What does Genesis 47:6 mean?

Joseph's large family has arrived in Egypt from Canaan at the Pharaoh's invitation (Genesis 45:16–20). Their formal interview with him has concluded. He has heard their request to settle in Egypt since the famine has made it impossible for them to support their large herds and flocks in Canaan. Specifically, they have requested to settle in the fertile region of Goshen (Genesis 47:1–5).

To respond, Pharaoh addresses Joseph, not his brothers. He makes it clear that he is giving Joseph the authority to grant their request. This wisely maintains the understanding that the family is there under Joseph's care, not necessarily that of Pharaoh. He commands Joseph to place his brothers on the best of the land of Egypt, specifically mentioning the land of Goshen for the first time.

This is the exact outcome Joseph has been hoping for, and it would have been enough. Pharaoh goes further, however. He tells Joseph to put the most able of his brothers in charge of his own livestock, an offer with huge implications. This would make some of Joseph's brothers official officers of the court. This would afford them benefits not usually given to immigrants.

Scholars report that this position of a stockman for the Pharaoh is regularly mentioned in Egyptian history. As one might expect, it was mostly given to foreigners. This fits with Joseph's statement in Genesis 46:34 that shepherds were detestable to the Egyptians. It's not a job most Egyptians would want.