Psalms 105:21
He made him lord of his house, and ruler of all his substance:
Original Language Analysis
שָׂמ֣וֹ
He made
H7760
שָׂמ֣וֹ
He made
Strong's:
H7760
Word #:
1 of 6
to put (used in a great variety of applications, literal, figurative, inferentially, and elliptically)
לְבֵית֑וֹ
of his house
H1004
לְבֵית֑וֹ
of his house
Strong's:
H1004
Word #:
3 of 6
a house (in the greatest variation of applications, especially family, etc.)
Historical Context
Pharaoh gave Joseph his signet ring, fine clothes, and complete administrative authority over Egypt (Gen 41:42-43). Only Pharaoh himself had greater authority. This unprecedented elevation of a foreign ex-prisoner demonstrated God's providence.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Joseph's faithful stewardship during testing prepare you to view trials as preparation for greater service?
- What does Christ's exaltation after humiliation teach about God's ultimate vindication of the faithful?
Analysis & Commentary
Pharaoh made Joseph 'lord of his house' and 'ruler of all his substance.' Complete authority was granted to the former prisoner. This dramatic reversal demonstrates God's ability to exalt the humble and faithful. Joseph became steward over Egypt's wealth and resources. This prefigures Christ's exaltation to God's right hand with all authority (Matt 28:18, Phil 2:9-11). The Reformed understanding of divine sovereignty recognizes that God determines who holds authority and for what purposes.