Genesis 47:21 Meaning and Explanation
“And as for the people, he removed them to cities from one end of the borders of Egypt even to the other end thereof.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Joseph relocates the people from their farms to cities throughout Egypt.
The Context of Genesis 47:21
Joseph relocates the displaced population to cities across Egypt.
What Does Genesis 47:21 Mean?
With the land now belonging to Pharaoh, Joseph relocates the population from their scattered farmsteads to cities. This resettlement moves people away from their ancestral fields and consolidates them in urban centers. The relocation is comprehensive, spanning 'from one end of the borders of Egypt even to the other end,' showing the scope of Joseph's administrative reorganization.
The cities may have been chosen for efficiency, allowing centralized distribution of grain and closer monitoring of the population. While the relocation serves practical administrative purposes, it also represents a loss of continuity with ancestral lands. The move reflects Joseph's reshaping of Egyptian society in response to the famine's demands.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 47:21
What does Genesis 47:21 mean?
Joseph relocates the people from their farms to cities throughout Egypt.
What is the context of Genesis 47:21?
Joseph relocates the displaced population to cities across Egypt.