What does Genesis 41:37 mean?
From a rational perspective, Joseph took an enormous risk telling Pharaoh what to do (Genesis 41:33–36) about the coming years of abundance and devastating famine (Genesis 41:28–32). In the ancient world, kings and rulers rarely appreciated advice unless it was specifically requested. Joseph is not an advisor; he is a slave just released from years in prison (Genesis 41:14–16), though his charges were false (Genesis 40:14–15).Still, the plan he has offered flowed naturally from the revealed meaning of the Pharaoh's dreams. Both were given through the empowerment of God's Spirit who is with Joseph, something Pharaoh himself acknowledges in the following verses (Genesis 41:38–39).
Instead of reprimanding Joseph for breaking social protocol, Pharaoh and everyone else in the room is impressed with his proposal and the spirit in which it was delivered. Joseph's courage in speaking on behalf of his God has paid off.
