Biblical Verses Biblical Verses & Resources

Book of Genesis - Chapter 47 - Verse 22

47:22
Only the land of the priests bought he not; for the priests had a portion assigned them of Pharaoh, and did eat their portion which Pharaoh gave them: wherefore they sold not their lands.

Meaning

Within this verse, it is revealed that the priests of Egypt were exempt from having their land bought by Joseph on behalf of Pharaoh. The priests were granted special provision directly from Pharaoh, which included a portion of food as their sustenance. Due to this arrangement, the priests did not have the need to sell off their lands like the rest of the Egyptian population. This exemption highlights the distinct status and privileges that were granted to the religious class in Egyptian society. By not purchasing the priests' lands, Joseph respected the established system that provided for their needs through the pharaoh's allocation. This verse sheds light on the social structure of ancient Egypt and the special treatment given to the religious leaders of the time.

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