Genesis 41:23 Meaning and Explanation
“And, behold, seven ears, withered, thin, and blasted with the east wind, sprung up after them:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Seven withered, thin ears of grain appear next, damaged by the east wind.
The Context of Genesis 41:23
The second dream's reversal shows similar destruction, now by wind-blasted grain.
What Does Genesis 41:23 Mean?
The withered ears continue the pattern of sharp contrast. Blasted by the east wind, they are damaged beyond recovery. In Egypt's climate, the sirocco (east wind) brought drying heat that destroyed crops. Pharaoh's dream uses realistic agricultural threats that would be familiar to anyone aware of Egypt's vulnerability.
The destruction by wind adds a natural dimension to the famine imagery. It is not merely human failure or miscalculation but environmental catastrophe. The wind—often understood as a symbol of divine action—drives the destruction, suggesting forces beyond human control.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 41:23
What does Genesis 41:23 mean?
Seven withered, thin ears of grain appear next, damaged by the east wind.
What is the context of Genesis 41:23?
The second dream's reversal shows similar destruction, now by wind-blasted grain.