Rashi introduces the idea that a good symbolic dream interpretation uses the motif method: One simple symbolic equation is stated which generates the interpretation of the whole dream.

In interpreting Pharoh's dreams Joseph introduces the following motific symbolic equation:

• Each animal or plant = one year.

In the next paragraph we present the first Biblical statement of Pharoh's cow dream,given in Biblical verses Gn43-01:04. The symbolic interpretation of each phrase is presented on its side in special font. Each symbolic interpretation is either natural or flows from the symbolic equation mentioned above. Those interpretations that are explicitly stated in Rashi are identified as such.

• And it came to pass at the end of two full years, that Pharaoh dreamed; [Background material ]
• and, behold, he stood by the river. [he reviewed the Egyptian economy which was supported by the Nile river ]
• And, behold, there came up from the river seven cows[seven years ]
• sleek and fat; [years of fat and plenty ]
• and they fed in the reed grass.[there was adequate support for the years of fat ]
• And, behold, seven other cows came up after them from the river, [another seven year period ]
• gaunt and thin; [years of emaciation ]
• and stood by the other cows upon the brink of the river. [the second set of years came immediately after the first set of years ]
• And the gaunt and thin cows consumed the seven sleek and fat cows. [Rashi: the memory of the years of fat was consumed by anguish of the years of emaciation ]
• And Pharaoh awoke.[Background material ]

Advanced Rashi: This approach of motific dream interpretation was first introduced in my article Maimonide's attitude towards Sacrifices.