What does Genesis 41:31 mean?
Joseph has just interpreted Pharaoh's dreams (Genesis 41:1–7) as predictions from God: seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine (Genesis 41:25–30).As part of his explanation, Joseph indicates the famine will be severe. The former years of abundant crops and herds will be critically reversed. The situation will be so bad that any prosperity seen during the good years will be lost and forgotten. It seems Joseph wants Pharaoh to understand the urgency of what God has shown him about the coming famine (Genesis 41:32).
As part of that, Joseph also seems led to suggest a course of action (Genesis 41:33–36). This is a brave step for Joseph, as he was not called on to give Pharaoh advice (Genesis 41:9–16). His counsel is to prepare for the famine by stockpiling grain during the years of plenty.