Book of Genesis - Chapter 41 - Verse 5
Meaning
When Joseph interpreted Pharaoh's dream of the seven fat cows and seven lean cows as symbolic of seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine, Pharaoh was amazed by Joseph's wisdom. In this verse, Joseph has another dream in which seven ears of corn come up on one stalk, healthy and full. This dream symbolizes the impending abundance and prosperity that Egypt will experience during the years of plenty. The fact that the ears of corn are "rank and good" indicates that the harvest will be bountiful and of high quality. This dream serves as a confirmation of Joseph's interpretation of Pharaoh's dream and reinforces the importance of preparing for the lean years ahead. Joseph's dream foreshadows the events that will unfold in Egypt and highlights the significance of interpreting dreams for divine guidance.
Theological Overview
The verse "And he slept and dreamed the second time: and, behold, seven ears of corn came up upon one stalk, rank and good" from Genesis 41:5, has been the subject of theological interpretation and word studies by biblical scholars. This dream of Pharaoh's servant, who was in prison with Joseph, is a significant moment in the story of Joseph in the Bible. The seven ears of corn coming up on one stalk is traditionally interpreted as a symbol of abundance and prosperity, which Joseph later interprets as seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. The word "rank" in this verse is often translated as "fat" or "plump," emphasizing the quality of the corn. This dream serves as a foreshadowing of the events to come, where Joseph's ability to interpret dreams will ultimately lead to his rise to power in Egypt.