Genesis 41:33

33 Now therefore let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt.

Genesis 41:33 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 41:33

Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise,
&c.] Of good judgment and conduct, of abilities equal to the execution of a scheme hereafter proposed: it can scarcely be thought consistent with the great modesty of Joseph that he meant himself, or that indeed, he ventured to give any advice at all, until it was first asked of him by the king; who being so well satisfied with the interpretation of his dreams, thought him a proper person to consult with what to be done in this case; who, as a true father of his country, as every king should be, was concerned for the good of it, and to provide against the worst for them: and set him over the land of Egypt;
not to be governor of it in general, but with a particular respect to the present case, to take care of provision for it.

Genesis 41:33 In-Context

31 and the plenty will be unknown in the land by reason of the famine that will follow, for it will be very severe.
32 And the doubling of Pharaoh's dream means that the thing is fixed by God, and God will shortly bring it about.
33 Now therefore let Pharaoh select a discerning and wise man, and set him over the land of Egypt.
34 Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years.
35 And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh for food in the cities, and let them keep it.
The English Standard Version is published with the permission of Good News Publishers.