Bible Dictionary
Zaphnath-paaneah
Zaphnath-paaneah was the Egyptian name Pharaoh gave Joseph when he appointed him to high office. Its precise meaning is uncertain; proposed explanations include “revealer of secrets” and “preserver of life.”
Definition
Zaphnath-paaneah was the Egyptian name Pharaoh gave Joseph when he raised him to the rank of prime minister or grand vizier of Egypt. Its precise meaning is uncertain.
Biblical Usage
The name appears in the account of Joseph’s elevation to high office by Pharaoh.
Historical Background
The name is regarded as Egyptian and has received several explanations, including “preserver of life,” “creator,” “governor of the district of the place of life,” and “revealer of secrets.”
Scripture References
Related Figures
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
The name which Pharaoh gave to Joseph when he raised him to the rank of prime minister or grand vizier of the kingdom (Gen. 41:45). This is a pure Egyptian word, and has been variously explained. Some think it means “creator,” or “preserver of life.” Brugsch interprets it as “governor of the district of the place of life”, i.e., of Goshen, the chief city of which was Pithom, “the place of life.” Others explain it as meaning “a revealer of secrets,” or “the man to whom secrets are revealed.”