Definition: And they brought their cattle unto Joseph: and Joseph gave them bread [in exchange] for horses, and for the flocks, and for the cattle of the herds, and for the asses: and he fed them with bread for all their cattle for that year.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 47:17. It's a really important story about Joseph! Here's what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Joseph is a skilled man. He’s known for being clever and resourceful. He helps his brothers. When their father, Jacob, dies, Joseph’s brothers don’t want to live under his name. So they decide to run away and ask Joseph to take them as slaves. They bring him cattle. They bring a lot of livestock (cattle, sheep, etc.) to Joseph's home. Joseph gives them food. He gives them food – bread, in this case – in exchange for the livestock. It’s like a trade! He uses the livestock for their benefit. Joseph doesn't just give them food; he uses the animals to feed all of his brothers’ cattle for one whole year. What it's about: This verse is about trust, responsibility, and Joseph's amazing abilities. It shows: Joseph’s Wisdom: He understood that giving something in exchange was a good way to help people. His Responsibility: He wasn’t just handing out food; he was using it wisely to benefit his brothers. Divine Providence: It's a bit mysterious, but the verse suggests God is working through Joseph to help his family. In short, it's a story about a clever man who used his skills to care for his brothers and provide them with a good life. --- Do you have any specific questions about this verse that I can answer for you? For example, would you like me to: Explain what the "exchange" means in more detail? Discuss why Joseph is considered a "wise man?" Or perhaps you'd like me to give you another Bible verse to read and explain?