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Genesis 47:19

Wherefore shall we die before thine eyes, both we and our land? buy us and our land for bread, and we and our land will be servants unto Pharaoh: and give us seed, that we may live, and not die, that the land be not desolate.

Genesis 47:19 · King James Version

Meaning

The verse you have just read from the Bible reflects the desperate plea made by the people of Egypt during a time of famine. They were facing the threat of death due to lack of food and resources, and as a result, they offered themselves and their land as servants to Pharaoh in exchange for bread and seed. This verse illustrates the extent to which people were willing to go to survive in a time of crisis. It highlights the power dynamics at play, with the people willing to give up their freedom and resources to ensure their survival. The people's plea showcases the lengths individuals are willing to go to in order to prevent their land from becoming desolate, emphasizing the importance of basic necessities like food and shelter for human survival.

Theological Overview

In this verse from the book of Genesis, we see the desperation of the people of Egypt during a time of famine. They are willing to sell themselves and their land to Pharaoh in exchange for bread and seed to sustain them. This act of selling themselves and their land demonstrates the extreme measures people will take to survive in times of crisis. The theological interpretation of this verse can be viewed through the lens of providence and God's provision. Despite the dire circumstances, God is still present and working in the lives of the people, ultimately providing for their needs through the resources made available to them. The word "servants" in this verse can also be examined in a theological context, showing a dependence on a higher power and a recognition of human limitations. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of the importance of trust in God's provision in challenging times, even when it may seem like all hope is lost.

Genesis 47:19 in other translations

American Standard Version

wherefore should we die before thine eyes, both we and our land? buy us and our land for bread, and we and our land will be servants unto Pharaoh: and give us seed, that we may live, and not die, and that the land be not desolate.

World English Bible

Why should we die before your eyes, both we and our land? Buy us and our land for bread, and we and our land will be servants to Pharaoh. Give us seed, that we may live, and not die, and that the land won’t be desolate.”

Douay-Rheims

Why therefore shall we die before thy eyes? we will be thine, both we and our lands: buy us to be the king's servants, and give us seed, lest for want of tillers the land be turned into a wilderness.

Geneva Bible (1599)

Why shall we perish in thy sight, both we, and our land? bye vs and our land for bread, and we and our land will be bonde to Pharaoh: therefore giue vs seede, that we may liue and not dye, and that the land go not to waste.