Genesis 41: Group Study Handout

Overview

In Genesis chapter 41, Joseph finds himself in the court of Pharaoh after two full years have passed since he interpreted the dreams of the chief cupbearer and the chief baker. Pharaoh has disturbing dreams that none of his magicians and wise men can interpret, prompting the cupbearer to remember Joseph's ability to interpret dreams. Joseph is summoned from prison, and with God's guidance, he reveals the meaning of Pharaoh's dreams: seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine.

Key verse

“Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Behold, I have set you over all the land of Egypt.”

Genesis 41:41 (WEB)

Outline

1. Genesis 41:1–8 Pharaoh's Troubling Dreams
2. Genesis 41:9–16 Cupbearer Remembers Joseph
3. Genesis 41:17–32 Joseph Interprets the Dreams
4. Genesis 41:33–36 Joseph's Advice to Pharaoh
5. Genesis 41:37–45 Joseph Appointed Over Egypt
6. Genesis 41:46–54 Joseph's Administration of Plenty
7. Genesis 41:55–57 Famine Strikes and Joseph's Role

Discussion questions

1. In v8, why does Pharaoh call for 'all of Egypt’s magicians and wise men'?
2. What does Joseph say to Pharaoh in v16 about interpreting dreams?
3. Joseph's interpretation in vv. 25-27: how does he connect the dreams to future events?
4. Pharaoh's statement in v38 about the 'Spirit of God': what does this imply about Joseph's abilities?
5. When have you had to rely on someone else's guidance, like Pharaoh did with Joseph?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Genesis 41: Daniel 2, Psalm 105, Daniel 5.

Before next time: read Genesis 42.