2-4. The _dreams_, however, are peculiarly Egyptian. Cattle along the river bank, and feeding on the _reed-grass_ (an Egyptian word for an Egyptian plant), was a common sight in that country, but must have been almost unknown in Canaan. And their coming up _out of the river_ was specially suitable, as they represented the years of plenty and famine, which in Egypt depend entirely on the rise of the Nile. 5-7. In the same way wheat with _several ears_ is known to have been produced in Egypt; but is nowhere mentioned as grown in Canaan. 8. Moreover, we know that the Pharaohs attached great importance to dreams, and used to consult their _magicians_ and _wise men_ when in doubt; both these classes being often mentioned--and mentioned together--on the monuments. 9-12. We also know that there were officials corresponding to the _chief butler_ and the _chief baker_. And a reference has even been found to the curious custom of the former giving the King _fresh grape-juice_, squeezed into a cup (Gen. 40. 11), which is not likely to have been known to anyone out of Egypt. 13. And hanging the chief baker evidently means, from Gen. 40. 19, hanging up the dead body, after he had been _beheaded_; which latter was an Egyptian, and not a Jewish, punishment. 14. Next we are told, that when Joseph was hurriedly sent for by Pharaoh, he yet stopped to _shave_. And this was only natural, as the upper class of Egyptians always shaved; but it would scarcely have occurred to anyone in Canaan, as the Israelites always wore beards.[28] [Footnote 28: 2 Sam. 10. 5.] 35. So again the custom of laying up corn in storehouses, to provide against the frequent famines, and for taxation, was thoroughly Egyptian, the Superintendent of the Granaries being a well-known official. But as far as we know nothing of the kind existed in Canaan. 39. We then come to the promotion of Joseph; and several instances are known of foreigners, and even slaves, being promoted to high offices in Egypt. 40. And the monuments show that it was the regular Egyptian custom to have a Superintendent, who should _be over the house_. 42. Joseph is then given Pharaoh's _signet ring_, the use of which, at this early period, has been fully confirmed by the inscriptions. And he also receives _fine linen_ (an Egyptian word being used for this) and a _gold chain about his neck_. This latter was a peculiarly Egyptian decoration, being called _receiving gold_, and is continually alluded to on the monuments. And a specimen may be seen in the Cairo Museum, which happens to date from about the time of Joseph.