King James Version

What Does Genesis 41:43 Mean?

“And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Bow the knee: and he made him ruler over all the land of Egypt. Bow: or, Tender father: Heb. Abrech”

Context

And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt.

And Pharaoh took off his ring from his hand, and put it upon Joseph's hand, and arrayed him in vestures of fine linen, and put a gold chain about his neck; fine: or, silk

And he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Bow the knee: and he made him ruler over all the land of Egypt. Bow: or, Tender father: Heb. Abrech

And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, I am Pharaoh, and without thee shall no man lift up his hand or foot in all the land of Egypt.

And Pharaoh called Joseph's name Zaphnathpaaneah; and he gave him to wife Asenath the daughter of Potipherah priest of On. And Joseph went out over all the land of Egypt. Zaphnathpaaneah: which in the Coptic signifies, A revealer of secrets, or, The man to whom secrets are revealed priest: or, prince

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(43) **In the second chariot.**—The object of this procession was to display Joseph to the people as their new governor. The Pharaoh, probably, took the chief part in this parade, riding in the first chariot of state. **Bow the knee.**—Heb., *abrech. *Canon Cook explains this as meaning *rejoice, be happy. *It is in the imperative singular, and is addressed by the people to Joseph; for it is said “they cried before him,” that is, the multitude, and not a herald. Naturally, therefore, it is in the singular, as the *vivat rex *of the Middle Ages, or *vive le roi *now. The similarity of sound with *habrech, *bow the knee, is a mere chance and as this word also is singular, it must be addressed to Joseph, and not to the people.

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Genesis 41:43 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.