Genesis 40

The Cupbearer and the Baker in Prison (v.1–4):

After Joseph is imprisoned, Pharaoh becomes angry with his chief cupbearer and chief baker and has them thrown into the same prison where Joseph is.

Joseph is assigned to serve these officials, who have been put in custody.

The Dreams of the Cupbearer and the Baker (v.5–8):

Both the cupbearer and baker have troubling dreams on the same night, but they cannot interpret them.

Joseph notices their distress and asks them why they are sad. They explain their dreams and express their confusion about their meaning.

Joseph responds that interpretations belong to God and asks them to share their dreams.

Joseph’s Interpretation of the Cupbearer’s Dream (v.9–15):

The cupbearer recounts his dream: He sees a vine with three branches, which buds, blossoms, and produces grapes, and he squeezes the grapes into Pharaoh's cup.

Joseph interprets the dream, explaining that in three days, the cupbearer will be restored to his position and will once again serve Pharaoh, putting the cup in Pharaoh’s hand.

Joseph asks the cupbearer to remember him and speak to Pharaoh on his behalf, as he was unjustly imprisoned.

Joseph’s Interpretation of the Baker’s Dream (v.16–19):

The baker shares his dream: He has three baskets on his head, with baked goods in the top basket, but birds are eating from them.

Joseph interprets the dream, explaining that in three days, the baker will be executed, and his body will be hung on a tree, where birds will eat his flesh.

The Fulfillment of the Dreams (v.20–23):

Three days later, Pharaoh celebrates his birthday and makes a feast for his servants. He orders the release of both the cupbearer and baker.

The cupbearer is restored to his position, while the baker is executed, just as Joseph had interpreted.

However, the cupbearer forgets Joseph and does not mention him to Pharaoh, leaving Joseph still in prison.

Key Themes:
Joseph’s Gift of Dream Interpretation: Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams is a reflection of his relationship with God and the wisdom God gives him. His reliance on God is emphasized when he states that interpretations belong to God (v.8).

God’s Sovereignty and Timing: The fulfillment of the cupbearer’s and baker’s dreams shows that God is in control of all circumstances, including the timing of Joseph’s eventual release and promotion.

Injustice and Patience: Joseph’s continued imprisonment, even after helping the cupbearer, shows that sometimes justice is delayed and God’s plans unfold in His timing. Joseph's patience and trust in God, despite his situation, are key themes.

Faithfulness in the Small Things: Joseph continues to show faithfulness even in the midst of hardship. His role as a servant in prison does not stop him from being diligent, and his actions later lead to the opportunity of his promotion.