The Return to Egypt with Benjamin

Genesis 43 continues the saga of Joseph and his brothers, focusing on their return trip to Egypt with their youngest brother, Benjamin. This chapter deals with themes of trust, provision, and reconciliation, underscoring the unfolding of God’s redemptive plans through family dynamics.

The Decision to Return to Egypt

• Famine Continues: As the famine persists, Jacob’s family consumes all the grain previously bought in Egypt. Jacob instructs his sons to go back and buy more food, but Judah reminds him of the man (Joseph) in Egypt who warned that they must not return without their youngest brother, Benjamin (Genesis 43:1-5).
• Judah’s Pledge for Benjamin: Judah persuades Jacob to send Benjamin with him, offering himself as a guarantee for the boy’s safety. Reluctantly, Jacob agrees, instructing them to bring gifts and double the silver to pay for the grain and return the silver that was put back in their sacks (Genesis 43:8-14).

Joseph’s Hospitality

The Brothers’ Arrival in Egypt

• Joseph’s Reaction to Seeing Benjamin: Upon their arrival, Joseph is overwhelmed with emotion upon seeing his full brother Benjamin. He arranges a special meal at his house, where the brothers are taken (Genesis 43:15-17).
• The Brothers’ Fear and Explanation: The brothers fear they are being brought to Joseph’s house because of the silver that was returned in their sacks. They explain the situation to the steward, who reassures them, attributing the silver to their God and the God of their father (Genesis 43:18-23).

The Meal at Joseph’s House

• Joseph Meets Benjamin: Joseph returns to his house, speaks kindly to his brothers, and is particularly moved by the sight of Benjamin. He has to leave the room to weep privately, overwhelmed by his emotions. Returning composed, he hosts the meal, giving Benjamin five times as much food as the others, testing his brothers’ jealousy and attitudes (Genesis 43:26-34).

Theological Significance and Connection to Jesus Christ

Christological Symbolism

• Joseph’s Grace and Foresight: Joseph’s gracious treatment of his brothers, despite their previous betrayal, mirrors Christ’s forgiveness and grace towards sinners. His strategic planning to reveal his identity only at the right moment parallels Christ’s revelation in the New Testament.
• Feast Symbolism: The feast, particularly the abundance given to Benjamin, symbolizes the feast of salvation available in Jesus Christ, where those who were once alienated from God are welcomed with abundance.

Divine Love and Its Implications

• Provision and Reconciliation: The narrative highlights God’s provision through Joseph, who administers grain (a symbol of life) not only to Egypt but to other nations, including his family. This act of providing essential resources parallels God’s provision of spiritual sustenance through Christ.
• Restoration of Family Bonds: The ongoing theme of familial restoration, seen through the interactions between Joseph, Benjamin, and their brothers, underscores God’s desire for reconciliation and healing within families.

Contemporary Relevance

Why Genesis 43 Still Matters Today

• Handling of Misunderstandings and Reconciliation: The brothers’ fear of retribution for the silver, and the subsequent clarification and reassurance, serve as a model for addressing misunderstandings directly to foster reconciliation.
• Responsibility and Redemption: Judah’s offer to secure Benjamin’s safety highlights themes of responsibility and personal sacrifice, which are crucial in leadership and personal relationships.
• Trusting in Divine Outcomes: The chapter encourages believers to trust in God’s unseen plans, especially in times of uncertainty and distress, reminding them that God often works through complex circumstances to achieve His purposes.

Genesis 43 not only advances the story of Joseph and his brothers but also enriches our understanding of God’s providence, the power of forgiveness, and the process of reconciliation, offering timeless lessons for personal growth and spiritual reflection.