Genesis 42:13

KJV

And they said, Thy servants [are] twelve brethren, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan; and, behold, the youngest [is] this day with our father, and one [is] not.

KJV (with Strong's)

And they said {H559}, Thy servants {H5650} are twelve {H8147}{H6240} brethren {H251}, the sons {H1121} of one {H259} man {H376} in the land {H776} of Canaan {H3667}; and, behold, the youngest {H6996} is this day {H3117} with our father {H1}, and one {H259} is not.

Complete Jewish Bible

They said, "We, your servants, are twelve brothers, the sons of one man in the land of Kena'an; the youngest stayed with our father, and another one is gone."

Berean Standard Bible

But they answered, “Your servants are twelve brothers, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan. The youngest is now with our father, and one is no more.”

American Standard Version

And they said, We thy servants are twelve brethren, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan; and, behold, the youngest is this day with our father, and one is not.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 42:13 captures a moment of profound dramatic irony as Joseph's ten elder brothers, standing before the powerful Egyptian governor whom they do not recognize as their long-lost sibling, declare their family's composition. They state, "Thy servants [are] twelve brethren, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan; and, behold, the youngest [is] this day with our father, and one [is] not." This confession, delivered in a desperate attempt to prove their innocence against an accusation of espionage, inadvertently provides Joseph with critical information, setting in motion the next phase of his intricate divine plan to reunite his family and bring them to Egypt.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within the larger narrative of Joseph's life, specifically during the global famine that forces his family to seek sustenance in Egypt. Joseph, now the second-in-command, has already encountered his brothers, who bowed before him, unknowingly fulfilling his prophetic dreams from decades prior ([Genesis 37:5-11](/genesis/37-5-11 "Joseph's Prophetic Dreams")). Joseph, recognizing them immediately, orchestrates a series of tests to humble them and bring about their repentance and the eventual relocation of his entire family to Egypt. Their declaration in [Genesis 42:13](/genesis/42-13 "The Brothers' Confession to Joseph") is a direct response to Joseph's accusation that they are spies, a charge designed to elicit information about their family and to compel them to bring Benjamin, the youngest brother, to Egypt. This interaction is crucial for advancing the plot towards the family's ultimate reunion and reconciliation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative unfolds during a period of severe famine, a common and devastating occurrence in the ancient Near East, particularly in regions dependent on rainfall and river irrigation like Canaan and Egypt. Egypt, with its reliance on the Nile River and its sophisticated storage systems, was often a refuge during such crises, as evidenced by Joseph's prior preparations ([Genesis 41:47-49](/genesis/41-47-49 "Joseph's Famine Preparations")). The cultural expectation of hospitality and the severe penalties for espionage would have made the brothers' situation precarious, compelling them to offer a detailed account of their family to establish their credibility and peaceful intentions. Their journey from Canaan to Egypt for grain reflects the desperate measures people took to survive, highlighting the widespread impact of the famine and the providential foresight of Joseph's administration.

* **Key Themes:** [Genesis 42](/genesis/42 "Joseph Tests His Brothers") contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis. The **sovereignty of God** is paramount, as Joseph's rise to power and the famine itself are revealed to be part of God's overarching plan to preserve the covenant family and prepare them to become a great nation ([Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's Perspective on God's Plan")). The theme of **reconciliation and redemption** is central, as Joseph's actions are designed to bring his brothers to repentance for their past sin of selling him into slavery ([Genesis 37:28](/genesis/37-28 "Joseph Sold into Slavery")) and to restore their fractured family. Furthermore, the narrative explores the **consequences of sin** and the long-term impact of deception, as the brothers' guilt surfaces during their trials in Egypt ([Genesis 42:21](/genesis/42-21 "The Brothers' Confession of Guilt")). Finally, the **preservation of the covenant lineage** through Jacob's family is a key theological thread, ensuring the continuity of God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **said (Hebrew, _ʼâmar'_):** From H559, a primitive root meaning "to say (used with great latitude)." In this context, it signifies the brothers' verbal response to Joseph's accusation. Their words are not merely a casual remark but a formal declaration, made under duress, intended to convey truth and innocence. The act of speaking here is pivotal, as their words, though intended for one purpose, serve a higher, divine purpose unknown to them.
* **brethren (Hebrew, _ʼâch'_):** From H251, a primitive word meaning "a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance)." The brothers emphasize their familial bond, presenting themselves as a cohesive unit, sons of one father. This highlights the deep, inherent connection within the family, even one marred by past conflict, and underscores the irony that they are speaking of their "brethren" to the very brother they betrayed.
* **one (Hebrew, _ʼechâd'_):: From H259, a numeral meaning "properly, united, i.e. one; or (as an ordinal) first." This word appears twice in the verse. First, "one man," emphasizing their shared paternity and thus their non-spy status. Second, and most poignantly, "one [is] not." This stark declaration of Joseph's presumed absence (or death) carries immense emotional weight and serves as a direct, albeit unwitting, confession of the family's tragic history to the very person whose absence they lament.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And they said,"**: This opening phrase immediately establishes the brothers' direct response to Joseph's accusation. It marks the beginning of their attempt to defend themselves and provide information about their family, setting the stage for the unfolding drama and Joseph's subsequent actions.
* **"Thy servants [are] twelve brethren,"**: The brothers identify themselves as "servants" (a respectful address to a high official) and declare their full number as "twelve brethren." This statement is a factual account of Jacob's sons, including Joseph and Benjamin, though Joseph's presence is unknown to them, and Benjamin is absent from their current company. This declaration immediately catches Joseph's attention, confirming his prior knowledge and dreams.
* **"the sons of one man in the land of Canaan;"**: This clause further clarifies their identity, emphasizing their shared paternity and their origin from Canaan. This detail is crucial for authenticating their story and disproving the charge of being spies from various nations. It also provides Joseph with the geographical context of their home, reinforcing his recognition of them.
* **"and, behold, the youngest [is] this day with our father,"**: The brothers reveal the existence of their youngest brother, Benjamin, and his current location with their father, Jacob. This information is vital for Joseph's plan, as he knows Benjamin is the only full brother he has, and his presence is necessary for the complete family reunion. The phrase "this day" emphasizes the present reality of Benjamin's safety with Jacob.
* **"and one [is] not."**: This is the most poignant and ironic statement in the verse. The Hebrew phrase *einennu* (אֵיןֶנּוּ) literally means "he is not" or "he is no more." For the brothers, it is a stark declaration of Joseph's presumed death, a belief they have maintained for years. For Joseph, it is a painful, yet ultimately redemptive, reminder of their past sin and his long separation, confirming that his family still believes him lost. This declaration sets the stage for Joseph's demand for Benjamin, as he now knows the full extent of his family's current situation.

#### Literary Devices
The verse is rich in **Dramatic Irony**, as the audience, and Joseph, are aware of the truth that the brothers are unknowingly confessing to their long-lost sibling. Their declaration of "one [is] not" is a direct, yet unwitting, acknowledgment of Joseph's presumed death to the very person standing before them. This irony heightens the tension and emotional depth of the encounter. The narrative also employs **Foreshadowing**, as the mention of "the youngest" brother and his presence with their father directly sets up Joseph's subsequent demand for Benjamin, which will become a pivotal test for the brothers and a catalyst for Jacob's eventual journey to Egypt. Furthermore, the simple, stark phrase "and one [is] not" functions as **Poignancy**, evoking the deep sorrow and loss that has afflicted Jacob and, to some extent, the brothers themselves, for two decades. The brothers' words, intended to defend, inadvertently reveal the painful truth of their past and the sovereign hand of God at work.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 42:13 powerfully illustrates the intricate workings of God's **sovereignty** and **providence**. The brothers' seemingly spontaneous and defensive confession is, in fact, a crucial piece of information that Joseph needs to advance God's plan for the preservation of Jacob's family. Even their past sin of selling Joseph, and their current ignorance of his identity, are woven into a larger tapestry of divine purpose. This passage underscores that God can use human actions, both righteous and sinful, and even the natural course of events like famine, to achieve His ultimate will. It highlights the theme of **redemption and reconciliation**, as this encounter initiates the process through which the fractured family will be healed, and the brothers will confront their past guilt.

* [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's Words to His Brothers")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God Works All Things for Good")
* [Isaiah 46:10](/isaiah/46-10 "God Declares the End from the Beginning")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 42:13 serves as a profound reminder of God's meticulous involvement in the unfolding of history and individual lives. The brothers, in their desperation and ignorance, speak words that are perfectly aligned with God's redemptive agenda, even though they cannot perceive it. This should encourage us to cultivate a deep trust in God's **providence**, recognizing that His plans are often far grander and more intricate than our limited perspectives can grasp. It reminds us that God can use every detail, every conversation, and even the long-term consequences of past mistakes, to bring about His perfect will. This passage also invites us to consider the **unseen hand of God** at work in our own lives, especially during times of uncertainty or hardship. Just as Joseph was working behind the scenes, God is often orchestrating circumstances for our good and His glory, even when we are unaware. Our words and actions, however mundane or significant, can be instruments in His sovereign hand.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's sovereignty in the face of human ignorance or sin?**
* **Can you recall a time in your life when seemingly unrelated events or conversations ultimately contributed to a larger, providential outcome?**
* **What does the brothers' unwitting confession teach us about the eventual revelation of truth and the long-term consequences of our choices?**

### FAQ
**Why did Joseph's brothers not recognize him, but he recognized them?**

Answer: Joseph's appearance had transformed significantly over two decades. He was no longer the young shepherd boy they had known but a powerful Egyptian governor, likely clean-shaven, dressed in Egyptian attire, and speaking through an interpreter, all of which would have obscured his identity. Furthermore, they would have never expected to find their "dead" brother in such a high position. Conversely, Joseph would have easily recognized his brothers, as they likely looked similar to when he last saw them, and he had been actively anticipating their arrival, having interpreted his own prophetic dreams. The power dynamic and the passage of time created a veil for the brothers that did not exist for Joseph.

**What is the significance of the phrase "one [is] not"?**

Answer: The Hebrew phrase *einennu* (אֵיןֶנּוּ), meaning "he is not" or "he is no more," is profoundly significant. For the brothers, it was a stark and sorrowful declaration of Joseph's presumed death and absence, a belief they had allowed their father, Jacob, to endure for years. For Joseph, hearing these words from his brothers' lips was a painful confirmation of their deception and his long, lonely separation from his family. This phrase underscores the deep grief Jacob had suffered and the brothers' own suppressed guilt, setting the emotional and moral stage for their eventual repentance and reconciliation. It also provides Joseph with the critical information that Benjamin is still alive and with Jacob, which is essential for his unfolding plan.

**How does this verse demonstrate God's providence?**

Answer: This verse is a powerful illustration of God's intricate providence. The severe famine, the brothers' desperate journey to Egypt, their encounter with Joseph, and their spontaneous, detailed confession are all orchestrated by God. Their words, intended to prove their innocence as "not spies," unknowingly provide Joseph with the precise information he needs about Benjamin and Jacob. This allows Joseph to proceed with his plan to bring his entire family to Egypt, preserving the covenant lineage and setting the stage for the growth of the nation of Israel, all according to God's pre-ordained purposes, even through human ignorance and past wrongdoing. It exemplifies how God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, according to His purpose ([Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God Works All Things for Good")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
The narrative of Joseph, particularly this moment of veiled recognition and the subsequent path to reconciliation, powerfully prefigures the redemptive work of Christ. Just as Joseph, rejected by his brothers ([Genesis 37:28](/genesis/37-28 "Joseph Sold into Slavery")) and presumed dead, rose to a position of ultimate power in Egypt to save his family from famine, so too did Christ, rejected by His own people ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "Jesus Came to His Own")) and crucified, rise to ultimate authority as Lord and Savior ([Philippians 2:8-9](/philippians/2-8-9 "Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")). The brothers' unknowing confession to Joseph mirrors humanity's initial blindness to Christ's true identity and redemptive purpose, as many did not recognize Him as the Messiah ([2 Corinthians 4:4](/2_corinthians/4-4 "The God of This World Has Blinded Unbelievers")). Ultimately, Joseph's suffering and exaltation led to the preservation of a people and the fulfillment of God's covenant promises, just as Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection secured eternal life and reconciliation with God for all who believe ([2 Corinthians 5:18-19](/2_corinthians/5-18-19 "God Reconciled Us to Himself Through Christ")), bringing about a greater provision and spiritual nourishment than any earthly grain.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Genesis 37:30

And he returned unto his brethren, and said, The child [is] not; and I, whither shall I go?

Genesis 44:20

And we said unto my lord, We have a father, an old man, and a child of his old age, a little one; and his brother is dead, and he alone is left of his mother, and his father loveth him.

Genesis 42:32

We [be] twelve brethren, sons of our father; one [is] not, and the youngest [is] this day with our father in the land of Canaan.

Genesis 43:7

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?

Genesis 42:36

And Jacob their father said unto them, Me have ye bereaved [of my children]: Joseph [is] not, and Simeon [is] not, and ye will take Benjamin [away]: all these things are against me.

Matthew 2:18

In Rama was there a voice heard, lamentation, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping [for] her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.

Exodus 1:2

Reuben, Simeon, Levi, and Judah,