Pearls of the Word

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To bind his princes at his pleasure

by Jean-Louis Coraboeuf

"To bind his princes at his pleasure [nephesh], and teach his elders wisdom" (Psalm 105:20).

Joseph stayed in prison until the word of God had purified and transformed him. Then Pharaoh liberated him and established him lord of his house and ruler over all his goods.

Joseph had to have a pure soul so that the princes of Egypt could cling to his soul [nephesh] as Jonathan's soul was knit with that of David (1 Samuel 18:1). This was necessary so that Joseph could then teach the wisdom of God to the elders – those who have the authority – of Egypt. Then God's plan could be fully accomplished in the life of Joseph.