King James Version
What Does Acts 7:18 Mean?
“Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph.”
Context
16
And were carried over into Sychem, and laid in the sepulchre that Abraham bought for a sum of money of the sons of Emmor the father of Sychem.
17
But when the time of the promise drew nigh, which God had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,
18
Till another king arose, which knew not Joseph.
19
The same dealt subtilly with our kindred, and evil entreated our fathers, so that they cast out their young children, to the end they might not live.
20
In which time Moses was born, and was exceeding fair, and nourished up in his father's house three months: exceeding fair: or, fair to God
Commentary
Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers(18) **Which knew not Joseph.**—The idiom was originally a Hebrew one, for “not remembering, not caring for;” but as the words are quoted from the LXX. they do not affect the question as to the language in which the speech was delivered.
Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of Acts. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
Acts 7:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to Acts 7:18
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge