Genesis 40 - Introduction

(E.) Joseph interprets the Dreams of Pharaoh's Officers

The contents of this chapter are from E. Joseph's master (cf. Genesis 37:36) is the officer in whose house is the prison; and he commits to the charge of Joseph, his slave, the two court-officials whose dreams Joseph correctly interprets.

The section leads up to the dénouementin ch. 41. The details are skilfully drawn. The scene is pronounced by Egyptologists to be faithful to the conditions of Egyptian life in the 14th century b.c.

Though the narrative is from E, the Compiler endeavours to harmonize the account with that of J by inserting words in Genesis 40:3; Genesis 40:5; Genesis 40:15.

1 8. The two officers in prison.

9 19. The interpretation of their dreams.

20 23. Their fulfilment.