Genesis 43:2

So 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."

Study Bible

And when they had used up the grain
This phrase indicates a period of consumption and necessity. The Hebrew root for "used up" is "kalah," which means to be finished or completed. This suggests a sense of urgency and desperation, as the family had exhausted their resources. Historically, this reflects the severe famine that had spread across the land, emphasizing the dire circumstances that Jacob's family faced. It serves as a reminder of human dependency on God's provision and the natural cycles He controls.

they had brought from Egypt
Egypt, in this context, is a place of provision and sustenance. The Hebrew name for Egypt, "Mitzrayim," often symbolizes a place of both refuge and bondage in the Bible. Here, it is a source of life-sustaining grain during a time of famine. This duality highlights the complexity of Egypt's role in the biblical narrative, serving as a temporary solution to a pressing problem. It also foreshadows the eventual enslavement of the Israelites, reminding readers of the transient nature of earthly solutions.

their father said to them
Jacob, the patriarch, is the speaker here. His role as the head of the family is significant, as he is responsible for the welfare of his household. The Hebrew word for "father" is "ab," which denotes not only a biological relationship but also a position of authority and responsibility. Jacob's directive underscores the patriarchal structure of ancient Israelite society, where the father's word carried weight and direction for the family.

Go back and buy us a little more food
This command reflects both a practical and a spiritual dimension. The act of "going back" suggests a return to a place of previous provision, indicating reliance on God's past mercies. The Hebrew verb "shuv," meaning to return, can also imply repentance or turning back to God. The phrase "buy us a little more food" highlights the humility and dependence of Jacob's family. Despite their status, they are reduced to purchasing sustenance, a humbling reminder of human frailty and the need for divine intervention. This request for "a little more" signifies hope and trust in God's continued provision, even in times of scarcity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the family, father of the twelve tribes of Israel. In this verse, he is concerned about the survival of his family during a severe famine.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who had previously traveled to Egypt to buy grain. They are central to the unfolding account of reconciliation and redemption.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph, Jacob's son, has risen to power and where grain is available during the famine. It serves as a place of both physical sustenance and spiritual testing.

4. Famine
A severe shortage of food affecting the region, driving Jacob's family to seek sustenance in Egypt. It is a catalyst for the unfolding events and the eventual reunion of Joseph with his family.

5. Grain
The essential commodity that Jacob's family needs to survive, symbolizing God's provision and the means through which He orchestrates His plans.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Provision
Just as Jacob had to rely on the grain from Egypt, we are called to trust in God's provision for our needs, both physical and spiritual.

God's Sovereignty in Trials
The famine, though a trial, was used by God to bring about His purposes. We can trust that God is sovereign over our circumstances and works through them for His glory.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The journey to Egypt sets the stage for reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers. We are reminded of the importance of seeking and offering forgiveness in our relationships.

Faith in Action
Jacob's directive to return to Egypt demonstrates faith in action. We are encouraged to act in faith, trusting that God will guide and provide for us.

Family and Responsibility
Jacob's concern for his family's survival highlights the importance of caring for and taking responsibility for our loved ones.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's decision to send his sons back to Egypt demonstrate trust in God's provision, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the famine serve as a catalyst for God's plan in the account of Joseph, and how can we see God's hand in our own trials?

3. How does the theme of reconciliation in Joseph's account encourage us to pursue forgiveness and healing in our relationships?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faith in action, as seen in Jacob's decision to send his sons back to Egypt?

5. How does the responsibility Jacob feels for his family challenge us to care for and support our own families in times of need?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
The preceding chapter provides context for the brothers' initial journey to Egypt and their first encounter with Joseph, setting the stage for the events in Genesis 43.

Genesis 45
This chapter reveals Joseph's identity to his brothers, highlighting themes of forgiveness and God's sovereignty in using difficult circumstances for good.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about God's provision and the importance of trusting Him for our daily needs, echoing the reliance on God's provision seen in Jacob's family.

Romans 8:28
This verse speaks to God's ability to work all things for good, a theme evident in the unfolding account of Joseph and his brothers.