What does Genesis 41:40 mean?

In a remarkable turn of events, Pharaoh appoints Joseph to be his second in command over all of Egypt. Pharaoh, demonstrating humility and concern for his kingdom, has recognized that God's Spirit is with Joseph, making him the wisest and most discerning man in all of Egypt (Genesis 41:38–39). He is convinced that Joseph's revelation of God's plan is authentic (Genesis 41:28–32), and he wants Joseph to manage the preparations for the coming seven years of devastating famine (Genesis 41:33–36).

Joseph, for his part, might have been overwhelmed with these events. He woke up that morning in a seemingly endless string of days in prison for a crime he did not commit (Genesis 40:14–15). He will end this encounter as the second most powerful man in all of Egypt, perhaps the most potent nation in the world at that time.

Pharaoh specifically says that Joseph will be over his own house, the palace of Egypt. Every person in the land will respond to Joseph's orders by "kowtowing" or "kissing the ground." In other words, all will be made to obey him. Pharaoh, of course, will continue to hold the throne and the ultimate authority, but he will entrust to Joseph command over everything else. This follows a pattern in Joseph's life, where others entrust him with near-absolute responsibility (Genesis 39:4–5, 21–23).