And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was troubled; and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all the wise men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream; but there was none that could interpret them unto Pharaoh.
He ... called for all the magicians, х charTumiym (H2748) (Exodus 7:11; Exodus 7:22; Exodus 8:3, etc.), probably from chereT, an iron stylus, whence they were called by Clemens Alexandrinus (6:, 633) hierogrammateis]. The Septuagint has exeegeetas, interpreters or explainers. They were the same as the magi of Babylon (Daniel 1:20; Daniel 11:2). But Havernick ('Historico Critical Introduction to Old Testament') considers it an Egyptian word; and Jablonski derives it from Chertom - i:e., thaumaturgus, a wonder-worker, a juggler.
The wise men, х chªkaamiym (H2450)] - the magi. It is not possible to define the exact distinction between "magicians" and "wise men;" but they formed different branches of a numerous body, who laid claim to supernatural skill in occult arts and sciences; in revealing mysteries, explaining portents, and, above all, interpreting dreams. Doubtless, their knowledge rested on some scientific basis; but long practice had rendered them expert in devising a plausible way of getting out of every difficulty, and framing an answer suitable to the occasion. But the dreams of Pharaoh baffled their united skill. Unlike their Assyrian brethren (Daniel 2:4), they did not pretend to know the meaning of the symbols contained in them; and the providence of God had determined that they should all be non-plussed in the exercise of their boasted powers, in order that the inspired wisdom of Joseph might the more remarkably appear.