Genesis 42:7

And when Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them, but he treated them as strangers and spoke harshly to them. "Where have you come from?" he asked. "From the land of Canaan," they replied. "We are here to buy food."

Study Bible

And when Joseph saw his brothers, he recognized them
Joseph's recognition of his brothers is significant, as it highlights his position of power and authority in Egypt, contrasting with his earlier vulnerability when they sold him into slavery. This moment fulfills the dreams Joseph had in Genesis 37, where his brothers' sheaves bowed to his. The recognition also sets the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan for the family of Israel.

but he treated them as strangers and spoke harshly to them
Joseph's harsh treatment can be seen as a test of his brothers' character and repentance. It reflects the wisdom and discernment he has gained through his experiences in Egypt. This approach also serves to conceal his identity, allowing him to observe their behavior and intentions without bias. The harshness may also symbolize the severity of their past actions against him.

“Where have you come from?” he asked
This question serves both as a practical inquiry and a deeper probing into their motives. It reflects Joseph's cautiousness and desire to gather information about his family and the situation in Canaan. The question also echoes the theme of exile and return, as the brothers have come from the Promised Land to a foreign land in search of sustenance.

“From the land of Canaan,” they replied
Canaan is significant as the land promised to Abraham and his descendants. The mention of Canaan underscores the ongoing narrative of God's covenant with Abraham's lineage. It also highlights the dire circumstances in Canaan due to the famine, which has driven the brothers to seek help in Egypt, thus fulfilling God's plan to preserve the family through Joseph.

“We are here to buy food.”
This statement reveals the brothers' immediate need and desperation due to the famine. It also sets the stage for the unfolding of God's provision through Joseph, who has been placed in a position to save not only Egypt but also his own family. The act of buying food symbolizes the physical and spiritual sustenance that God provides, foreshadowing the future provision through Christ, the Bread of Life.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. In this verse, he encounters his brothers for the first time since they sold him.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who come to Egypt to buy food during a famine. They do not recognize Joseph, whom they sold into slavery years earlier.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers come to buy grain during the famine.

4. Canaan
The land where Joseph's family resides and from which his brothers travel to Egypt to purchase food.

5. Famine
A severe shortage of food that affects the entire region, prompting Joseph's brothers to travel to Egypt.

Teaching Points

Recognition and Testing
Joseph recognizes his brothers, but they do not recognize him. This can symbolize how God often sees and knows us even when we do not recognize His work in our lives. Joseph's testing of his brothers can be seen as a way to discern their character and repentance.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Although Joseph initially speaks harshly, his actions ultimately lead to reconciliation. This teaches us the importance of forgiveness and the process of healing broken relationships.

Providence and Sovereignty
Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and his encounter with his brothers highlight God's providential plan. Despite human actions, God's purposes prevail, reminding us to trust in His sovereignty.

The Role of Conscience
The brothers' guilt over their past actions is evident in their interactions with Joseph. This serves as a reminder of the role of conscience in leading us to repentance and restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's initial treatment of his brothers reflect his internal struggle between justice and mercy? How can we apply this balance in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the theme of God's providence? Can you think of a time in your life when you saw God's hand at work despite difficult circumstances?

3. How does Joseph's eventual forgiveness of his brothers align with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament? What steps can we take to forgive those who have wronged us?

4. What role does repentance play in the account of Joseph and his brothers? How can we ensure that our own repentance is genuine and leads to reconciliation?

5. How can the account of Joseph encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, even when we face betrayal or hardship? What scriptures can you find that reinforce this trust?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's relationship with his brothers, including their jealousy and betrayal, which sets the stage for the events in Genesis 42.

Genesis 45
Later in the account, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, showing a progression from harshness to reconciliation.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving your enemies can be contrasted with Joseph's initial harsh treatment of his brothers.

Romans 12:19
This verse speaks about leaving vengeance to God, which can be related to Joseph's restraint in not immediately revealing himself or seeking revenge.