THEOSISAmbrose of Milan
Joseph could have easily distributed all the wealth of Egypt and wasted the royal treasures; however, he chose not to appear extravagant at the expense of others. Instead of giving out free bread, he opted to sell it, understanding that if he provided it to only a few, the majority would be left wanting. He favored generosity that benefited everyone, opening the granaries so that all could purchase grain and maintain the cultivation of their lands, for those who depend on others often neglect their own responsibilities. As a first step, he gathered all the money and then everything else, ultimately transferring the rights to the lands to the king, as noted in Genesis 47:14-26.
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His goal was not to strip everyone of their property but to fortify the community, and he implemented a tax to ensure that they could hold onto their assets in peace. Those from whom he acquired the land recognized the wisdom in his decisions, viewing it not as a surrender of their rights but as a means of preserving their lives. They expressed their gratitude, saying, "You have saved our lives, we have found favor in the sight of our lord" (Gen. 47:25). They lost nothing of their possessions by reclaiming their rights, nor did they sacrifice anything valuable; instead, they gained confidence for the future. He was a remarkable figure, not pursuing fleeting fame through reckless generosity, but instead establishing the enduring wisdom of self-reliance by requiring the people to contribute through taxes, ensuring that in times of famine, they would not rely on external assistance. He understood the importance of sharing a portion of one’s produce rather than risking total loss. Joseph mandated that one-fifth of the harvest be given, demonstrating both foresight and compassion in tax policy. Consequently, Egypt never suffered from such a famine again.