December 17, 2025 • 29 mins
# 53 - Joseph: The Prophet - In this episode of The Chosen People, Joseph’s journey from prison to Pharaoh’s court reveals the power of faith, wisdom, and God’s providence. Discover how a Hebrew slave interprets dreams to save nations, embodying resilience and divine purpose.
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Episode 53 of The Chosen People is inspired by the Book of Genesis.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by James 1:5, “But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.”
Listen to some of the greatest Bible stories ever told and make prayer a priority in your life by downloading the Pray.com app.
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the Chosen People. Two years passed, Joseph, now
twenty seven years old, had solidified himself as the benevolent
leader over the other prisoners. His willingness to serve them
and listen to their needs engendered loyalty from them. Joseph
placed his hand on the cupbearer's shoulder and looked intently
(00:21):
into his eyes.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
My friend, these things will come to pass. God has
declared it. When you're free. I ask, will you please
remember me, remember what you've seen here and mention it
to Pharaoh. Recall my kindness towards you, and tell him
of my gift. What have you done to be here?
(00:44):
Are you innocent? Are you who this is supposed to
be here?
Speaker 1 (00:48):
Joseph leaned back and looked up at the sun rays
peeking through the ceiling.
Speaker 2 (00:53):
I am a Hebrew sold into slavery by my brothers.
Yet even as a slave I thrive. I'm not here
for my own sins, but because of the sins of others.
Although I am in this world, I do not belong
to this world.
Speaker 3 (01:08):
If what you say is to the true Hebrew, I
will remember you when I am restored to Pharaoh.
Speaker 1 (01:14):
However, Joseph remained in the prison for years. He waited
in his stone tomb to rise up. He suffered a
great deal, but his present sufferings were not comparable to
the future glory awaiting him. Joseph gazed in amazement as
(01:37):
eleven stars flashed and darted around him, their brilliant lights
enveloping him like a flock of celestial birds. Then, as
though the stars were men, they bowed before him in reverence.
The brightness of the sun surged towards him like a
blazing comet, with the Sun and moon whirling around him
(01:59):
with a similar grain. The light was overwhelming. Joseph watched
in awe as the heavens themselves seemed to bow to him. Then,
in an instant, the light vanished and he began to fall,
his body crashing against the jagged edges of a mountain.
As he plummeted into its depths, he rode with a start,
(02:21):
sweat trickling down his neck and back. The familiar, damp,
dark cells surrounded him. He rubbed his eyes and stood,
walking to the small pool of water to splash his face.
Another night, another dream. Lately, they had haunted him more frequently.
Leaning over the pool, he stared at his dim reflection.
(02:45):
Moonlight streamed in from above like silver threads. He breathed
deeply and sat back down. The cell was quiet and still.
The other prisoners were fast asleep, while Joseph remained awake.
It had been two years since he interpreted the dreams
of the Baker and the cupbearer. He had hoped his
gifts would reach Pharaoh's ears by now, but here he
(03:07):
was still in the dark. Joseph looked up at the moon,
finding solace in its light. It was a small window
into the world outside, a sliver of freedom peeking into
his prison. Meanwhile, above the depths of Joseph's prison, in
the grand towers of the Palace, Pharaoh tossed and turned
(03:30):
in his bed. Beads of sweat dripped down his brows.
His delirious cries filled the room. His dream was dark, feverish,
and swift. Pharaoh woke with a roar, leaping from his bed,
his chest heaving, eyes wide with terror. His attendant burst
through the door.
Speaker 4 (03:48):
My Lord, are you o kate I heard, screams.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
Pharaoh leaned over the bed, rubbing his forehead.
Speaker 4 (03:56):
Yes and no, it is none of your concern. Return
to your post.
Speaker 1 (04:05):
The guard nodded and shut the door gently behind him.
Pharaoh stood up and went out on to his balcony.
The gentle breeze lightly caressed his cheek. He breathed in deeply.
The coolness of the night was a sweet relief to
his sweaty and warm face. Images of his dreams flashed
in his mind's eye. Cup bearer, Pharaoh's cupbearer entered the
(04:31):
room silently and bowed before him wine. The cup bearer
brought Pharaoh his cup, filling it with a specialty wine
from Pottiva's vineyards. Pharaoh drank quietly, leaning over the balcony,
overlooking his vast kingdom. Once his senses were properly dulled,
he dismissed the cupbearer and returned to bed. The vivid
(04:54):
images of his dreams faded, replaced by a peaceful darkness.
Pharaoh arose the next morning, the weight of his dreams
still heavy on his mind. He slumped on his throne,
unable to focus or find solace. No revelry, substance, or
companionship could quiet his tormented thoughts. He sat in misery,
(05:18):
struggling to make sense of his dreams and why they
plagued him. So Nivererty, a short man dressed in priestly robes,
emerged from the shadows and bowed before Pharaoh. His sharp
features contrasted with the round markings on his shaved head,
symbols of the hearty may magicians and priests killed in
the dark, hearts of sorcery and divination. His narrow, serpentine
(05:43):
eyes fixed upon the throne.
Speaker 2 (05:45):
Ah, Hail to the chosen of the gods. The image
of Rah himself. The morning and evening star tell me
of dreams. Ah. So the sun and moon seek to
understand dreams.
Speaker 5 (06:03):
Eh.
Speaker 2 (06:04):
When a large journeys through the night sky, reveil of
sleep descends upon mortal minds, and the gods find a
gateway to our souls. In these moments, their voice blend
with our slumber, crafting dreams rich with heidden secrets and guidance.
(06:31):
In the realm of dream, nothing is as it seems,
yet everything carries the weight of divine intention. The gods
speak through symbols, animals, elements, celestial wanders, all imbued with
(06:52):
their essence.
Speaker 4 (06:54):
Ah, I require the wisdom of the gods, me with
a vision. I desire to see what gifts or warnings
they send.
Speaker 1 (07:05):
Pharaoh explained his dream in great detail to the priest.
He spoke of the undead cows and the blighted heads
of wheat. Neverty simply nodded his head, pondering the meaning
of his king's dreams. After Pharaoh had finished the short,
priest paused and pondered.
Speaker 2 (07:24):
Truly, the gods have blessed you with a glimpse into
the spirit realm, my lord. However, I fear you have
been granted access I have not. My Lord is far
more powerful than I, so it would stand to reason
(07:44):
you have visions too grand for me to comprehend.
Speaker 4 (07:50):
Ah, for all your words, you manage to say nothing.
Speaker 2 (07:54):
I shall gather more of the heart to may we
shall consult the suns and the ahs. The answer would
be somewhere or.
Speaker 1 (08:03):
Pharaoh nepherties summoned magicians and wise men from across the land,
bringing them to the palace. They listened to Pharaoh's dreams,
each offering interpretations, but Pharaoh's sensed they were merely inventing
narratives to appease him. Some cast sands into whetstone, others
consulted bones and blood. Despite their methods, the answers eluded them,
(08:26):
and they bickered amongst themselves, filling their palace halls with arguments.
Pharaoh gripped the sides of his throne, teeth clenched as
soothsayers insulted astronomers. Sorcerers shouted at alchemists, and priests turned
up their noses at the lot.
Speaker 4 (08:41):
Your fools, fools, Oh.
Speaker 1 (08:48):
The halls fell deftly silent. Pharaoh snarled at them, eyes
darting like fiery arrows.
Speaker 2 (08:55):
Lord Pharaoh, we seek on little silence.
Speaker 4 (09:00):
For days you have stood here, squawking amongst yourselves like birds.
You've given me no answers, yet here you remain in
my courts. I tire of your constant squabbles over whose
lie is better. Get out of my sight before I
(09:20):
have your tongues thrown in the nile.
Speaker 1 (09:23):
The court emptied instantly, priests and sorcerers scrambling to gather
their tools before fleeing the palace. Pharaoh watched them go,
His anger giving way to weariness, he held out.
Speaker 4 (09:36):
His cup wine.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
The cup bearer came at once and poured into Pharaoh's cup.
With eyes glazed over and weary, Pharaoh's sighed a moment
of vulnerable reflection, the.
Speaker 4 (09:51):
Dreams torturing me.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
He means something, I know it. It was at that
moment the cup bearers are eyes widened. His mind was
brought back to a time in prison when he too
was tormented by a dream, and the Hebrew prisoner showed
him kindness. The cup bearer gasped and nearly dropped the picture.
Speaker 2 (10:12):
Oh my, I.
Speaker 3 (10:14):
Have fulfailed him.
Speaker 2 (10:16):
I've committed a gus events.
Speaker 4 (10:19):
Oh what have you done to me? Do not tell
me something is wrong with my wine?
Speaker 3 (10:25):
Oh no, Lord Pharaoh, not you. I have remembered the
promise I've made years ago.
Speaker 2 (10:32):
A man helped me with my dreams.
Speaker 4 (10:36):
Do not delay any longer, cup bearer, who do you
speak of?
Speaker 3 (10:40):
When I was in prisoned, there was a man, a
young man, and a Hebrew of all people, a Hebrew, truly, yes,
a Hebrew of all people, My lord quite unexpected that
he was a servant under the Potiphar, your captain, But
(11:00):
as a prisoner he was our overseer. When I was
the dwelling there, the baker and I both had dreams
that tormented us. I was it was a simple dream. However,
he had tormented my mind to near insanity. The baker
(11:22):
also had a dream that remained in his mind. We
were both despondent and with hout answers, much.
Speaker 4 (11:30):
Like you are, my Lord, And this a Hebrew was
able to console you.
Speaker 3 (11:37):
More than that, good Pharaoh. He didn't just console us.
He interpreted how dreams. He explained that meaning the purpose,
and my Lord, everything he said came to pass. Everything
(11:57):
I was released, just as he foretold. He was impaled
on pike, just as the Hebrew predicted.
Speaker 1 (12:13):
His gentle face moistened with sorrow. He felt pangs of regret.
Joseph had done him a great kindness, and he had
forgotten about him.
Speaker 3 (12:24):
He has been there for five years. He claims to
be innocent, and I promised him I would tell you
about his dream gift, but I'd forgotten until now.
Speaker 1 (12:38):
The throne room was silent for a long moment. Pharaoh
paused and composed himself captain. His shouts shook the pillars,
traveling to every corner of the palace. Emerging from the
far corner of Pharaoh's courts was Potiphar. He stood at attention.
Speaker 4 (12:57):
Five years ago you imprisoned a Hebrew slave. What was
he like?
Speaker 1 (13:03):
Potiphar? Wore the same expression of regret as the cup bearer.
He paused, collecting his thoughts and considering how honest he
should be. Fatigued from feigned answers, Pharaoh shouted.
Speaker 4 (13:16):
The truth, Potiphar, do not pad your words with pleasantraes.
Speaker 5 (13:22):
Yes, Joseph was the greatest servant and friend I have
ever had, my Lord, I imprisoned him for a crime
he did not commit, and my pride and embarrassment kept
me from releasing him. When I came to my senses.
Speaker 4 (13:42):
Hi praise for a Hebrew and a slave at that.
Speaker 5 (13:47):
The Hebrews have one god, a god who seems to
follow Joseph. Whatever he goes. Everything I put into his
hand succeeded.
Speaker 4 (13:57):
Bring him to me, we shall see about this Hebrews gifts.
Speaker 1 (14:03):
Potipha saluted and left quickly for the Palace dungeons. He
made his way down the narrow stairway leading down into
the prison cells. Guards stood at attention every dozen yards,
saluting Potiphar as he passed. Potiphar finally approached the large
wooden door into the prison cell. He stood behind it
(14:25):
for a moment, collecting his thoughts. Not long after he
had sent Joseph to prison. He realized the sins of
his wife. However, out of embarrassment and anger, he allowed
Joseph to rot in prison. He was ashamed Joseph had
brought prosperity and order to his household, and he abandoned him.
Potipha sighed and opened the door. A few guards stood
(14:48):
behind him. He peered in to see prisoners walking and
lounging around. Their bodies were marred from years of sleepless
nights and cold winters. However, there was a joy amid
the prison the Potiphar had never seen before. They were
talking to one another, laughing and working on small projects
to pass the time. When Potiphar entered the entire room,
(15:11):
when silent, they retreated back against the wall and slumped over.
Potipha scanned the cell, looking for Joseph. However, he could
not see the young man he had once banished.
Speaker 5 (15:23):
I am looking for Joseph.
Speaker 1 (15:25):
The prisoners looked at each other, then towards a figure
in one of the rooms carved from stone. A man
knelt beside a sick prisoner, dabbing his head with a
wet cloth. Potiphar walked over to the hunched figure.
Speaker 4 (15:40):
Joseph.
Speaker 1 (15:42):
The man looked back and stood to his feet. He
was tall, dark and lean. His hair was long and
pulled back behind his head, except for a few loose
curls that hung over his face. His beard was long, scraggly,
and braided at the tips. Potifar it closely into his eyes.
There was no denying that those eyes belonged to Joseph.
(16:05):
Despite the years and the hardship, a serenity emanated from Joseph.
He had spent years contemplating what he would say to Potiphar.
He had felt betrayed and abandoned, But now looking at
his old friend and master, the peace of God filled him.
Joseph stepped forward, smiled and bowed slightly.
Speaker 2 (16:28):
My word a mere serviu.
Speaker 1 (16:30):
Potiphar's throat tightened with grief. He held his head low,
looking at Joseph with a mix of dismay and joy.
Without bringing drowned herds back to the surface, Potiphar cleared
his throat and gave a slight tilt of his head,
almost resembling a contrite bow. It was as much as
(16:51):
Potiphar could offer the slave turned prisoner.
Speaker 5 (16:54):
Aye, hear you have done well here. Your God truly
follows you. Were.
Speaker 2 (17:01):
God has granted me favor here. There is no pit
too low for his presence.
Speaker 5 (17:06):
Philo, summon you, and iye would be an honor to
escort you there.
Speaker 4 (17:12):
Young Joseph.
Speaker 1 (17:15):
Potiphar led Joseph out of the prison. He emerged from
the darkness and walked into the light of day. The
sun shone down brightly. Its warmth was invigorating. Joseph was
taken to Potiphar's estate. There he was greeted by Ned
and the other servants he once managed. They embraced him
as a brother. Joseph had forgotten how much he missed
(17:38):
the vineyards, courtyards, and stables. He breathed in the fresh
air and crumbled to the ground in tears. For five
years he was confined to the palace dungeons. The dark
and damp cell had stripped him of any hope he
would be free. He gripped the dirt beneath him and sobbed.
Speaker 2 (17:57):
Sake you, my God.
Speaker 1 (18:00):
Joseph was escorted to the bath house to be cleaned.
Flashes of that night with Potipha's wife came and went.
They shaved his face and gave him a fresh change
of clothes. Joseph felt like a new man. He had
emerged from the depths of darkness and was now walking
with a renewed sense of peace. God had raised him
(18:22):
up for a purpose. It was time to enter into
the courts of Pharaoh. The hallways were arrayed with beautiful
artwork of past conquests. Ivory pillars reached toward the ceiling.
They played with the torchlight to make shadows, playing off
Joseph's phlegmatic stare As Joseph walked down the halls, he
(18:46):
could see that every figure painted on the walls told
a singular story. They showcased the glory of Egypt and
the deity of Pharaoh. Joseph had been in Egypt long
enough to know that Pharaoh was considered equal to the gods. He,
to them, was the image of the gods, the holy
conduit from which the divine will flowed. His pride knew
(19:08):
no bounds, nor did his power that made him dangerous.
Joseph was escorted into the main throne room of Pharaoh. Noblemen, priests,
and guards stood on the perimeter, speaking amongst themselves. At
the center of the room, sitting on a throne adorned
with golden eagle's wings, sat the almighty Pharaoh. He was
(19:31):
tall and younger than Joseph had imagined. Weaved into the garment.
On his waist was leopard skin. Around his neck was
a large golden eagle stretching across his bare chest. On
his head was the Nemes head dress, symbolizing absolute power.
He held his scepter firmly in his right hand. He
(19:54):
was an intimidating sight to behold. Joseph had never seen
such power exude from one. Then again, according to the Egyptians,
he was no man at all. Joseph came before the
throne and bowed his knee. Pharaoh stood and stepped down
to him. He paced around him, gripping his scepter tightly.
Speaker 4 (20:16):
So you are the Hebrew called Joseph.
Speaker 2 (20:21):
At your service and will good Pharaoh.
Speaker 4 (20:25):
I hear lofty things about you, Hebrew. Is it true
that you are able to interpret it dreams. Joseph was
silent for a moment, pondering the correct answer to Pharaoh's question. Agitated,
Pharaoh slammed the tip of his scepter into the ground.
I require an answer.
Speaker 1 (20:46):
Joseph flinched at the noise. Pharaoh's voice echoed against the
palace walls. Everyone in the throne room stood in silence,
awaiting Joseph's reply. Without looking up, Joseph shook his head
and replied.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
No, my King, I cannot interpret any dreams.
Speaker 1 (21:04):
The entire court room gasped at his answer. Pharaoh's eyes
darted back at his cupbearer, and then at Potiphar.
Speaker 4 (21:12):
Have I been lied too? All your heads will be
thrown on some pikes for this.
Speaker 2 (21:17):
No, my good Pharaoh, Please do not harm.
Speaker 1 (21:19):
Them, Joseph interrupted. Joseph had learned much about himself since
he was first betrayed by his brothers. He learned that
it was his pride that muddied his giftings. He was
unable to enjoy the blessings and gifts God gave him
because he was filled with arrogance. He would not make
the same mistake again. He would not conflate his talent
(21:41):
with God's favor any longer. He knew that the true
palace did not lie within the hallways arrayed with gold,
but in a humble spirit before God. He held his
hands out in surrender to Pharaoh and looked up at him.
His eyes were filled with passion.
Speaker 2 (21:58):
I can do nothing, my king, any favor, gifting or
talent you've heard is not my own. It is the
God that I serve, who does these things. You asked
me if I was able to interpret dreams. I am
not abel, But my God is. He is powerful. All
wisdom and knowledge are his. It is he who will
(22:21):
tell you the answers you seek.
Speaker 4 (22:25):
Er very well, Hebrew, I shall tell you my two dreams. However,
if the answer you give does not quench my thirst
for the truth, it shall be your head, and no
god will be able to save you.
Speaker 2 (22:42):
I understand. Go on, my Lord.
Speaker 4 (22:45):
I dreamed. I was standing by the nile. The water
was dark and raging. I stood at the shore with
my feet submerged. There, I stared into the black rapids,
mesmerized by the sound rushing water. Then lights emerged from
the darkness. Out of the river. Seven cows walk on
(23:07):
to the shore. They were glowing, spotless, fat and healthy.
I watched as they methodically made their way toward the reefs.
The wind blew softly as the cows grazed in the
dawn grass. The sky was bright and the sun shone
its radiance down on the animals below.
Speaker 2 (23:29):
Sounds pleasant so far, indeed.
Speaker 4 (23:32):
Until the others came. I turned from the healthy cows
and looked up. The sun turned into a deep crimson,
and the skies were enveloped by clouds of dust and ash.
I saw the waters grow more violent. The waves thrashed
against me, sending me on to my back. And then,
(23:53):
like corpses clawing their way out of their graves, I
saw seven emaciated cows in merged from the nile. The
flesh was rotting off the bone, and every piece of
vegetation died under their feet. The seven deathly cows made
their way to the reeds. Then, to my horror, they
(24:13):
began to devour the seven healthy cows.
Speaker 2 (24:17):
I watched the carnage.
Speaker 4 (24:19):
They tore the flesh off their bones and ravaged them.
It was a monstrosity to behold. What do you say, Hebrew?
Speaker 2 (24:28):
You said you had two dreams, Mighty Pharaoh was the
second like the first?
Speaker 4 (24:33):
Yes and no. From the emptiness of my mind, A
small sprout appeared from the ground. I watched intently as
more sprouts formed around me. Seven sprouts sprang forth with
new life, producing seven heads of grain, healthy and ripe
(24:54):
for the plucking. I watched as they grew larger and
larger around me, reaching up to the heavens. I looked
up in awe as the blue skies seemed to kiss
the tips of the grain. They were magnificent and brought
tears to my eyes. However, my eye was short lived.
A blighted wind howled like a wolf in the distance.
(25:18):
It blew forth with might and power, scorching the earth
beneath me. I looked down, and the dry ground began
to crack under my feet. And from the cracks in
the dirt, seven other heads of grain sprouted. Only these
were thin, scorched and dark. Their dragged vines grew out
of the ground and wrapped around the healthy heads of grain.
(25:42):
They rapped lightly and squeezed the life out of the grain. Then,
as if beasts themselves, the blighted grain devoured the healthy. Slowly,
everything began to crumble and dissipate. Above me, the towers
of grain fell. Closed my eyes and do for cover,
(26:03):
and immediately woke.
Speaker 5 (26:04):
Again in my bed.
Speaker 1 (26:06):
Pharaoh finished describing his dreams. The entire court of priests,
nobles and gods held their breath in anticipation. They wanted
to hear Joseph's reply. He sat in silence for a moment,
Joseph stayed completely still. Joseph closed his eyes and did
his best to drown out the distraction of Pharaoh. He
(26:28):
prayed in his mind for answers. Joseph smirked. He could
feel a tug on his soul like a gentle breeze.
God guided Joseph into truth and revealed to him the
meaning of these dreams. Joseph opened his eyes and looked
directly into Pharaoh's.
Speaker 2 (26:46):
The dreams are the same.
Speaker 4 (26:48):
Go on.
Speaker 2 (26:50):
God has revealed to you what he is about to do.
The seven healthy cows in seven healthy ears of grain
are images of prosperity to come. Seven years there will
be plenty in the land. Egypt will experience a time
of flourishing like never before. The land will give birth
to new life, and your people will be fed. However,
(27:14):
this prosperity will come to an end. The seven sickly
cows and the seven scorched heads of grain, they represent
seven years of devastation. After seven years of plenty, seven
years of famine will strike the land like a wildfire.
This is the warning God has given to you. With
this knowledge comes a great deal of responsibility. It will
(27:39):
come to pass and if Egypt is not ready, the
entire world will perish.
Speaker 1 (27:45):
Pharaoh sat back on his throne with dismay. He was speechless.
Speaker 4 (27:51):
What must I do?
Speaker 1 (27:53):
Joseph looked back at Potiphar, not sure whether it would
be wise to give Pharaoh advice, for gestured for him
to answer.
Speaker 2 (28:02):
God has been gracious to you, Pharaoh, However, every moment
is precious. You should appoint a governor wise and discerning
enough to care for your resources. Appoint commissioners under him
to oversee the land. Every year of the harvest, take
one fifth of the goods and store it away. Over
(28:23):
the next seven years. You can store the grain and
other goods safely. Then when the famine hits, you can
use what is stored up to feed your people. The
same commissioners you appoint can be in charge of distributing
the resources according to the need.
Speaker 1 (28:41):
Pharaoh was silent for a long while. Joseph watched his
brow rise and fall with intense contemplation. Joseph felt the
need to shift his feet. He was uncomfortable with the waiting.
Was Pharaoh going to listen to him? Or would Joseph's
rise out of the pit be even shorter than the last.
(29:11):
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Zach Shellabarger and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of
The Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced
by Jonathan Cotten, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold,
(29:33):
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Music by Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre
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(29:53):
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Previously on the Chosen People. Two years passed, Joseph, now
twenty seven years old, had solidified himself as the benevolent
leader over the other prisoners. His willingness to serve them
and listen to their needs engendered loyalty from them. Joseph
placed his hand on the cupbearer's shoulder and looked intently
(00:21):
into his eyes.
Speaker 2 (00:22):
My friend, these things will come to pass. God has
declared it. When you're free. I ask, will you please
remember me, remember what you've seen here and mention it
to Pharaoh. Recall my kindness towards you, and tell him
of my gift. What have you done to be here?
(00:44):
Are you innocent? Are you who this is supposed to
be here?
Speaker 1 (00:48):
Joseph leaned back and looked up at the sun rays
peeking through the ceiling.
Speaker 2 (00:53):
I am a Hebrew sold into slavery by my brothers.
Yet even as a slave I thrive. I'm not here
for my own sins, but because of the sins of others.
Although I am in this world, I do not belong
to this world.
Speaker 3 (01:08):
If what you say is to the true Hebrew, I
will remember you when I am restored to Pharaoh.
Speaker 1 (01:14):
However, Joseph remained in the prison for years. He waited
in his stone tomb to rise up. He suffered a
great deal, but his present sufferings were not comparable to
the future glory awaiting him. Joseph gazed in amazement as
(01:37):
eleven stars flashed and darted around him, their brilliant lights
enveloping him like a flock of celestial birds. Then, as
though the stars were men, they bowed before him in reverence.
The brightness of the sun surged towards him like a
blazing comet, with the Sun and moon whirling around him
(01:59):
with a similar grain. The light was overwhelming. Joseph watched
in awe as the heavens themselves seemed to bow to him. Then,
in an instant, the light vanished and he began to fall,
his body crashing against the jagged edges of a mountain.
As he plummeted into its depths, he rode with a start,
(02:21):
sweat trickling down his neck and back. The familiar, damp,
dark cells surrounded him. He rubbed his eyes and stood,
walking to the small pool of water to splash his face.
Another night, another dream. Lately, they had haunted him more frequently.
Leaning over the pool, he stared at his dim reflection.
(02:45):
Moonlight streamed in from above like silver threads. He breathed
deeply and sat back down. The cell was quiet and still.
The other prisoners were fast asleep, while Joseph remained awake.
It had been two years since he interpreted the dreams
of the Baker and the cupbearer. He had hoped his
gifts would reach Pharaoh's ears by now, but here he
(03:07):
was still in the dark. Joseph looked up at the moon,
finding solace in its light. It was a small window
into the world outside, a sliver of freedom peeking into
his prison. Meanwhile, above the depths of Joseph's prison, in
the grand towers of the Palace, Pharaoh tossed and turned
(03:30):
in his bed. Beads of sweat dripped down his brows.
His delirious cries filled the room. His dream was dark, feverish,
and swift. Pharaoh woke with a roar, leaping from his bed,
his chest heaving, eyes wide with terror. His attendant burst
through the door.
Speaker 4 (03:48):
My Lord, are you o kate I heard, screams.
Speaker 1 (03:51):
Pharaoh leaned over the bed, rubbing his forehead.
Speaker 4 (03:56):
Yes and no, it is none of your concern. Return
to your post.
Speaker 1 (04:05):
The guard nodded and shut the door gently behind him.
Pharaoh stood up and went out on to his balcony.
The gentle breeze lightly caressed his cheek. He breathed in deeply.
The coolness of the night was a sweet relief to
his sweaty and warm face. Images of his dreams flashed
in his mind's eye. Cup bearer, Pharaoh's cupbearer entered the
(04:31):
room silently and bowed before him wine. The cup bearer
brought Pharaoh his cup, filling it with a specialty wine
from Pottiva's vineyards. Pharaoh drank quietly, leaning over the balcony,
overlooking his vast kingdom. Once his senses were properly dulled,
he dismissed the cupbearer and returned to bed. The vivid
(04:54):
images of his dreams faded, replaced by a peaceful darkness.
Pharaoh arose the next morning, the weight of his dreams
still heavy on his mind. He slumped on his throne,
unable to focus or find solace. No revelry, substance, or
companionship could quiet his tormented thoughts. He sat in misery,
(05:18):
struggling to make sense of his dreams and why they
plagued him. So Nivererty, a short man dressed in priestly robes,
emerged from the shadows and bowed before Pharaoh. His sharp
features contrasted with the round markings on his shaved head,
symbols of the hearty may magicians and priests killed in
the dark, hearts of sorcery and divination. His narrow, serpentine
(05:43):
eyes fixed upon the throne.
Speaker 2 (05:45):
Ah, Hail to the chosen of the gods. The image
of Rah himself. The morning and evening star tell me
of dreams. Ah. So the sun and moon seek to
understand dreams.
Speaker 5 (06:03):
Eh.
Speaker 2 (06:04):
When a large journeys through the night sky, reveil of
sleep descends upon mortal minds, and the gods find a
gateway to our souls. In these moments, their voice blend
with our slumber, crafting dreams rich with heidden secrets and guidance.
(06:31):
In the realm of dream, nothing is as it seems,
yet everything carries the weight of divine intention. The gods
speak through symbols, animals, elements, celestial wanders, all imbued with
(06:52):
their essence.
Speaker 4 (06:54):
Ah, I require the wisdom of the gods, me with
a vision. I desire to see what gifts or warnings
they send.
Speaker 1 (07:05):
Pharaoh explained his dream in great detail to the priest.
He spoke of the undead cows and the blighted heads
of wheat. Neverty simply nodded his head, pondering the meaning
of his king's dreams. After Pharaoh had finished the short,
priest paused and pondered.
Speaker 2 (07:24):
Truly, the gods have blessed you with a glimpse into
the spirit realm, my lord. However, I fear you have
been granted access I have not. My Lord is far
more powerful than I, so it would stand to reason
(07:44):
you have visions too grand for me to comprehend.
Speaker 4 (07:50):
Ah, for all your words, you manage to say nothing.
Speaker 2 (07:54):
I shall gather more of the heart to may we
shall consult the suns and the ahs. The answer would
be somewhere or.
Speaker 1 (08:03):
Pharaoh nepherties summoned magicians and wise men from across the land,
bringing them to the palace. They listened to Pharaoh's dreams,
each offering interpretations, but Pharaoh's sensed they were merely inventing
narratives to appease him. Some cast sands into whetstone, others
consulted bones and blood. Despite their methods, the answers eluded them,
(08:26):
and they bickered amongst themselves, filling their palace halls with arguments.
Pharaoh gripped the sides of his throne, teeth clenched as
soothsayers insulted astronomers. Sorcerers shouted at alchemists, and priests turned
up their noses at the lot.
Speaker 4 (08:41):
Your fools, fools, Oh.
Speaker 1 (08:48):
The halls fell deftly silent. Pharaoh snarled at them, eyes
darting like fiery arrows.
Speaker 2 (08:55):
Lord Pharaoh, we seek on little silence.
Speaker 4 (09:00):
For days you have stood here, squawking amongst yourselves like birds.
You've given me no answers, yet here you remain in
my courts. I tire of your constant squabbles over whose
lie is better. Get out of my sight before I
(09:20):
have your tongues thrown in the nile.
Speaker 1 (09:23):
The court emptied instantly, priests and sorcerers scrambling to gather
their tools before fleeing the palace. Pharaoh watched them go,
His anger giving way to weariness, he held out.
Speaker 4 (09:36):
His cup wine.
Speaker 1 (09:40):
The cup bearer came at once and poured into Pharaoh's cup.
With eyes glazed over and weary, Pharaoh's sighed a moment
of vulnerable reflection, the.
Speaker 4 (09:51):
Dreams torturing me.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
He means something, I know it. It was at that
moment the cup bearers are eyes widened. His mind was
brought back to a time in prison when he too
was tormented by a dream, and the Hebrew prisoner showed
him kindness. The cup bearer gasped and nearly dropped the picture.
Speaker 2 (10:12):
Oh my, I.
Speaker 3 (10:14):
Have fulfailed him.
Speaker 2 (10:16):
I've committed a gus events.
Speaker 4 (10:19):
Oh what have you done to me? Do not tell
me something is wrong with my wine?
Speaker 3 (10:25):
Oh no, Lord Pharaoh, not you. I have remembered the
promise I've made years ago.
Speaker 2 (10:32):
A man helped me with my dreams.
Speaker 4 (10:36):
Do not delay any longer, cup bearer, who do you
speak of?
Speaker 3 (10:40):
When I was in prisoned, there was a man, a
young man, and a Hebrew of all people, a Hebrew, truly, yes,
a Hebrew of all people, My lord quite unexpected that
he was a servant under the Potiphar, your captain, But
(11:00):
as a prisoner he was our overseer. When I was
the dwelling there, the baker and I both had dreams
that tormented us. I was it was a simple dream. However,
he had tormented my mind to near insanity. The baker
(11:22):
also had a dream that remained in his mind. We
were both despondent and with hout answers, much.
Speaker 4 (11:30):
Like you are, my Lord, And this a Hebrew was
able to console you.
Speaker 3 (11:37):
More than that, good Pharaoh. He didn't just console us.
He interpreted how dreams. He explained that meaning the purpose,
and my Lord, everything he said came to pass. Everything
(11:57):
I was released, just as he foretold. He was impaled
on pike, just as the Hebrew predicted.
Speaker 1 (12:13):
His gentle face moistened with sorrow. He felt pangs of regret.
Joseph had done him a great kindness, and he had
forgotten about him.
Speaker 3 (12:24):
He has been there for five years. He claims to
be innocent, and I promised him I would tell you
about his dream gift, but I'd forgotten until now.
Speaker 1 (12:38):
The throne room was silent for a long moment. Pharaoh
paused and composed himself captain. His shouts shook the pillars,
traveling to every corner of the palace. Emerging from the
far corner of Pharaoh's courts was Potiphar. He stood at attention.
Speaker 4 (12:57):
Five years ago you imprisoned a Hebrew slave. What was
he like?
Speaker 1 (13:03):
Potiphar? Wore the same expression of regret as the cup bearer.
He paused, collecting his thoughts and considering how honest he
should be. Fatigued from feigned answers, Pharaoh shouted.
Speaker 4 (13:16):
The truth, Potiphar, do not pad your words with pleasantraes.
Speaker 5 (13:22):
Yes, Joseph was the greatest servant and friend I have
ever had, my Lord, I imprisoned him for a crime
he did not commit, and my pride and embarrassment kept
me from releasing him. When I came to my senses.
Speaker 4 (13:42):
Hi praise for a Hebrew and a slave at that.
Speaker 5 (13:47):
The Hebrews have one god, a god who seems to
follow Joseph. Whatever he goes. Everything I put into his
hand succeeded.
Speaker 4 (13:57):
Bring him to me, we shall see about this Hebrews gifts.
Speaker 1 (14:03):
Potipha saluted and left quickly for the Palace dungeons. He
made his way down the narrow stairway leading down into
the prison cells. Guards stood at attention every dozen yards,
saluting Potiphar as he passed. Potiphar finally approached the large
wooden door into the prison cell. He stood behind it
(14:25):
for a moment, collecting his thoughts. Not long after he
had sent Joseph to prison. He realized the sins of
his wife. However, out of embarrassment and anger, he allowed
Joseph to rot in prison. He was ashamed Joseph had
brought prosperity and order to his household, and he abandoned him.
Potipha sighed and opened the door. A few guards stood
(14:48):
behind him. He peered in to see prisoners walking and
lounging around. Their bodies were marred from years of sleepless
nights and cold winters. However, there was a joy amid
the prison the Potiphar had never seen before. They were
talking to one another, laughing and working on small projects
to pass the time. When Potiphar entered the entire room,
(15:11):
when silent, they retreated back against the wall and slumped over.
Potipha scanned the cell, looking for Joseph. However, he could
not see the young man he had once banished.
Speaker 5 (15:23):
I am looking for Joseph.
Speaker 1 (15:25):
The prisoners looked at each other, then towards a figure
in one of the rooms carved from stone. A man
knelt beside a sick prisoner, dabbing his head with a
wet cloth. Potiphar walked over to the hunched figure.
Speaker 4 (15:40):
Joseph.
Speaker 1 (15:42):
The man looked back and stood to his feet. He
was tall, dark and lean. His hair was long and
pulled back behind his head, except for a few loose
curls that hung over his face. His beard was long, scraggly,
and braided at the tips. Potifar it closely into his eyes.
There was no denying that those eyes belonged to Joseph.
(16:05):
Despite the years and the hardship, a serenity emanated from Joseph.
He had spent years contemplating what he would say to Potiphar.
He had felt betrayed and abandoned, But now looking at
his old friend and master, the peace of God filled him.
Joseph stepped forward, smiled and bowed slightly.
Speaker 2 (16:28):
My word a mere serviu.
Speaker 1 (16:30):
Potiphar's throat tightened with grief. He held his head low,
looking at Joseph with a mix of dismay and joy.
Without bringing drowned herds back to the surface, Potiphar cleared
his throat and gave a slight tilt of his head,
almost resembling a contrite bow. It was as much as
(16:51):
Potiphar could offer the slave turned prisoner.
Speaker 5 (16:54):
Aye, hear you have done well here. Your God truly
follows you. Were.
Speaker 2 (17:01):
God has granted me favor here. There is no pit
too low for his presence.
Speaker 5 (17:06):
Philo, summon you, and iye would be an honor to
escort you there.
Speaker 4 (17:12):
Young Joseph.
Speaker 1 (17:15):
Potiphar led Joseph out of the prison. He emerged from
the darkness and walked into the light of day. The
sun shone down brightly. Its warmth was invigorating. Joseph was
taken to Potiphar's estate. There he was greeted by Ned
and the other servants he once managed. They embraced him
as a brother. Joseph had forgotten how much he missed
(17:38):
the vineyards, courtyards, and stables. He breathed in the fresh
air and crumbled to the ground in tears. For five
years he was confined to the palace dungeons. The dark
and damp cell had stripped him of any hope he
would be free. He gripped the dirt beneath him and sobbed.
Speaker 2 (17:57):
Sake you, my God.
Speaker 1 (18:00):
Joseph was escorted to the bath house to be cleaned.
Flashes of that night with Potipha's wife came and went.
They shaved his face and gave him a fresh change
of clothes. Joseph felt like a new man. He had
emerged from the depths of darkness and was now walking
with a renewed sense of peace. God had raised him
(18:22):
up for a purpose. It was time to enter into
the courts of Pharaoh. The hallways were arrayed with beautiful
artwork of past conquests. Ivory pillars reached toward the ceiling.
They played with the torchlight to make shadows, playing off
Joseph's phlegmatic stare As Joseph walked down the halls, he
(18:46):
could see that every figure painted on the walls told
a singular story. They showcased the glory of Egypt and
the deity of Pharaoh. Joseph had been in Egypt long
enough to know that Pharaoh was considered equal to the gods. He,
to them, was the image of the gods, the holy
conduit from which the divine will flowed. His pride knew
(19:08):
no bounds, nor did his power that made him dangerous.
Joseph was escorted into the main throne room of Pharaoh. Noblemen, priests,
and guards stood on the perimeter, speaking amongst themselves. At
the center of the room, sitting on a throne adorned
with golden eagle's wings, sat the almighty Pharaoh. He was
(19:31):
tall and younger than Joseph had imagined. Weaved into the garment.
On his waist was leopard skin. Around his neck was
a large golden eagle stretching across his bare chest. On
his head was the Nemes head dress, symbolizing absolute power.
He held his scepter firmly in his right hand. He
(19:54):
was an intimidating sight to behold. Joseph had never seen
such power exude from one. Then again, according to the Egyptians,
he was no man at all. Joseph came before the
throne and bowed his knee. Pharaoh stood and stepped down
to him. He paced around him, gripping his scepter tightly.
Speaker 4 (20:16):
So you are the Hebrew called Joseph.
Speaker 2 (20:21):
At your service and will good Pharaoh.
Speaker 4 (20:25):
I hear lofty things about you, Hebrew. Is it true
that you are able to interpret it dreams. Joseph was
silent for a moment, pondering the correct answer to Pharaoh's question. Agitated,
Pharaoh slammed the tip of his scepter into the ground.
I require an answer.
Speaker 1 (20:46):
Joseph flinched at the noise. Pharaoh's voice echoed against the
palace walls. Everyone in the throne room stood in silence,
awaiting Joseph's reply. Without looking up, Joseph shook his head
and replied.
Speaker 2 (21:00):
No, my King, I cannot interpret any dreams.
Speaker 1 (21:04):
The entire court room gasped at his answer. Pharaoh's eyes
darted back at his cupbearer, and then at Potiphar.
Speaker 4 (21:12):
Have I been lied too? All your heads will be
thrown on some pikes for this.
Speaker 2 (21:17):
No, my good Pharaoh, Please do not harm.
Speaker 1 (21:19):
Them, Joseph interrupted. Joseph had learned much about himself since
he was first betrayed by his brothers. He learned that
it was his pride that muddied his giftings. He was
unable to enjoy the blessings and gifts God gave him
because he was filled with arrogance. He would not make
the same mistake again. He would not conflate his talent
(21:41):
with God's favor any longer. He knew that the true
palace did not lie within the hallways arrayed with gold,
but in a humble spirit before God. He held his
hands out in surrender to Pharaoh and looked up at him.
His eyes were filled with passion.
Speaker 2 (21:58):
I can do nothing, my king, any favor, gifting or
talent you've heard is not my own. It is the
God that I serve, who does these things. You asked
me if I was able to interpret dreams. I am
not abel, But my God is. He is powerful. All
wisdom and knowledge are his. It is he who will
(22:21):
tell you the answers you seek.
Speaker 4 (22:25):
Er very well, Hebrew, I shall tell you my two dreams. However,
if the answer you give does not quench my thirst
for the truth, it shall be your head, and no
god will be able to save you.
Speaker 2 (22:42):
I understand. Go on, my Lord.
Speaker 4 (22:45):
I dreamed. I was standing by the nile. The water
was dark and raging. I stood at the shore with
my feet submerged. There, I stared into the black rapids,
mesmerized by the sound rushing water. Then lights emerged from
the darkness. Out of the river. Seven cows walk on
(23:07):
to the shore. They were glowing, spotless, fat and healthy.
I watched as they methodically made their way toward the reefs.
The wind blew softly as the cows grazed in the
dawn grass. The sky was bright and the sun shone
its radiance down on the animals below.
Speaker 2 (23:29):
Sounds pleasant so far, indeed.
Speaker 4 (23:32):
Until the others came. I turned from the healthy cows
and looked up. The sun turned into a deep crimson,
and the skies were enveloped by clouds of dust and ash.
I saw the waters grow more violent. The waves thrashed
against me, sending me on to my back. And then,
(23:53):
like corpses clawing their way out of their graves, I
saw seven emaciated cows in merged from the nile. The
flesh was rotting off the bone, and every piece of
vegetation died under their feet. The seven deathly cows made
their way to the reeds. Then, to my horror, they
(24:13):
began to devour the seven healthy cows.
Speaker 2 (24:17):
I watched the carnage.
Speaker 4 (24:19):
They tore the flesh off their bones and ravaged them.
It was a monstrosity to behold. What do you say, Hebrew?
Speaker 2 (24:28):
You said you had two dreams, Mighty Pharaoh was the
second like the first?
Speaker 4 (24:33):
Yes and no. From the emptiness of my mind, A
small sprout appeared from the ground. I watched intently as
more sprouts formed around me. Seven sprouts sprang forth with
new life, producing seven heads of grain, healthy and ripe
(24:54):
for the plucking. I watched as they grew larger and
larger around me, reaching up to the heavens. I looked
up in awe as the blue skies seemed to kiss
the tips of the grain. They were magnificent and brought
tears to my eyes. However, my eye was short lived.
A blighted wind howled like a wolf in the distance.
(25:18):
It blew forth with might and power, scorching the earth
beneath me. I looked down, and the dry ground began
to crack under my feet. And from the cracks in
the dirt, seven other heads of grain sprouted. Only these
were thin, scorched and dark. Their dragged vines grew out
of the ground and wrapped around the healthy heads of grain.
(25:42):
They rapped lightly and squeezed the life out of the grain. Then,
as if beasts themselves, the blighted grain devoured the healthy. Slowly,
everything began to crumble and dissipate. Above me, the towers
of grain fell. Closed my eyes and do for cover,
(26:03):
and immediately woke.
Speaker 5 (26:04):
Again in my bed.
Speaker 1 (26:06):
Pharaoh finished describing his dreams. The entire court of priests,
nobles and gods held their breath in anticipation. They wanted
to hear Joseph's reply. He sat in silence for a moment,
Joseph stayed completely still. Joseph closed his eyes and did
his best to drown out the distraction of Pharaoh. He
(26:28):
prayed in his mind for answers. Joseph smirked. He could
feel a tug on his soul like a gentle breeze.
God guided Joseph into truth and revealed to him the
meaning of these dreams. Joseph opened his eyes and looked
directly into Pharaoh's.
Speaker 2 (26:46):
The dreams are the same.
Speaker 4 (26:48):
Go on.
Speaker 2 (26:50):
God has revealed to you what he is about to do.
The seven healthy cows in seven healthy ears of grain
are images of prosperity to come. Seven years there will
be plenty in the land. Egypt will experience a time
of flourishing like never before. The land will give birth
to new life, and your people will be fed. However,
(27:14):
this prosperity will come to an end. The seven sickly
cows and the seven scorched heads of grain, they represent
seven years of devastation. After seven years of plenty, seven
years of famine will strike the land like a wildfire.
This is the warning God has given to you. With
this knowledge comes a great deal of responsibility. It will
(27:39):
come to pass and if Egypt is not ready, the
entire world will perish.
Speaker 1 (27:45):
Pharaoh sat back on his throne with dismay. He was speechless.
Speaker 4 (27:51):
What must I do?
Speaker 1 (27:53):
Joseph looked back at Potiphar, not sure whether it would
be wise to give Pharaoh advice, for gestured for him
to answer.
Speaker 2 (28:02):
God has been gracious to you, Pharaoh, However, every moment
is precious. You should appoint a governor wise and discerning
enough to care for your resources. Appoint commissioners under him
to oversee the land. Every year of the harvest, take
one fifth of the goods and store it away. Over
(28:23):
the next seven years. You can store the grain and
other goods safely. Then when the famine hits, you can
use what is stored up to feed your people. The
same commissioners you appoint can be in charge of distributing
the resources according to the need.
Speaker 1 (28:41):
Pharaoh was silent for a long while. Joseph watched his
brow rise and fall with intense contemplation. Joseph felt the
need to shift his feet. He was uncomfortable with the waiting.
Was Pharaoh going to listen to him? Or would Joseph's
rise out of the pit be even shorter than the last.
(29:11):
This Prey dot Com production is only made possible by
our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Katina, Max Bard,
Zach Shellabarger and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of
The Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced
by Jonathan Cotten, Aaron Salvado, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold,
(29:33):
Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and Mitch Leshinsky.
Music by Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre
Rosalie and Chris Baig. You can hear more Prey dot
com productions on the Prey dot Com app, available on
the Apple App Store and Google play Store. If you
(29:53):
enjoyed The Chosen People, please rate and leave a review,
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