Genesis 41:54Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The occurrences demonstrated to all the wisdom of this individual, compelling obedience from everyone. He had prepared in advance to ensure that when a severe famine arrived, the Egyptians would lack for nothing. "In all the land of Egypt, it is said, there was bread."

Joseph started to collect grain, amassing it each year throughout the cities of Egypt. Once the seasons of abundance had ended and the times of scarcity set in, he demonstrated his compassion for the orphans, widows, and all those in need within Egypt, ensuring that no one was left uncared for.

Bread was abundant throughout the land of Egypt. However, soon the entire region fell into a severe famine. Initially, this scarcity was experienced in the neighboring countries, while the Egyptians continued to be satisfied with the surplus from the seven prosperous years that remained in their homes. Eventually, though, bread became scarce for the Egyptians across their entire territory.