What does Genesis 41:1 mean?
The prior chapter ended with Joseph still imprisoned (Genesis 39:20) despite successfully interpreting dreams for his fellow prisoners (Genesis 40:20–22). The surviving servant, the Pharaoh's cupbearer, failed to mention Joseph's unfair treatment (Genesis 40:14–15) and his talents (Genesis 40:23). As a result, Joseph languishes in prison for another two years. God's presence with His people does not always mean we will escape hard times (John 16:33). It does mean He will sustain us through those times (Genesis 39:21)."Pharaoh" is the title given to the ruler of Egypt. Two years after restoring his cupbearer and executing his baker, Pharaoh has a complicated prophetic dream in which he found himself standing by the Nile. He will see seven healthy cows consumed by seven starving cows (Genesis 41:2–4). This will be followed by a second dream, repeating the same events, this time with ears of grain (Genesis 41:5–7).