Genesis 47:3

Pharaoh said unto his brethren.

The interest the king manifests gives us. very favorable idea of his character. Oriental monarchs have generally secluded themselves from the public eye and been very difficult of access. Pharaoh, however, seems to be easily approached, to act like an ordinary mortal and to manifest. deep interest in human affairs. He asks the Hebrews about their occupation and they reply as Joseph had instructed them.

Thy servants are shepherds, both we, and also our fathers.

The calling was not esteemed among the Egyptians (see Genesis 46:34) where the fertility of the Nile valley, invited the people to agriculture. Besides, the shepherds of the border, the nomadic Arabs, had long marauded in Egypt. In addition,. shepherd race, the Hyksos, the " Shepherd Kings," had conquered and oppressed Egypt for 250 years. Still it was needful that the king should know that these Hebrews were shepherds in order that he might assign them to. region suited to their calling.