Fixed ages in Joseph’s life
Genesis states several of Joseph’s ages directly. He was seventeen when feeding the flock with his brothers and reporting their evil report (Genesis 37:2). He was thirty when he stood before Pharaoh (Genesis 41:46). He died at a hundred and ten years (Genesis 50:22, 26).
Other ages follow from the seven years of plenty and the timing of the famine. Joseph was about thirty-seven when the famine began and about thirty-nine when his brothers’ second visit and Jacob’s arrival took place after two years of dearth.
From Canaan to Egypt
Sold by his brothers, Joseph was taken to Egypt and served in Potiphar’s house, then was imprisoned after false accusation. In prison he interpreted the dreams of Pharaoh’s butler and baker. Two full years later Pharaoh dreamed, the butler remembered Joseph, and Joseph was brought out to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams.
Promotion at thirty began the years of collection. During the plentiful years Joseph’s sons Manasseh and Ephraim were born. In the famine he preserved Egypt and eventually preserved his own family.
Chronology at a glance
Age 0: born to Jacob and Rachel. Age 17: sold into slavery. About 28: interprets the butler’s and baker’s dreams. Age 30: made ruler under Pharaoh. Ages 30–36: years of plenty; sons born. About 37: famine begins. About 39: reunited with Jacob. About 56: Jacob dies. Age 110: Joseph dies in Egypt and is embalmed.