Genesis 41:31 Meaning and Explanation
“And the plenty shall not be known in the land by reason of that famine following; for it shall be very grievous.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The famine will be so severe and continuous that no one will remember or recognize the previous years of abundance.
The Context of Genesis 41:31
Joseph stresses the unprecedented severity of the coming famine.
What Does Genesis 41:31 Mean?
Joseph emphasizes the 'very grievous' nature of the famine. The word 'grievous' indicates severity that goes beyond mere want—it will be a crisis that devastates the population and creates intense suffering. The famine is not managed scarcity but catastrophic deprivation.
The phrase 'not be known in the land' suggests that abundance will become almost mythical or unreal. People living through seven years of want will struggle to believe their own memories of plenty. This reinforces why Joseph's next counsel about preparation will be so critical—without storage and planning, Egypt will face not just famine but total collapse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 41:31
What does Genesis 41:31 mean?
The famine will be so severe and continuous that no one will remember or recognize the previous years of abundance.
What is the context of Genesis 41:31?
Joseph stresses the unprecedented severity of the coming famine.