Bible Dictionary
ZAPHENATH-PANEAH, ZAPHNATH-PAANEAH
Zaphenath-paneah was the Egyptian name given to Joseph when Pharaoh promoted him to authority over Egypt. The name is associated with Joseph’s role in providing and administering the nation’s food supply.
Definition
Zaphenath-paneah, also written Zaphnath-paaneah, was the Egyptian name given to Joseph by the Egyptian king who promoted him. The name is explained as “the one who furnishes the nourishment of life,” or chief steward of the realm.
Biblical Usage
Joseph received this name when Pharaoh elevated him to authority in Egypt, as recorded in Genesis 41:45.
Historical Background
The supplied material gives Egyptian and Septuagint forms of the name and identifies the king probably as the Hyksos ruler Aphophis.
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
International Standard Bible Encyclopedia (ISBE)
<p>zaf-e'-nath-pa-ne'-a, zaf'-nath-pa-a-ne'a (tsaphenath pa`aneach; Egyptian Zoph-ent-pa-ankh; Septuagint D, Psonthomphantch, "the one who furnishes the nourishment of life," i.e. the chief steward of the realm): The name given Joseph by the Egyptian king by whom he was promoted, probably the Hyksos king Aphophis (Ge 41:45).</p><p>See JOSEPH.</p>