Genesis 43 Commentary: Facing Famine and Family Reunion
And the famine was sore in the land.
And it came to pass, when they had eaten up the corn which they had brought out of Egypt, their father said unto them, Go again, buy us a little food.
And Judah spake unto him, saying, The man did solemnly protest unto us, saying, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.
If thou wilt send our brother with us, we will go down and buy thee food:
But if thou wilt not send him, we will not go down: for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.
And Israel said, Wherefore dealt ye so ill with me, as to tell the man whether ye had yet a brother?
And they said, The man asked us straitly of our state, and of our kindred, saying, Is your father yet alive? have ye another brother? and we told him according to the tenor of these words: could we certainly know that he would say, Bring your brother down?
And Judah said unto Israel his father, Send the lad with me, and we will arise and go; that we may live, and not die, both we, and thou, and also our little ones.
I will be surety for him; of my hand shalt thou require him: if I bring him not unto thee, and set him before thee, then let me bear the blame for ever:
For except we had lingered, surely now we had returned this second time.
And their father Israel said unto them, If it must be so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:
And take double money in your hand; and the money that was brought again in the mouth of your sacks, carry it again in your hand; peradventure it was an oversight:
Take also your brother, and arise, go again unto the man:
And God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may send away your other brother, and Benjamin. If I be bereaved of my children, I am bereaved.
And the men took that present, and they took double money in their hand, and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down to Egypt, and stood before Joseph.
And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the ruler of his house, Bring these men home, and slay, and make ready; for these men shall dine with me at noon.
And the man did as Joseph bade; and the man brought the men into Joseph’s house.
And the men were afraid, because they were brought into Joseph’s house; and they said, Because of the money that was returned in our sacks at the first time are we brought in; that he may seek occasion against us, and fall upon us, and take us for bondmen, and our asses.
And they came near to the steward of Joseph’s house, and they communed with him at the door of the house,
And said, O sir, we came indeed down at the first time to buy food:
And it came to pass, when we came to the inn, that we opened our sacks, and, behold, every man’s money was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight: and we have brought it again in our hand.
And other money have we brought down in our hands to buy food: we cannot tell who put our money in our sacks.
And he said, Peace be to you, fear not: your God, and the God of your father, hath given you treasure in your sacks: I had your money. And he brought Simeon out unto them.
And the man brought the men into Joseph’s house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet; and he gave their asses provender.
And they made ready the present against Joseph came at noon: for they heard that they should eat bread there.
And when Joseph came home, they brought him the present which was in their hand into the house, and bowed themselves to him to the earth.
And he asked them of their welfare, and said, Is your father well, the old man of whom ye spake? Is he yet alive?
And they answered, Thy servant our father is in good health, he is yet alive. And they bowed down their heads, and made obeisance.
And he lifted up his eyes, and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother’s son, and said, Is this your younger brother, of whom ye spake unto me? And he said, God be gracious unto thee, my son.
And Joseph made haste; for his bowels did yearn upon his brother: and he sought where to weep; and he entered into his chamber, and wept there.
And he washed his face, and went out, and refrained himself, and said, Set on bread.
And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves: because the Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that is an abomination unto the Egyptians.
And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth: and the men marvelled one at another.
And he took and sent messes unto them from before him: but Benjamin’s mess was five times so much as any of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.
Genesis 43 is a pivotal chapter in the Joseph narrative. Following the events of Genesis 42, where Jacob's sons journeyed to Egypt for grain and encountered the imposing Egyptian governor (unbeknownst to them, their brother Joseph), this chapter delves deeper into themes of desperation, familial responsibility, and God's providential hand at work. The specter of famine looms large, forcing Jacob and his sons to confront difficult choices, ultimately setting the stage for a dramatic reunion and revelation.
The Reluctant Decision (Genesis 43:1-10)
The chapter opens with the stark reality of a prolonged famine. The grain brought back from Egypt is dwindling, and Jacob is forced to face the inevitable: another trip is necessary to secure the survival of his family (Genesis 43:1-2). However, the condition set by the Egyptian governor – the presence of Benjamin – creates a significant dilemma. Jacob, still grieving the presumed loss of Joseph and fiercely protective of his youngest son Benjamin, is unwilling to risk further heartbreak (Genesis 42:38).
Judah steps forward, demonstrating a marked change in character. Recall that Judah was instrumental in the initial plot to sell Joseph into slavery. Now, he takes on the responsibility of ensuring Benjamin's safe return, even offering his own life as collateral (Genesis 43:8-9). "If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame before you forever," Judah vows, revealing a heart transformed by time and perhaps a growing awareness of the gravity of his past actions. This moment highlights the potential for redemption and the long-term impact of our choices. Judah’s willingness to put himself on the line for Benjamin illustrates a profound shift in his character, showcasing the potential for growth and change even after significant moral failings.
Jacob's initial resistance underscores his human frailty. He blames his sons for revealing Benjamin's existence to the Egyptian governor (Genesis 43:6), highlighting his fear and perhaps a tendency to avoid taking responsibility. However, Judah's persuasive arguments, coupled with the dire circumstances, eventually sway Jacob. He recognizes that the survival of his entire family, including the little ones, hinges on this journey (Genesis 43:10). It’s often when we have nowhere else to turn that we are finally willing to look to God for deliverance.
Preparing for the Journey (Genesis 43:11-14)
Finally relenting, Jacob instructs his sons to prepare for the journey back to Egypt. He advises them to take a gift for the Egyptian ruler, including "a little balsam and a little honey, aromatic gum and resin, pistachios and almonds" (Genesis 43:11), valuable local products intended to curry favor. He also insists on returning double the amount of money, both to repay the previous purchase and to buy more grain. This demonstrates Jacob's attempt to rectify any perceived wrongdoing and to approach the situation with wisdom and prudence.
Significantly, Jacob accompanies his instructions with a prayer: "May God Almighty grant you mercy before the man so that he will let your other brother and Benjamin come back with you" (Genesis 43:14). This prayer, though tinged with pessimism – Jacob seems to assume Benjamin might not return – marks a turning point. He acknowledges his dependence on God's grace and mercy, entrusting his sons' fate to a higher power. Even though he sent them out with a prayer and a blessing, Jacob was patently pessimistic. He assumed that Benjamin would die (Genesis 43:14).
Reunion and Revelation (Genesis 43:15-34)
Upon their return to Egypt, the brothers are taken to Joseph's house, a development that understandably fills them with apprehension (Genesis 43:16-18). They fear they are being lured into a trap because of the money found in their sacks during their previous trip. Approaching Joseph's steward, they attempt to explain the situation, but the steward offers a surprising response: "Your God and the God of your father must have put treasure in your bags" (Genesis 43:23). This suggests that Joseph's faith had influenced his household, an Egyptian servant invoking the name of the Hebrew God! This detail subtly reveals the pervasive influence of Joseph's faith, even in a foreign land. It begs the question, Are you speaking up about God in every moment of your life—in the moments of adversity as well as in the moments of prosperity?
The steward then releases Simeon, reuniting him with his brothers (Genesis 43:24). When Joseph arrives, he sees Benjamin for the first time in over two decades. Overwhelmed with emotion, he has to excuse himself to weep privately (Genesis 43:30). This poignant moment reveals the depth of Joseph's love for his family and the inner turmoil he experiences as he maintains his disguise. Knowing that to do so would cause suspicion, though, Joseph rushed away until he could regain composure (Genesis 43:31).
The meal that follows is meticulously orchestrated by Joseph. He seats his brothers in order of their age, a detail that astounds them (Genesis 43:33). How could this Egyptian ruler know their birth order? This seemingly impossible knowledge adds to the mystery and heightens the tension. Furthermore, Joseph gives Benjamin five times the portion of the other brothers (Genesis 43:34), a deliberate act designed to test their jealousy and potentially reveal their true character. The chapter concludes with a sense of unease and anticipation. The brothers are enjoying the meal, but the reader knows that Joseph has further tests in store before he finally reveals his identity.
Key Themes and Applications
Genesis 43 is rich in themes that resonate with contemporary readers:
- Familial Responsibility: The chapter highlights the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and the well-being of our families. Judah's transformation exemplifies the potential for growth and redemption.
- God's Providence: Even in the midst of famine and uncertainty, God's hand is at work, orchestrating events to fulfill His purposes. The steward's acknowledgment of God's role in the brothers' lives underscores this theme.
- The Power of Forgiveness: While not explicitly stated, the chapter hints at the possibility of reconciliation and forgiveness. Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin suggests a deep longing for restored relationships.
- Trusting God in Difficult Times: Jacob's initial resistance and eventual prayer remind us to trust in God's provision, even when circumstances seem bleak.
Genesis 43 teaches us that even in times of scarcity and hardship, God is present, working through imperfect people to accomplish His will. It encourages us to take responsibility for our actions, to trust in God's provision, and to seek reconciliation with those we have wronged. Just as Judah stepped up to protect Benjamin, we too are called to act with courage and compassion, trusting that God will use our efforts to bring about His good purposes.
And the famine was sore in the land.
And it came to pass, when they had eaten up the corn which they had brought out of Egypt, their father said unto them, Go again, buy us a little food.
And Judah spake unto him, saying, The man did solemnly protest unto us, saying, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.
If thou wilt send our brother with us, we will go down and buy thee food:
But if thou wilt not send him, we will not go down: for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.
And Israel said, Wherefore dealt ye so ill with me, as to tell the man whether ye had yet a brother?
And they said, The man asked us straitly of our state, and of our kindred, saying, Is your father yet alive? have ye another brother? and we told him according to the tenor of these words: could we certainly know that he would say, Bring your brother down?
And Judah said unto Israel his father, Send the lad with me, and we will arise and go; that we may live, and not die, both we, and thou, and also our little ones.
I will be surety for him; of my hand shalt thou require him: if I bring him not unto thee, and set him before thee, then let me bear the blame for ever:
For except we had lingered, surely now we had returned this second time.
And their father Israel said unto them, If it must be so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:
And take double money in your hand; and the money that was brought again in the mouth of your sacks, carry it again in your hand; peradventure it was an oversight:
Take also your brother, and arise, go again unto the man:
And God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may send away your other brother, and Benjamin. If I be bereaved of my children, I am bereaved.
And the men took that present, and they took double money in their hand, and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down to Egypt, and stood before Joseph.
And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the ruler of his house, Bring these men home, and slay, and make ready; for these men shall dine with me at noon.
And the man did as Joseph bade; and the man brought the men into Joseph’s house.
And the men were afraid, because they were brought into Joseph’s house; and they said, Because of the money that was returned in our sacks at the first time are we brought in; that he may seek occasion against us, and fall upon us, and take us for bondmen, and our asses.
And they came near to the steward of Joseph’s house, and they communed with him at the door of the house,
And said, O sir, we came indeed down at the first time to buy food:
And it came to pass, when we came to the inn, that we opened our sacks, and, behold, every man’s money was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight: and we have brought it again in our hand.
And other money have we brought down in our hands to buy food: we cannot tell who put our money in our sacks.
And he said, Peace be to you, fear not: your God, and the God of your father, hath given you treasure in your sacks: I had your money. And he brought Simeon out unto them.
And the man brought the men into Joseph’s house, and gave them water, and they washed their feet; and he gave their asses provender.
And they made ready the present against Joseph came at noon: for they heard that they should eat bread there.
And when Joseph came home, they brought him the present which was in their hand into the house, and bowed themselves to him to the earth.
And he asked them of their welfare, and said, Is your father well, the old man of whom ye spake? Is he yet alive?
And they answered, Thy servant our father is in good health, he is yet alive. And they bowed down their heads, and made obeisance.
And he lifted up his eyes, and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother’s son, and said, Is this your younger brother, of whom ye spake unto me? And he said, God be gracious unto thee, my son.
And Joseph made haste; for his bowels did yearn upon his brother: and he sought where to weep; and he entered into his chamber, and wept there.
And he washed his face, and went out, and refrained himself, and said, Set on bread.
And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves: because the Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that is an abomination unto the Egyptians.
And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth: and the men marvelled one at another.
And he took and sent messes unto them from before him: but Benjamin’s mess was five times so much as any of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.
Genesis 43 is a pivotal chapter in the Joseph narrative. Following the events of Genesis 42, where Jacob's sons journeyed to Egypt for grain and encountered the imposing Egyptian governor (unbeknownst to them, their brother Joseph), this chapter delves deeper into themes of desperation, familial responsibility, and God's providential hand at work. The specter of famine looms large, forcing Jacob and his sons to confront difficult choices, ultimately setting the stage for a dramatic reunion and revelation.
The Reluctant Decision (Genesis 43:1-10)
The chapter opens with the stark reality of a prolonged famine. The grain brought back from Egypt is dwindling, and Jacob is forced to face the inevitable: another trip is necessary to secure the survival of his family (Genesis 43:1-2). However, the condition set by the Egyptian governor – the presence of Benjamin – creates a significant dilemma. Jacob, still grieving the presumed loss of Joseph and fiercely protective of his youngest son Benjamin, is unwilling to risk further heartbreak (Genesis 42:38).
Judah steps forward, demonstrating a marked change in character. Recall that Judah was instrumental in the initial plot to sell Joseph into slavery. Now, he takes on the responsibility of ensuring Benjamin's safe return, even offering his own life as collateral (Genesis 43:8-9). "If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame before you forever," Judah vows, revealing a heart transformed by time and perhaps a growing awareness of the gravity of his past actions. This moment highlights the potential for redemption and the long-term impact of our choices. Judah’s willingness to put himself on the line for Benjamin illustrates a profound shift in his character, showcasing the potential for growth and change even after significant moral failings.
Jacob's initial resistance underscores his human frailty. He blames his sons for revealing Benjamin's existence to the Egyptian governor (Genesis 43:6), highlighting his fear and perhaps a tendency to avoid taking responsibility. However, Judah's persuasive arguments, coupled with the dire circumstances, eventually sway Jacob. He recognizes that the survival of his entire family, including the little ones, hinges on this journey (Genesis 43:10). It’s often when we have nowhere else to turn that we are finally willing to look to God for deliverance.
Preparing for the Journey (Genesis 43:11-14)
Finally relenting, Jacob instructs his sons to prepare for the journey back to Egypt. He advises them to take a gift for the Egyptian ruler, including "a little balsam and a little honey, aromatic gum and resin, pistachios and almonds" (Genesis 43:11), valuable local products intended to curry favor. He also insists on returning double the amount of money, both to repay the previous purchase and to buy more grain. This demonstrates Jacob's attempt to rectify any perceived wrongdoing and to approach the situation with wisdom and prudence.
Significantly, Jacob accompanies his instructions with a prayer: "May God Almighty grant you mercy before the man so that he will let your other brother and Benjamin come back with you" (Genesis 43:14). This prayer, though tinged with pessimism – Jacob seems to assume Benjamin might not return – marks a turning point. He acknowledges his dependence on God's grace and mercy, entrusting his sons' fate to a higher power. Even though he sent them out with a prayer and a blessing, Jacob was patently pessimistic. He assumed that Benjamin would die (Genesis 43:14).
Reunion and Revelation (Genesis 43:15-34)
Upon their return to Egypt, the brothers are taken to Joseph's house, a development that understandably fills them with apprehension (Genesis 43:16-18). They fear they are being lured into a trap because of the money found in their sacks during their previous trip. Approaching Joseph's steward, they attempt to explain the situation, but the steward offers a surprising response: "Your God and the God of your father must have put treasure in your bags" (Genesis 43:23). This suggests that Joseph's faith had influenced his household, an Egyptian servant invoking the name of the Hebrew God! This detail subtly reveals the pervasive influence of Joseph's faith, even in a foreign land. It begs the question, Are you speaking up about God in every moment of your life—in the moments of adversity as well as in the moments of prosperity?
The steward then releases Simeon, reuniting him with his brothers (Genesis 43:24). When Joseph arrives, he sees Benjamin for the first time in over two decades. Overwhelmed with emotion, he has to excuse himself to weep privately (Genesis 43:30). This poignant moment reveals the depth of Joseph's love for his family and the inner turmoil he experiences as he maintains his disguise. Knowing that to do so would cause suspicion, though, Joseph rushed away until he could regain composure (Genesis 43:31).
The meal that follows is meticulously orchestrated by Joseph. He seats his brothers in order of their age, a detail that astounds them (Genesis 43:33). How could this Egyptian ruler know their birth order? This seemingly impossible knowledge adds to the mystery and heightens the tension. Furthermore, Joseph gives Benjamin five times the portion of the other brothers (Genesis 43:34), a deliberate act designed to test their jealousy and potentially reveal their true character. The chapter concludes with a sense of unease and anticipation. The brothers are enjoying the meal, but the reader knows that Joseph has further tests in store before he finally reveals his identity.
Key Themes and Applications
Genesis 43 is rich in themes that resonate with contemporary readers:
- Familial Responsibility: The chapter highlights the importance of taking responsibility for our actions and the well-being of our families. Judah's transformation exemplifies the potential for growth and redemption.
- God's Providence: Even in the midst of famine and uncertainty, God's hand is at work, orchestrating events to fulfill His purposes. The steward's acknowledgment of God's role in the brothers' lives underscores this theme.
- The Power of Forgiveness: While not explicitly stated, the chapter hints at the possibility of reconciliation and forgiveness. Joseph's emotional response to seeing Benjamin suggests a deep longing for restored relationships.
- Trusting God in Difficult Times: Jacob's initial resistance and eventual prayer remind us to trust in God's provision, even when circumstances seem bleak.
Genesis 43 teaches us that even in times of scarcity and hardship, God is present, working through imperfect people to accomplish His will. It encourages us to take responsibility for our actions, to trust in God's provision, and to seek reconciliation with those we have wronged. Just as Judah stepped up to protect Benjamin, we too are called to act with courage and compassion, trusting that God will use our efforts to bring about His good purposes.