Genesis 40:21Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

When the designated time arrived, the statements made by Joseph were proved true in action: exactly as he had predicted, one was reinstated to his previous prosperity, while the other met his demise.

While imprisoned, Joseph explained the meanings of two dreams belonging to Pharaoh's officials. One man was executed on the very day Joseph had predicted, while the other was reinstated, receiving back the cup he had previously served to Pharaoh. Once the chief cupbearer and the chief baker shared their dreams with Joseph, he briefly clarified the outcomes foretold to them, which unfolded just as he had said: the chief cupbearer was restored to his position, but the chief baker was condemned to death by the king. To ensure the fulfillment of these interpretations, Pharaoh hosted a banquet for his nobles three days later, recalling the chief cupbearer and reinstating him. Tragically, the chief cupbearer neglected to remember Joseph.