How was Providence symbolized in the story of Joseph?

Answer 1

1) Joseph's brothers decided to sell him rather than harm him (Genesis ch.37).
2) Joseph was purchased not by a commoner, but by a high-ranking Egyptian official and rose to prominence in his house (Genesis ch.39).
3) When Joseph was falsely accused of a serious crime, the official didn't kill him, as normally would have been done (ibid).
4) Even when put in prison, Joseph gained a position of authority within the prison (Genesis ch.40).
5) Joseph's accurate interpretation of dreams (ibid.) eventually helped bring about his release and his favor in Pharaoh's eyes (Genesis ch.41).
6) In what may seem a rash decision, Pharaoh appointed Joseph to be viceroy of Egypt, without taking time for consultation (ibid).
7) Joseph's knowledge of dreams brought about the survival of Egypt, and of his own family, in the famine (Genesis ch.41-42).
8) Joseph's brothers later acknowledged his righteousness (Genesis ch.45).

Answer 2

Joseph had prophetic dreams

Joseph was saved from death (Genesis ch.37) He was sold into slavery, but rose to high office in his master's (Potiphar's) household (Gen.ch.39)

He was later thrown in prison but even there was appointed the highest functionary within the prison (ch.40)

He succeeded in interpreting the dreams of two of Pharaoh's ministers (ch.41)

He later interpreted Pharaoh's dreams and was appointed viceroy of Egypt

He supported his family, and all of Egypt, during the famine (ch.42 and 46).

Answer 3

1) Joseph's brothers decided to sell him rather than harm him (Genesis ch.37).
2) Joseph was purchased not by a commoner, but by a high-ranking Egyptian official and rose to prominence in his house (Genesis ch.39).
3) When Joseph was falsely accused of a serious crime, the official didn't kill him, as normally would have been done (ibid).
4) Even when put in prison, Joseph gained a position of authority within the prison (Genesis ch.40).
5) Joseph's accurate interpretation of dreams (ibid.) eventually helped bring about his release and his favor in Pharaoh's eyes (Genesis ch.41).
6) In what may seem a rash decision, Pharaoh appointed Joseph to be viceroy of Egypt, without taking time for consultation (ibid).
7) Joseph's knowledge of dreams brought about the survival of Egypt, and of his own family, in the famine (Genesis ch.41-42).
8) Joseph's brothers later acknowledged his righteousness (Genesis ch.45).See also the Related Links.

Link: Joseph's importance

Link: Jacob and Joseph

Link: Jewish history timeline