In the biblical narrative, the account of Jacob sending his sons to Egypt to buy grain is a significant event that unfolds in the Book of Genesis. This episode is set against the backdrop of a severe famine that affected the entire region, including the land of Canaan where Jacob and his family resided.

Context and Background

Jacob, also known as Israel, was the patriarch of the Israelite tribes. He was the son of Isaac and the grandson of Abraham. Jacob had twelve sons, who would become the progenitors of the twelve tribes of Israel. Among his sons was Joseph, who, due to the jealousy of his brothers, was sold into slavery and taken to Egypt. Through a series of divinely orchestrated events, Joseph rose to prominence in Egypt, becoming second in command to Pharaoh and overseeing the storage and distribution of grain during the years of plenty and the subsequent famine.

The Famine and Jacob's Decision

The famine that struck the region was severe, as described in Genesis 41:54: "And the seven years of famine began, just as Joseph had said. There was famine in every land, but in the whole land of Egypt there was food." As the famine persisted, Jacob and his family faced the dire consequences of food scarcity. Hearing that there was grain available in Egypt, Jacob decided to send his sons to procure provisions for their survival.

Genesis 42:1-2 records Jacob's directive: "When Jacob learned that there was grain in Egypt, he said to his sons, 'Why are you staring at one another?' He continued, 'Look, I have heard that there is grain in Egypt. Go down there and buy some for us, so that we may live and not die.'"

The Journey to Egypt

Obeying their father's command, ten of Jacob's sons set out for Egypt, leaving behind Benjamin, the youngest, whom Jacob feared to lose after the presumed death of Joseph. Upon their arrival in Egypt, the brothers encountered Joseph, though they did not recognize him. Joseph, however, recognized his brothers and, concealing his identity, tested them to discern their character and intentions.

Significance and Themes

This episode is rich with themes of providence, reconciliation, and the unfolding of God's plan. The famine, while a natural disaster, serves as a catalyst for the reunification of Joseph with his family and the eventual migration of the Israelites to Egypt. It highlights God's sovereignty in using circumstances to fulfill His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Moreover, the narrative underscores the importance of obedience and trust in God's provision. Jacob's decision to send his sons to Egypt, despite the risks, reflects a reliance on divine guidance and the hope for sustenance amidst adversity.

Conclusion

Jacob's sending of his sons to Egypt to buy grain is a pivotal moment in the Genesis narrative, illustrating the interplay of human action and divine orchestration. It sets the stage for the subsequent events that lead to the Israelites' sojourn in Egypt, a foundational chapter in the history of God's chosen people. Through this account, readers are reminded of God's faithfulness and the intricate ways in which His purposes are achieved.Genesis 42:1,2
Now when Jacob saw that there was corn in Egypt, Jacob said to his sons, Why do you look one on another?
Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 43:1-14
And the famine was sore in the land.
Nave's Topical Index

Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested ...
... Thus Jacob's ten sons were to Egypt sent, But Joseph's brother ... all the land, And
all the corn of Egypt in his ... again, My lord, we're come Only to buy some food ...
/.../scriptural poems being several portions.htm

Faustus States his Objections to the Morality of the Law and the ...
... gain a shameful livelihood by her; [784] or how his son Jacob, husband of ... by God;
[789] or how Moses committed murder, [790] and plundered Egypt, [791] and ...
/.../faustus states his objections to.htm

An Exposition on the First Ten Chapters of Genesis, and Part of ...
The Works of John Bunyan Volumes 1-3. <. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/an exposition on the first.htm

The Life and Death of Mr. Badman,
... Christ sends his lambs in the midst of wolves, not to do like them, but to suffer
by them for bearing plain testimony against their bad deeds. ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the life and death of.htm

Life and Works of Rufinus with Jerome's Apology Against Rufinus.
... I know not whether of the two is to be accounted the happier, she who sends
the command or they who obey it in all its iniquity. ...
/.../various/life and works of rufinus with jeromes apology against rufinus /

Mr. Bunyan's Last Sermon:
... Secondly, Thou must abhor his labouring to render the cross odious unto thee; for
thou art to prefer it "before the treasures in Egypt" (Heb.11:25, 26). ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/mr bunyans last sermon .htm

part ii
... Ah, indeed some really do sell, and others buy, or think of buying, the gifts
of the Holy Ghost for silver, like Simon the sorcerer. ...
//christianbookshelf.org/calvin/my life in christ/part ii.htm

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