Verses 40-45 describe the installation or investiture of Joseph to the highest position in the king’s government.

Over my house: my house refers here to the king’s palace, court, or government. In later times in Judah and Israel, the chief officer was said to be in charge of the palace, as in 1 Kgs 4.6; 16.9. Bible en français courant translates “administrator of my kingdom,” New Jerusalem Bible “my chancellor,” New Jerusalem Bible “in charge of my court.” We may also say, for example, “in charge of my government” or “the chief officer in my palace.”

My people shall order themselves as you command: this appears to say literally “at your mouth all my people shall be ordered.” The word translated “ordered” is of uncertain meaning. Hebrew Old Testament Text Project suggests three possibilities:
(1) “and to your word (command), all my people shall pay homage,”
(2) “and … (command), all my people shall be nourished,”
(3) “and … (command), all my people shall be equipped (or: armed).”

Hebrew Old Testament Text Project adds “It is not possible to decide which of these interpretations is the best one.”

Although they do not conform entirely to the first recommendation of Hebrew Old Testament Text Project, Revised English Bible “all my people will respect your every word” and Good News Translation “all my people will obey your orders” give us two model translations to follow.

Only as regards the throne will I be greater than you: throne is used here as a symbol of authority or power. This may be translated, for example, “Only because I am the king will I be greater than you.” We may also state this negatively: “You will be less than me only because I am the king.”

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Genesis. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .