Genesis 41:51

Authorized King James Version

And Joseph called the name of the firstborn Manasseh: For God, said he, hath made me forget all my toil, and all my father's house.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיִּקְרָ֥א

H7121

called

to call out to (i.e., properly, address by name, but used in a wide variety of applications)

יוֹסֵ֛ף

H3130

And Joseph

joseph, the name of seven israelites

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

שֵׁ֥ם

H8034

the name

an appellation, as a mark or memorial of individuality; by implication honor, authority, character

הַבְּכ֖וֹר

H1060

of the firstborn

first-born; hence, chief

מְנַשֶּׁ֑ה

H4519

Manasseh

menashsheh, a grandson of jacob, also the tribe descended from him, and its territory

כִּֽי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

נַשַּׁ֤נִי

H5382

said he hath made me forget

to forget; figuratively, to neglect; causatively, to remit, remove

אֱלֹהִים֙

H430

For God

gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of

#10

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#11

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#12

עֲמָלִ֔י

H5999

all my toil

toil, i.e., wearing effort; hence, worry, whether of body or mind

#13

וְאֵ֖ת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

#14

כָּל

H3605

properly, the whole; hence, all, any or every (in the singular only, but often in a plural sense)

#15

בֵּ֥ית

H1004

house

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

#16

אָבִֽי׃

and all my father's

father, in a literal and immediate, or figurative and remote application

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

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?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine sovereignty address questions about God's character and purposes in the modern world, and how should the church respond?
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?

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