Genesis 47:4
They said moreover unto Pharaoh, For to sojourn in the land are we come; for thy servants have no pasture for their flocks; for the famine is sore in the land of Canaan: now therefore, we pray thee, let thy servants dwell in the land of Goshen.
Genesis 47:4 · King James Version
Meaning
When Joseph's brothers appeared before Pharaoh in Egypt, they explained the reason for their arrival in a land that was not their own. They told Pharaoh that they were shepherds and that there was a severe famine in Canaan, forcing them to seek pasture for their flocks elsewhere. They expressed their desire to settle in the land of Goshen, which was known for its fertile land and abundant resources. By requesting to dwell in Goshen, Joseph's brothers were not only seeking refuge from the famine but also hoping to establish a new home where they could thrive and prosper. This verse highlights the desperation of Joseph's brothers in the face of adversity and their willingness to seek help from a foreign ruler in order to ensure the survival of their families and livestock.
Theological Overview
One aspect of the theological interpretation of Genesis 47:4 is the importance of seeking refuge during times of hardship. In this verse, Joseph's brothers are requesting Pharaoh's permission to live in the land of Goshen due to the famine in Canaan. Their plea highlights the biblical principle of seeking shelter and sustenance in times of need. The term "sojourn" used in the verse indicates a temporary stay in a particular place, emphasizing the brothers' desire for a temporary refuge for themselves and their flocks. By acknowledging their vulnerability and seeking help from an external source, the brothers demonstrate reliance on God's provision through human agency. The word "servants" here also suggests humility and dependence on others, reflecting the biblical theme of interdependence within the community of believers. Ultimately, this verse reminds readers of the importance of seeking refuge and sustenance during times of hardship, trusting in God's provision through the support of others.
Genesis 47:4 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they said unto Pharaoh, To sojourn in the land are we come; for there is no pasture for thy servants' flocks; for the famine is sore in the land of Canaan: now therefore, we pray thee, let thy servants dwell in the land of Goshen.
World English Bible
They said to Pharaoh, “We have come to live as foreigners in the land, for there is no pasture for your servants’ flocks. For the famine is severe in the land of Canaan. Now therefore, please let your servants dwell in the land of Goshen.”
Douay-Rheims
We are come to sojourn in thy land, because there is no grass for the flocks of thy servants, the famine being very grievous in the land of Chanaan: and we pray thee to give orders that we thy servants may be in the land of Gessen.
Geneva Bible (1599)
They sayde moreouer vnto Pharaoh, For to soiourne in ye lande are we come: for thy seruants haue no pasture for their sheepe, so sore is ye famine in the lande of Canaan. Nowe therefore, we pray thee, let thy seruants dwel in the land of Goshen.