and said, "My father and my brothers have come." This was a beautiful example of a man who could navigate both prosperity and adversity with ease. Despite his high position, he didn't forget that he had a superior authority. He loved his father dearly and wanted to provide for the entire family, but he wouldn't finalize their arrangements in Goshen without Pharaoh's approval.

2. Joseph took some of his brothers with him, likely the five eldest, as seniority was considered a fair principle for selection.

4. When asked by Pharaoh how they planned to stay in Egypt, they replied according to their previous instructions, showing a faith and piety that gave hope for their spiritual well-being.

7. Joseph brought Jacob into the royal presence, creating a poignant scene. With simplicity and dignity, Jacob asked God's blessing on Pharaoh's head, making a powerful impression (compare Hebrews 7:7).

8. Pharaoh inquired about Jacob's age, driven by curiosity about this remarkable patriarch. In Egypt, people typically lived shorter lives than in Canaan due to the country's climate and artificial society.

9. Jacob replied that he was 130 years old, counting his days as few and evil because of the troubles he had faced throughout his life (compare Psalm 90:12).

11. Joseph placed his father and brothers in the best land available in Egypt, specifically Goshen, which offered rich pastureland suitable for Hebrew shepherds.

13-15. During the second year of the famine, there was no bread left in the land. People had exhausted their personal stores, and the government became responsible for providing food. Initially, they received supplies in exchange for payment, but soon money became scarce.

16. Joseph instructed the people to give up their livestock, which would be purchased by him and supported at the royal expense. This was a wise decision that benefited both the people and their animals.

21. To help those who were idle, Joseph relocated them to cities where corn stores were available.

22. However, he did not buy the land of the priests, as it was inalienable property supporting the temples. The priests received an annual allowance from the state, which would be cruel to withhold during a time of famine.

23-28. After selling their lands to the government (Genesis 47:19-20), Joseph announced that seed would be distributed for the first crop after the famine. The people would occupy these lands as tenants-at-will, paying a produce rent in exchange.

29-31. As Israel's time of death approached, he made one final arrangement: his remains were to be taken back to Canaan, not out of romantic attachment or superstition but due to faith in God's promises (compare Numbers 10:29). He asked Joseph for a solemn oath that his wishes would be fulfilled, demonstrating the intensity of his desire to enjoy God's blessings.