Genesis 43:15

So 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.

Study Bible

So the men took these gifts
The phrase "the men" refers to Joseph's brothers, the sons of Jacob. In the Hebrew context, the word for "men" is "אֲנָשִׁים" (anashim), which can denote not just males but also individuals of significance or responsibility. The "gifts" they took were intended to appease the Egyptian official, who unbeknownst to them, was their brother Joseph. This act of bringing gifts is reminiscent of ancient Near Eastern customs where gifts were often used to gain favor or show respect, especially when approaching someone of higher status.

double the money
The phrase "double the money" indicates the brothers' intention to return the money they found in their sacks from their previous journey, along with additional funds to purchase more grain. This reflects their integrity and desire to rectify any perceived wrongdoing. In the Hebrew text, the word for "money" is "כֶּסֶף" (kesef), which also means "silver," highlighting the economic practices of the time where silver was a common medium of exchange.

and Benjamin as well
Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob and the only full brother of Joseph, is a central figure in this narrative. His presence was crucial because Joseph had demanded to see him as proof of the brothers' honesty. The Hebrew name "בִּנְיָמִין" (Binyamin) means "son of the right hand" or "son of the south," indicating a position of favor or strength. This journey marks a significant moment of trust and vulnerability for Jacob, who feared losing another beloved son.

They hurried down to Egypt
The urgency in "hurried down" suggests the brothers' eagerness to resolve the situation and secure food during the famine. The geographical reference to "down to Egypt" is consistent with the topographical reality, as Canaan is situated at a higher elevation than Egypt. This journey underscores the historical and economic ties between Canaan and Egypt, especially during times of famine.

and presented themselves before Joseph
The act of presenting themselves "before Joseph" is laden with dramatic irony, as the brothers are unaware of Joseph's true identity. The Hebrew root "נָצַב" (natsav), meaning "to stand" or "to present oneself," conveys a sense of formality and submission. This encounter is pivotal in the unfolding of God's providential plan, as Joseph's dreams from Genesis 37 begin to come to fruition. The brothers' submission before Joseph foreshadows the eventual reconciliation and fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham's descendants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Men (Joseph's Brothers)
These are the sons of Jacob, who are returning to Egypt to buy more grain during a severe famine. They include Reuben, Judah, and their brothers, who are central figures in the account of Joseph.

2. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and Joseph's full brother. His presence is crucial because Joseph had insisted on seeing him as a condition for further trade.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph, now a powerful official, resides. It is a place of refuge during the famine but also a place of testing and revelation for Joseph's brothers.

4. Joseph
The governor of Egypt, who is actually their brother, though they do not recognize him. He is orchestrating events to test his brothers' integrity and repentance.

5. The Gifts and Double Money
The brothers bring gifts and double the money to show their honesty and to appease the Egyptian official (Joseph), reflecting their fear and respect for him.

Teaching Points

Integrity and Repentance
The brothers' actions in bringing double the money and gifts reflect a change in their character, showing integrity and a desire to make amends for past wrongs.

God's Sovereignty in Trials
The famine and the brothers' journey to Egypt are part of God's larger plan to bring about reconciliation and fulfill His promises to Abraham's descendants.

The Role of Fear and Respect
The brothers' fear of the Egyptian official (Joseph) leads them to act with caution and respect, illustrating how fear can lead to wisdom and careful actions.

Family and Forgiveness
The account sets the stage for eventual forgiveness and restoration within the family, highlighting the importance of reconciliation in relationships.

Trust in God's Provision
Despite the dire circumstances, the brothers' journey to Egypt is a step of faith, trusting in God's provision through the resources available in Egypt.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the brothers' decision to bring double the money and gifts reflect their change in character since their first visit to Egypt?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty and provision during difficult times?

3. How can we apply the principle of integrity and repentance in our own lives when we have wronged others?

4. What role does fear play in the brothers' actions, and how can a healthy fear of God lead us to make wise decisions?

5. How does the eventual reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers encourage us to pursue forgiveness and restoration in our own family relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
The previous chapter sets the stage for this journey, where Joseph's brothers first go to Egypt and are accused of being spies. This chapter highlights the ongoing theme of testing and reconciliation.

Genesis 44
The subsequent chapter continues the account, where Joseph tests his brothers further, particularly focusing on their treatment of Benjamin.

Genesis 45
This chapter reveals Joseph's identity to his brothers, culminating in forgiveness and family restoration, a key theme in the account.

Proverbs 21:14
This verse speaks to the power of a gift to pacify anger, which is relevant to the brothers' strategy in bringing gifts to Joseph.