Genesis 45:21 kjv

And the children of Israel did so: and Joseph gave them wagons, according to the commandment of Pharaoh, and gave them provision for the way.

Genesis 45:21 nkjv

Then the sons of Israel did so; and Joseph gave them carts, according to the command of Pharaoh, and he gave them provisions for the journey.

Genesis 45:21 niv

So the sons of Israel did this. Joseph gave them carts, as Pharaoh had commanded, and he also gave them provisions for their journey.

Genesis 45:21 esv

The sons of Israel did so: and Joseph gave them wagons, according to the command of Pharaoh, and gave them provisions for the journey.

Genesis 45:21 nlt

So the sons of Jacob did as they were told. Joseph provided them with wagons, as Pharaoh had commanded, and he gave them supplies for the journey.

Genesis 45 verses

Genesis 45 21 Meaning

Genesis 45:21 records the immediate actions taken after Pharaoh's generous invitation and Joseph's revelation to his brothers. It states that Jacob's sons carried out the instructions given, and Joseph, in line with Pharaoh's royal decree, provided them with wagons and provisions necessary for their journey to bring their father, Jacob, and the entire family to Egypt. This verse signifies a moment of practical provision and compliance, marking a pivotal step in the family's relocation to the land of Goshen.

Genesis 45 21 Context

Genesis chapter 45 marks the climax of the Joseph narrative. Having tested his brothers, Joseph finally reveals his true identity to them (vv. 1-15). This revelation leads to a mixture of fear and wonder among the brothers. Upon hearing of Joseph's living status and elevated position, Pharaoh, out of goodwill and recognizing Joseph's pivotal role, immediately extends an unprecedented invitation to Jacob and his entire household (vv. 16-20). Pharaoh's command is to relocate Jacob and his family to Egypt, specifically to the best of the land (Goshen), promising abundant provision without concern for their existing possessions. Verse 21 describes the practical execution of this royal decree. The brothers, now convinced and filled with hope, act immediately to comply with Joseph's (and Pharaoh's) instructions. Joseph, demonstrating his authority and the abundance of Egypt under his rule, furnishes them with the means for their significant journey back to Canaan and then to Egypt, thereby setting in motion the fulfillment of divine prophecy regarding Israel's sojourn in Egypt.

Genesis 45 21 Word analysis

• And: וַיַּעֲשׂוּ (vayyaʿaśu) - Begins with the Hebrew consecutive imperfect, emphasizing immediate, decisive action. It links directly to Pharaoh's commands in the preceding verses.
• the sons of Israel: בְנֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל (benei yiśrāʾēl) - This phrase specifically refers to Jacob's sons, Joseph's brothers. It underscores their identity as the progenitors of the future nation, highlighting the lineage central to God's covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Israel). The repetition of "Israel" ties their actions to their patriarchal heritage.
• did so: (kayv; from וַיַּעֲשׂוּ כֵּן, vayyaʿaśu ken) - Implies that they obeyed, or acted accordingly. This contrasts with their previous disunity and treachery towards Joseph, showcasing a newfound unity and compliance with divine ordering, channeled through Joseph and Pharaoh.
• and Joseph: וַיִּתֵּן לָהֶם יוֹסֵף (vayyitten lâhem yôsef) - "And Joseph gave to them." Emphasizes Joseph's active role as the provider. His position allows him to enact this royal decree. This is a complete turnaround from his prior suffering, demonstrating his divine exaltation and magnanimity.
• gave them: (lâhem) - Highlights Joseph's generosity and the transfer of resources directly to the brothers.
• wagons: עֲגָלֹת (ʿagâlôt) - Plural. These were substantial vehicles, likely drawn by oxen, suitable for transporting families, possessions, and an elderly man (Jacob) over long distances. Their provision by Pharaoh signifies a royal grant of honor, ensuring their comfortable journey and illustrating Egypt's wealth and hospitality. In ancient Egypt, wagons were more common for transport than in Canaan. Their use for the migration of Israel’s family is notable.
• according to the command of Pharaoh: עַל־פִּי פַּרְעֹה (ʿal-pî parʿōh) - Literally "by the mouth of Pharaoh." This phrase directly attributes the source of the provision to Pharaoh's authority. It underscores the official royal backing of Joseph's actions, demonstrating divine sovereignty working through the highest earthly powers. Pharaoh’s unprecedented generosity to a foreign family demonstrates God's favour on Joseph and, by extension, on the whole family of Jacob.
• and gave them provisions: וַיִּתֵּן לָהֶם צֵדָה (vayyitten lâhem tsêdâ) - "And he gave them travel supplies/food." Joseph's comprehensive provision includes not only transport but also sustenance. This ensures that their immediate physical needs are met for the duration of the journey, emphasizing practical care.
• for the journey: לַדֶּרֶךְ (ladderekh) - "for the way/road." This specifies the purpose of the provisions and wagons, which were exclusively for their specific travel, from Egypt to Canaan and back to Egypt. It points towards the purposeful movement guided by God’s plan.

Words-group analysis:

• "And the sons of Israel did so": This phrase succinctly conveys immediate obedience and compliance from Jacob's sons to the instructions given by Joseph (which came from Pharaoh). It shows a shift from their rebellious past to unified action, essential for the family's survival and future.
• "Joseph gave them wagons, according to the command of Pharaoh": This passage links Joseph's power and generosity directly to Pharaoh's authority. Joseph isn't just acting out of personal sentiment; his provisions are royally sanctioned and funded. The mention of Pharaoh emphasizes the high honor and security bestowed upon Jacob's family by the most powerful ruler of that time, demonstrating divine favor working through worldly leadership.
• "and gave them provisions for the journey": This highlights the completeness of the provision. Not just means of transport, but sustenance for the trip. It demonstrates the meticulous care for their needs, ensuring their well-being and successful relocation. It foreshadows God's faithful provision for Israel throughout their future journeys.

Genesis 45 21 Bonus section

• The provision of wagons in Genesis 45:21 stands in stark contrast to the Israelite departure during the Exodus, where they went forth primarily on foot (Ex 12:37). This highlights a significant difference in circumstances: here, Israel enters Egypt in comfort and honor by Pharaoh's explicit invitation and provision; later, they flee as freed slaves from Pharaoh's oppression, demonstrating God's diverse methods of working out His will.
• The term "wagons" (עֲגָלֹת, agalot) in the ancient Near East was a significant mode of transportation, especially for heavier goods and for conveying important individuals with dignity. The fact that Pharaoh ordered them to be provided underlines the great honor bestowed upon Jacob's family and Joseph's importance to the state.
• Pharaoh's command and Joseph's swift fulfillment were not only practical steps for relocation but also indirect fulfillments of God's covenant with Abraham concerning his descendants being strangers in a land not their own (Gen 15:13), setting the stage for the growth of the nation in Egypt.

Genesis 45 21 Commentary

Genesis 45:21 is a practical verse, illustrating the immediate consequences of the previous royal decree. It shows that Joseph's brothers, after years of deception and anxiety, responded promptly and obediently to the incredible command to bring their father to Egypt. Joseph, wielding the full authority of Pharaoh, demonstrated exceptional generosity and foresight, not merely giving an invitation but supplying all the necessary logistical means – sturdy wagons and ample provisions – for a large-scale family migration. This wasn't just Joseph's personal act of kindness but a state-sanctioned relocation, indicating divine providence working through the most powerful nation of the time to gather Abraham's lineage. The use of Egyptian "wagons" symbolizes the lavish honor and divine orchestration for the comfort of Jacob, facilitating the journey for the aging patriarch. This act of provision solidifies the narrative's themes of reconciliation and the overarching plan of God, who prepares a safe haven for His chosen family, ensuring their survival and growth before the grand Exodus.