The Return to Egypt with Benjamin 1Now the famine was still severe in the land. 2So when Jacob’s sons had eaten all the grain they had brought from Egypt, their father said to them, “Go back and buy us a little more food.” 3But Judah replied, “The man solemnly warned us, ‘You will not see my face again unless your brother is with you.’ 4If you will send our brother with us, we will go down and buy food for you. 5But if you will not send him, we will not go; for the man told us, ‘You will not see my face again unless your brother is with you.’” 6“Why did you bring this trouble upon me?” Israel asked. “Why did you tell the man you had another brother?” 7They replied, “The man questioned us in detail about ourselves and our family: ‘Is your father still alive? Do you have another brother?’ And we answered him accordingly. How could we possibly know that he would say, ‘Bring your brother here’?” 8And Judah said to his father Israel, “Send the boy with me, and we will go at once, so that we may live and not die—neither we, nor you, nor our children. 9I will guarantee his safety. You may hold me personally responsible. If I do not bring him back and set him before you, then may I bear the guilt before you all my life. 10If we had not delayed, we could have come and gone twice by now.” 11Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your packs and carry them down as a gift for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachios and almonds. 12Take double the silver with you so that you may return the silver that was put back into the mouths of your sacks. Perhaps it was a mistake. 13Take your brother as well, and return to the man at once. 14May God Almightya grant you mercy before the man, that he may release your other brother along with Benjamin. As for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved.” 15So the men took these gifts, along with double the amount of silver, and Benjamin as well. Then they hurried down to Egypt and stood before Joseph. Joseph’s Hospitality to His Brothers 16When Joseph saw Benjamin with his brothers, he said to the steward of his house, “Take these men to my house. Slaughter an animal and prepare it, for they shall dine with me at noon.” 17The man did as Joseph had commanded and took the brothers to Joseph’s house. 18But the brothers were frightened that they had been taken to Joseph’s house. “We have been brought here because of the silver that was returned in our bags the first time,” they said. “They intend to overpower us and take us as slaves, along with our donkeys.” 19So they approached Joseph’s steward and spoke to him at the entrance to the house. 20“Please, sir,” they said, “we really did come down here the first time to buy food. 21But when we came to the place we lodged for the night, we opened our sacks and, behold, each of us found his silver in the mouth of his sack! It was the full amount of our silver, and we have brought it back with us. 22We have brought additional silver with us to buy food. We do not know who put our silver in our sacks.” 23“It is fine,” said the steward. “Do not be afraid. Your God, the God of your father, gave you the treasure that was in your sacks. I received your silver.” Then he brought Simeon out to them. 24And the steward took the men into Joseph’s house, gave them water to wash their feet, and provided food for their donkeys. 25Since the brothers had been told that they were going to eat a meal there, they prepared their gift for Joseph’s arrival at noon. 26When Joseph came home, they presented him with the gifts they had brought, and they bowed to the ground before him. 27He asked if they were well, and then he asked, “How is your elderly father you told me about? Is he still alive?” 28“Your servant our father is well,” they answered. “He is still alive.” And they bowed down to honor him. 29When Joseph looked up and saw his brother Benjamin, his own mother’s son, he asked, “Is this your youngest brother, the one you told me about?” Then he declared, “May God be gracious to you, my son.” 30Joseph hurried out because he was moved to tears for his brother, and he went to a private room to weep. 31Then he washed his face and came back out. Regaining his composure, he said, “Serve the meal.” 32They separately served Joseph, his brothers, and the Egyptians. They ate separately because the Egyptians would not eat with the Hebrews, since that was detestable to them. 33They were seated before Joseph in order by age, from the firstborn to the youngest, and the men looked at one another in astonishment. 34When the portions were served to them from Joseph’s table, Benjamin’s portion was five times larger than any of the others. So they feasted and drank freely with Joseph. Footnotes: 14 a Hebrew El-Shaddai Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub  Genesis 43 Summary The Return to Egypt with BenjaminVerses 1–10 – The Reluctant Journey Forced by Famine Verses 11–14 – Gifts, Double Silver, and a Surrendered Heart Verses 15–17 – An Unexpected Invitation Verses 18–23 – Fear Dispelled by the Steward Verses 24–25 – Hospitality in a Foreign Land Verses 26–30 – Joseph’s Controlled Emotion Verses 31–34 – A Test Over the Dinner Table This chapter continues the narrative of Joseph and his brothers, delving into the themes of fear, trust, reconciliation, and divine providence. With the famine persisting, Jacob's sons must return to Egypt to buy food, bringing Benjamin along as per the request of the Egyptian official (unbeknownst to them, their own brother Joseph). The chapter captures the tension, fears, and ultimately, the reconciliation of a family torn apart. Historical Setting: Egypt’s Prolonged Famine Ancient Nile records, including the tomb of Ameni at Beni-Hasan, mention multi-year crop failures due to erratic flooding. Genesis 41:30 foretold seven years of famine; Genesis 43 finds the family in roughly year two. Archaeology corroborates the policy of centralized grain storage under strong rulers—exactly what Joseph administered. Family Dynamics: Judah the New Spokesman • Judah steps into a leadership role formerly held by Reuben (42:37). • His pledge (“I myself will be surety for him,” v. 9) marks a moral turn from the brother who once suggested selling Joseph (37:26-27). • This leadership foreshadows Jacob’s later blessing that kings will come from Judah (49:10). Cross-reference: 1 Samuel 17 shows David, Judah’s descendant, accepting personal risk for the nation. Diplomatic Gifts and Ancient Near Eastern Etiquette Balm, spices, and nuts were luxury items prized in Egypt (cf. 37:25). Offering gifts to a superior was normal protocol; Proverbs 18:16 notes, “A gift opens the way for the giver.” The brothers’ act is both courtesy and strategy, mirroring Jacob’s gifts to Esau in Genesis 32. Double Silver: Restitution and Honesty Returning the first trip’s silver demonstrates repentance (cf. Luke 19:8, Zacchaeus). The brothers refuse to benefit from unexplained money, reflecting Leviticus 6:2-5 long before that law was given. The Steward’s Assurance: Divine Credit in a Pagan Land Although Egyptian, the steward speaks of “your God.” Joseph’s faith evidently influenced his household, echoing Abraham’s servant in Genesis 24, who also honored the God of the patriarchs. Peace (Hebrew shalom) is the first word he offers—anticipating Christ’s post-resurrection greeting in John 20:19. Joseph’s House: Glimpses from Archaeology Large estates unearthed at Tell el-Dab’a (Avaris) feature private wells, storing rooms, and separate dining areas—matching the narrative’s water for feet, fodder for donkeys, and lunchroom divisions. Egyptians’ distaste for eating with Hebrews (v. 32) fits known dietary and purity taboos recorded in Herodotus 2.41. Benjamin’s Portions: Testing for Jealousy Joseph earlier suffered from favoritism; now he recreates the scenario by favoring Benjamin fivefold. The absence of envy proves transformation in the brothers. James 3:16 warns that jealousy breeds disorder; its absence here signals readiness for reconciliation. Foreshadowing and Bigger account Lines • A Father surrenders a beloved son for the survival of many—Jacob with Benjamin anticipates the Father sending Christ (John 3:16). • Joseph, unseen in identity, prepares a feast—a glimpse of the hidden Messiah who will one day reveal Himself (Luke 24:30-31). • The orderly seating hints at divine sovereignty over life’s details (Psalm 37:23). Practical Takeaways • Crisis can drive long-delayed repentance. • Leadership grows when someone shoulders responsibility, not merely offers words. • Honesty in financial matters honors God and disarms fear. • God’s peace can reach us even through unlikely messengers. • Genuine change is shown not by words but by how we respond when old temptations reappear. Linked Passages for Further Reading Genesis 32 (Jacob’s gift diplomacy) Deuteronomy 8:2-3 (God testing through hunger) Psalm 105:16-22 (Joseph’s rise in God’s plan) Romans 8:28 (God working through every circumstance) Connections to Additional Scriptures Proverbs 3:5-6Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Matthew 5:23-24 Therefore if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your gift there before the altar. First go and be reconciled to your brother; then come and offer your gift. Teaching Points The Severity of the FamineGenesis 43:1 highlights the dire situation Jacob's family faces, emphasizing the severity of the famine in the land. This sets the stage for the unfolding drama and the necessity of returning to Egypt. Judah's Leadership and Assurance In verses 3-10, Judah emerges as a leader, taking responsibility and offering assurance to Jacob. He pledges his own life for the safety of Benjamin, demonstrating growth and a sense of accountability. Jacob's Reluctant Consent Jacob's initial reluctance in verse 6 gives way to a reluctant consent in verse 11, showing his struggle between fear and faith. He instructs his sons to take gifts and double the money, hoping to find favor with the Egyptian ruler. Divine Providence at Work Verses 14-15 reveal Jacob's prayer for mercy and his acknowledgment of God's sovereignty, entrusting the situation to God Almighty (El Shaddai). Joseph's Emotional Response Upon seeing Benjamin, Joseph is deeply moved (verses 29-30). His emotional response underscores the familial bonds and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. The Brothers' Fear and Joseph's Generosity The brothers' fear of being accused of theft (verses 18-22) contrasts with Joseph's generous hospitality (verses 23-34), highlighting themes of fear, grace, and reconciliation. Practical Applications Trust in God's ProvisionLike Jacob, we may face situations that test our faith. Trusting in God's provision, even when circumstances seem bleak, is crucial. Leadership and Responsibility Judah's willingness to take responsibility for Benjamin teaches us the importance of stepping up and leading with integrity and accountability. Prayer and Surrender Jacob's prayer in verse 14 is a model for us to surrender our fears and uncertainties to God, trusting in His mercy and sovereignty. Reconciliation and Forgiveness Joseph's actions towards his brothers remind us of the power of forgiveness and the importance of reconciliation in our relationships. People 1. Jacob (Israel)The patriarch of the family, also known as Israel. He is the father of the twelve tribes of Israel. In Genesis 43, he is initially reluctant to send his youngest son, Benjamin, to Egypt but eventually agrees due to the severity of the famine. 2. Joseph The son of Jacob who was sold into slavery by his brothers and rose to become the governor of Egypt. In this chapter, he is in a position of power and is testing his brothers' integrity. 3. Judah One of Jacob's sons and a leader among his brothers. He pledges to take personal responsibility for Benjamin's safety, convincing Jacob to allow Benjamin to travel to Egypt. 4. Benjamin The youngest son of Jacob and the only full brother of Joseph. His presence is crucial for the brothers to obtain more grain from Egypt. 5. Simeon Another son of Jacob who was held in Egypt as a guarantee that the brothers would return with Benjamin. His release is part of the brothers' mission in this chapter. 6. The Brothers The collective group of Jacob's sons who travel to Egypt to buy grain. They are central to the narrative as they interact with Joseph, unaware of his true identity. 7. The Steward of Joseph's House An unnamed servant who manages Joseph's household. He plays a role in the brothers' visit by preparing a meal for them and following Joseph's instructions. 8. The Egyptian Servants These are the servants in Joseph's house who assist in serving the meal and attending to the brothers during their visit. In Genesis 43, the interactions between these individuals are pivotal in the unfolding of Joseph's plan to reunite with his family and test his brothers' character. The chapter highlights themes of reconciliation, responsibility, and providence. Places 1. CanaanCanaan is the land where Jacob and his sons reside. It is the region promised to Abraham and his descendants. In Genesis 43, it is the starting point of the journey for Jacob's sons as they go to Egypt to buy grain. The Hebrew root for Canaan is "כְּנַעַן" (Kena'an), which refers to the ancient region located in the Near East. 2. Egypt Egypt is the land where Joseph, one of Jacob's sons, has risen to power as the governor. It is the destination for Jacob's sons as they seek to buy grain during the famine. The Hebrew word for Egypt is "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim), which is often used in the Old Testament to refer to the nation known for its wealth and power. Events 1. Famine Persists in CanaanThe famine continues to be severe in the land of Canaan, prompting Jacob and his sons to seek more food. This situation sets the stage for the events that follow as the family faces the dire need for sustenance. 2. Jacob's Reluctance and Judah's Assurance Jacob initially hesitates to send Benjamin to Egypt, fearing for his safety. Judah steps forward, assuring his father that he will take personal responsibility for Benjamin's safe return, saying, "I myself will be surety for him; you may hold me personally accountable" (Genesis 43:9). 3. The Brothers Return to Egypt with Gifts The brothers prepare to return to Egypt, taking with them gifts for the Egyptian official (Joseph) and double the money to repay what was found in their sacks. This act of bringing gifts is rooted in the Hebrew tradition of appeasement and respect. 4. Joseph's Hospitality Upon their arrival, Joseph instructs his steward to bring the brothers to his house for a meal. This act of hospitality is significant in the ancient Near Eastern context, where sharing a meal symbolizes peace and fellowship. 5. The Brothers' Fear and Explanation The brothers express their fear to Joseph's steward, explaining the situation with the money found in their sacks. They seek to clear any misunderstanding, demonstrating their honesty and integrity. 6. Reunion with Simeon Simeon, who had been held in Egypt, is brought out to join his brothers. This reunion is a moment of relief and joy for the brothers, as they are once again united. 7. Joseph's Emotional Reaction Joseph is deeply moved upon seeing Benjamin, his full brother, and he withdraws to weep privately. This emotional response highlights the strong familial bonds and Joseph's internal struggle. 8. The Banquet Joseph hosts a banquet for his brothers, seating them according to their birth order, which astonishes them. The Hebrew concept of birthright and order is subtly emphasized here. 9. Benjamin's Favor Benjamin receives a portion five times larger than his brothers, indicating Joseph's special affection for him. This act foreshadows the favor and blessing that Benjamin will receive. 10. The Brothers' Departure After the meal, the brothers prepare to return to Canaan, unaware of the test Joseph has planned for them. This sets the stage for the subsequent events in the narrative. Topics 1. The Famine PersistsThe chapter begins with the ongoing severe famine in the land of Canaan, compelling Jacob's family to seek more grain from Egypt. This situation sets the stage for the unfolding events as the family faces the necessity of returning to Egypt. The Hebrew word for famine, "רָעָב" (ra'av), emphasizes the dire circumstances. 2. Judah's Assurance to Jacob Judah steps forward to assure his father, Jacob, that he will take personal responsibility for Benjamin's safety. This is a pivotal moment, as Judah's leadership and willingness to bear the blame forever (Genesis 43:9) highlight his transformation and foreshadow his future role in the lineage of Christ. 3. Jacob's Reluctant Consent Jacob reluctantly agrees to send Benjamin with his brothers to Egypt, instructing them to take gifts and double the money to appease the Egyptian ruler. His prayer for mercy (Genesis 43:14) reflects his dependence on God amidst uncertainty. The Hebrew word "רַחֲמִים" (rachamim) for mercy underscores the depth of his plea. 4. The Brothers Return to Egypt The brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin, and Joseph sees them. He instructs his steward to prepare a meal for them, indicating a shift in the narrative towards reconciliation. The Hebrew term "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom) is used to describe the peace Joseph extends to his brothers. 5. Joseph's Emotional Response Upon seeing Benjamin, Joseph is deeply moved and has to leave the room to weep. This emotional response reveals Joseph's inner conflict and compassion, as he continues to conceal his identity. The Hebrew word "רַחֲמִים" (rachamim) again appears, highlighting Joseph's tender feelings. 6. The Banquet Joseph hosts a banquet for his brothers, seating them according to their birth order, which astonishes them. Benjamin receives a portion five times larger than the others, symbolizing favor and foreshadowing future blessings. The Hebrew word "מִשְׁתֶּה" (mishteh) for banquet signifies a celebratory feast. 7. Testing the Brothers' Integrity Joseph's actions during the meal serve as a test of his brothers' integrity and attitudes towards Benjamin. Their reaction to Benjamin's favored treatment is crucial in assessing their character development since their betrayal of Joseph. Themes 1. Providence and Divine SovereigntyIn Genesis 43, the theme of God's providence and sovereignty is evident as the famine continues to affect the land, compelling Jacob's sons to return to Egypt for more grain. This situation underscores the belief that God orchestrates events for His purposes. The Hebrew word for "famine" (רָעָב, ra'av) highlights the severity of the situation, emphasizing the need for divine intervention. 2. Family and Reconciliation The chapter highlights the theme of family dynamics and the potential for reconciliation. Joseph's brothers return to Egypt, bringing Benjamin with them, as Joseph had requested. This sets the stage for eventual reconciliation, reflecting the importance of family unity and forgiveness. The Hebrew root for "brother" (אָח, ach) is central to this theme, emphasizing kinship and familial bonds. 3. Testing and Trust Joseph continues to test his brothers to see if they have changed since selling him into slavery. This theme of testing is crucial as it reveals the brothers' character development and their ability to trust one another and God. The Hebrew word for "test" (נָסָה, nasah) implies a trial or proving, which is evident in Joseph's interactions with his brothers. 4. Provision and Generosity The theme of provision is seen when Joseph, unbeknownst to his brothers, provides them with food and returns their money. This act of generosity foreshadows God's provision for His people. The Hebrew word for "provide" (יָסַף, yasaph) is related to Joseph's name, symbolizing increase and abundance. 5. Fear and Assurance The brothers experience fear when they are brought to Joseph's house, worried about being accused of theft. However, they are reassured by Joseph's steward, who tells them, "Peace to you; do not be afraid" (Genesis 43:23). The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) conveys a sense of completeness and safety, offering assurance amidst their fears. 6. Hospitality and Fellowship Joseph's hospitality towards his brothers, including a meal shared together, highlights the theme of fellowship. This act of sharing a meal is significant in the ancient Near Eastern context, symbolizing acceptance and relationship. The Hebrew word for "eat" (אָכַל, akal) is central to this theme, representing sustenance and communion. 7. Repentance and Redemption The chapter hints at the brothers' repentance and the possibility of redemption. Their willingness to bring Benjamin and their concern for their father's well-being indicate a change of heart. The Hebrew concept of "repentance" (תְּשׁוּבָה, teshuvah) involves turning back or returning, which is a key aspect of their journey towards redemption. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Genesis 43:2) How credible is it that a single famine could last so long without any corroborating historical or archaeological evidence? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Judah demonstrate responsibility and leadership in this chapter? What lessons can we learn from his actions? 2. How can we see God's providence at work in this chapter? 3. Why was Benjamin's portion of food five times larger, and what significance does this hold? 4. What can we learn about cultural differences from the Egyptians' refusal to eat with Hebrews? 5. How does fear influence the decisions and actions of Joseph's brothers in this chapter? 6. If you were in Joseph's position, how would you handle the reunion with your brothers? 7. How would you handle the situation if you were in the place of Jacob's sons, especially regarding the fear of enslavement? 8. What can we learn from Jacob's actions in allowing Benjamin to go to Egypt? 9. How does this chapter demonstrate the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation in resolving family conflicts? 10. How does the story reflect the consequences of past actions? 11. What role does trust play in the dynamics of this chapter? 12. How do the brothers show respect to Joseph, and why is this important? 13. What does this chapter teach us about dealing with fears and misunderstandings? 14. How does Joseph demonstrate compassion and control over his emotions? 15. Why do you think Joseph did not reveal his identity to his brothers at this point? 16. How does this story help us understand the importance of honesty? 17. How can we apply the lesson of divine providence in our lives today? 18. What role does faith play in the brothers' decision to return to Egypt? 19. If you were Judah, how would you convince Jacob to let Benjamin go with you? 20. What do we learn about making amends from the brothers' efforts to return the silver and offer gifts? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions |
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