Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams, foretelling seven years of abundance and seven of famine, which leads to his rise as Egypt’s second-in-command.
Genesis 41 Part 1 opens two years after Joseph’s prison service, when Pharaoh dreams of seven fat cows devoured by seven lean cows and of seven healthy ears of grain swallowed by seven thin ears. None of Egypt’s magicians can interpret these visions, but Pharaoh’s cupbearer recalls Joseph’s gift and recommends him. Joseph credits God for revelation, explains that the pair of dreams signify the same future—seven years of plenty followed by seven years of severe famine—and advises storing surplus grain. Pharaoh is so impressed that he removes his signet ring, dresses Joseph in fine linen, and appoints him over all Egypt as his second-in-command.