tell us how large a population existed at this time, but he uses four verbs to express the fact that the multiplication was great. The family had grown into a nation; they were fruitful, increased abundantly, multiplied, and grew exceedingly mighty. It was this prosperity that posed a threat and invited disaster. It is probable that the name of Joseph was unknown to the “new king,” and any sentiment of gratitude toward the children of Israel was forgotten. In Genesis 46:3–4, we read the promise to