Genesis 39:2

Authorized King James Version

And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיְהִ֤י

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

יְהוָה֙

H3068

And the LORD

(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god

אֶת

H854

properly, nearness (used only as a preposition or an adverb), near; hence, generally, with, by, at, among, etc

יוֹסֵ֔ף

H3130

was with Joseph

joseph, the name of seven israelites

וַיְהִ֖י

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

אִ֣ישׁ

H582

properly, a mortal (and thus differing from the more dignified h0120); hence, a man in general (singly or collectively)

מַצְלִ֑יחַ

H6743

and he was a prosperous

to push forward, in various senses (literal or figurative, transitive or intransitive)

וַיְהִ֕י

H1961

to exist, i.e., be or become, come to pass (always emphatic, and not a mere copula or auxiliary)

בְּבֵ֥ית

H1004

and he was in the house

a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)

#10

אֲדֹנָ֖יו

H113

of his master

sovereign, i.e., controller (human or divine)

#11

הַמִּצְרִֽי׃

H4713

the Egyptian

a mitsrite, or inhabitant of mitsrajim

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through simile or metaphorical language. The theological weight of divine sovereignty connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine sovereignty, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Genesis.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of ancient Near Eastern narrative literature addressing origins and identity shapes this text's meaning. The development from creation to divine election established God's sovereign care over history Understanding a worldview where divine beings actively governed natural and historical processes helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine sovereignty in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

What practical applications emerge from understanding creation and providence as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?
How might the original audience's understanding of divine sovereignty differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of the progressive revelation of God's purposes throughout Scripture, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

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