Genesis 43:11

KJV

¶ 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:

KJV (with Strong's)

And their father {H1} Israel {H3478} said {H559} unto them, If it must be so now {H645}, do {H6213} this; take {H3947} of the best fruits {H2173} in the land {H776} in your vessels {H3627}, and carry down {H3381} the man {H376} a present {H4503}, a little {H4592} balm {H6875}, and a little {H4592} honey {H1706}, spices {H5219}, and myrrh {H3910}, nuts {H992}, and almonds {H8247}:

Complete Jewish Bible

Their father Isra'el answered them, "If that's how it is, do this: take in your containers some of the land's best products, and bring the man a gift - some healing resin, a little honey, aromatic gum, opium, pistachio nuts and almonds.

Berean Standard Bible

Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your packs and carry them down as a gift for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachios and almonds.

American Standard Version

And their father Israel said unto them, If it be so now, do this: take of the choice fruits of the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spicery and myrrh, nuts, and almonds;

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 43:11 captures the poignant moment of Jacob's reluctant surrender to the escalating famine, which compels him to send his beloved youngest son, Benjamin, to Egypt. Driven by the dire necessity for food and a strategic desire to appease the powerful Egyptian governor, Jacob meticulously instructs his sons to prepare and carry a carefully selected tribute of the finest produce from the land of Canaan, hoping to secure favor, ensure their safe return, and ultimately, preserve his family.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at a critical juncture in the Joseph narrative, specifically within the broader story of Jacob's family's interaction with Egypt during a severe famine. Previously, Jacob's ten elder sons had traveled to Egypt to buy grain, only to be accused of espionage by the powerful governor (Joseph, though they did not recognize him). Joseph had demanded they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, to him as proof of their honesty, holding Simeon as collateral ([read about Joseph's demand for Benjamin](/genesis/42-18-20 "Joseph's Demand for Benjamin in Genesis 42:18-20")). Jacob had vehemently refused, fearing for Benjamin's life after the presumed loss of Joseph ([Jacob's anguish over Benjamin](/genesis/42-36-38 "Jacob's Anguish over Benjamin in Genesis 42:36-38")). However, as the famine worsened and their existing food supply was depleted, Judah steps forward, guaranteeing Benjamin's safety with his own life ([Judah's pledge for Benjamin](/genesis/43-8-9 "Judah's Pledge for Benjamin in Genesis 43:8-9")). Jacob's words in [Genesis 43:11](/genesis/43-11 "Genesis 43:11 - Jacob Sends Benjamin to Egypt with Gifts") mark his agonizing, yet necessary, capitulation to these circumstances, setting the stage for the brothers' second journey to Egypt and the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The ancient Near East was highly susceptible to famine, often caused by drought, which could devastate agricultural societies. Egypt, with its reliance on the Nile River's annual inundation, was typically more resilient, making it a crucial source of grain during regional food shortages, as seen in [the account of the seven years of plenty and famine](/genesis/41-47-57 "The Seven Years of Plenty and Famine in Genesis 41"). The practice of bringing gifts or tribute to powerful rulers or officials was a common and essential diplomatic custom. Such offerings served multiple purposes: to gain an audience, to express respect, to seek favor, to atone for perceived offenses, or to secure protection or trade agreements. The value and nature of the gifts often reflected the giver's status and the importance of the request. Jacob's selection of specific items—balm, honey, spices, myrrh, nuts, and almonds—reflects the unique produce of Canaan, items that would have been considered valuable, even luxurious, in Egypt, demonstrating a genuine effort to impress and appease the governor.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. It highlights the theme of **Divine Providence**, as God's unseen hand is orchestrating events, using the famine and Jacob's reluctant decision to bring about His larger plan for the preservation of Jacob's family and the fulfillment of His covenant promises, a theme echoed in [Joseph's later declaration](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's declaration of God's purpose in Genesis 50:20"). It also underscores the theme of **Human Responsibility and Wisdom** in the face of crisis; despite his profound anguish and fear, Jacob acts with practical wisdom, making careful preparations and taking strategic steps to navigate the dire situation. Furthermore, the necessity of sending Benjamin and the accompanying gifts foreshadows the theme of **Reconciliation and Atonement**, as these actions, born out of desperation, inadvertently pave the way for the mending of broken family relationships and the ultimate restoration between Joseph and his brothers, a concept found throughout the narrative of [Joseph and his brothers](/genesis/42-45 "The Story of Joseph and His Brothers in Genesis 42-45").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Israel (Hebrew, _Yisrâʼêl'_):** From the root meaning "he will rule as God," this is the symbolic name given to Jacob after his struggle with God ([Genesis 32:28](/genesis/32-28 "Jacob's Name Changed to Israel")). Its use here emphasizes Jacob's identity as the patriarch of God's chosen people, highlighting the profound spiritual and covenantal implications of his decisions, even in moments of deep personal distress. It underscores that the fate of God's covenant family rests on his choices.
* **best fruits (Hebrew, _zimrâh'_):** Derived from a root meaning "to prune," this term literally refers to "pruned" or "choice" fruit. It signifies the highest quality produce, the choicest yield of the land. Jacob's instruction to take "the best fruits" indicates a deliberate effort to offer a gift of significant value and respect, demonstrating his earnest desire to gain favor and underscore the importance of his plea, even from a land suffering from famine.
* **present (Hebrew, _minchâh'_):** This word denotes a donation, tribute, or offering. While it can refer to a sacrificial offering (often bloodless), in this context, it functions as a diplomatic gift or tribute intended to appease a superior, secure an audience, or gain favor. Jacob's use of "present" reveals his strategic intent to soften the Egyptian governor's heart and ensure a favorable outcome for his sons and the acquisition of grain, recognizing the power dynamics at play.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And their father Israel said unto them,"**: This opening clause establishes the speaker as Jacob, now bearing the covenant name "Israel," emphasizing his patriarchal authority and the weight of his words. It sets the scene for a pivotal command given to his sons, highlighting the familial and national stakes involved.
* **"If [it must be] so now, do this;"**: This phrase powerfully conveys Jacob's profound reluctance and resignation. The "If it must be so now" (Hebrew: *'êphôw*) expresses a desperate acknowledgment of unavoidable necessity, a surrender to circumstances that he initially resisted with all his might. It underscores the direness of the famine and the family's absolute dependence on Egypt for survival, marking a moment of anguish and submission to an unavoidable fate. The command "do this" then introduces his specific instructions.
* **"take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels,"**: Jacob instructs his sons to gather the highest quality produce available in Canaan. This command emphasizes the value and respect intended for the Egyptian governor. The phrase "in your vessels" indicates the practical preparation for carrying these precious items on their journey, highlighting Jacob's meticulous planning despite his emotional distress.
* **"and carry down the man a present,"**: This clause specifies the purpose of the gathered items: they are a "present" (*minchâh*), a strategic tribute intended for "the man"—the powerful Egyptian governor, Joseph, whose true identity remains unknown to them. This act of sending tribute was a common practice in ancient Near Eastern diplomacy, aimed at gaining an audience, securing favor, and ensuring a positive outcome.
* **"a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:"**: This detailed list enumerates the specific items comprising the tribute. Each item was considered valuable and often luxurious in the ancient world. "Balm" (tsori) was a valuable medicinal and aromatic resin; "honey" (debash) likely referred to date syrup or other sweet fruit products; "spices" (nekô'th) were aromatic gums or powders; "myrrh" (lôṭ) was a fragrant gum resin used in perfumes and anointing oils; "nuts" (bôṭen) were likely pistachio nuts; and "almonds" (shâqêd) were a prized delicacy. Collectively, these gifts represent the choicest produce of Canaan, serving as a tangible expression of respect, humility, and an earnest plea for favor from Jacob's family.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several literary devices to convey its profound meaning. **Irony** is prominent, as Jacob's desperate attempt to appease an unknown Egyptian official is, unbeknownst to him, an offering to his own son, Joseph, whom he believed lost. This dramatic irony heightens the tension and foreshadows the eventual revelation and reconciliation. **Symbolism** is evident in the carefully selected gifts themselves; they are not merely commodities but represent the "best" of Canaan, symbolizing a gesture of humility, respect, and a plea for life from a land in distress. The inclusion of "a little balm" may even carry a symbolic hope for healing and restoration, subtly hinting at the mending of broken relationships. Furthermore, the phrase "If it must be so now" functions as a powerful expression of **Resignation**, conveying Jacob's deep anguish and the overwhelming force of circumstances that compel him to act against his deepest fears.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 43:11 powerfully illustrates the tension between human fear and divine providence. Despite Jacob's profound anguish and the seemingly insurmountable challenges of famine and the demand for Benjamin, God is sovereignly orchestrating events for the preservation of His covenant people. Jacob's practical wisdom in preparing a valuable gift demonstrates human responsibility, but it is God's unseen hand that guides these actions to fulfill His larger redemptive plan. The gifts, intended to appease an unknown ruler, ultimately serve as a catalyst for the reconciliation of a fractured family, pointing to God's ability to bring good out of difficult circumstances and to restore what was broken.

* [Proverbs 18:16](/proverbs/18-16 "Proverbs 18:16 - A Gift Opens the Way")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works for Good")
* [Philippians 4:18](/philippians/4-18 "Philippians 4:18 - A Fragrant Offering")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 43:11 offers profound insights for believers navigating moments of profound uncertainty and fear. Jacob's reluctant surrender, marked by his phrase "If it must be so now," reminds us that there are times when circumstances beyond our control compel us to take steps we dread. Yet, even in his anguish, Jacob demonstrates remarkable practical wisdom, meticulously preparing a generous offering. This teaches us the importance of acting prudently and responsibly, even when our faith is tested and our hearts are heavy. We are called to exercise wisdom, make necessary preparations, and take proactive steps, trusting that God can use our human efforts, however imperfect or fear-driven, to accomplish His divine purposes. Furthermore, the passage subtly underscores the power of humble gestures and the pursuit of reconciliation; these gifts, born of necessity, ultimately paved the way for a profound family reunion, reminding us that acts of giving and seeking favor can be vital steps towards restoring broken relationships and fostering peace. Ultimately, Jacob's actions, though steeped in fear, align with God's overarching plan to preserve his chosen family, encouraging us to trust in divine providence and God's sovereign hand, even when circumstances seem bleak or fearful, knowing that God is at work behind the scenes, bringing about His good and perfect will.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "must be so now" in your life, prompting a difficult decision or reluctant surrender?**
* **How can you apply Jacob's practical wisdom and careful preparation to current challenges, even when fear is present?**
* **In what ways might a "gift" or humble gesture, even if difficult, open doors for reconciliation or resolution in your relationships?**

### FAQ
**Why did Jacob insist on sending gifts to the Egyptian governor?**

Answer: Jacob sent gifts primarily to appease the powerful Egyptian governor and secure his favor. He understood that a valuable present could open doors, demonstrate respect, and potentially soften the official's stance, increasing the likelihood of his sons' safe return and the successful acquisition of more grain. It was a common diplomatic practice in the ancient Near East, where gifts were essential for gaining an audience and demonstrating earnestness, as seen in [Proverbs 18:16](/proverbs/18-16 "Proverbs 18:16 - A Gift Makes Room").

**What was the significance of the specific items Jacob chose as gifts?**

Answer: The specific items—balm, honey, spices, myrrh, nuts, and almonds—were chosen because they were highly valued, often exotic, and considered luxuries in ancient Egypt. They represented the "best fruits" (*zimrâh*) of Canaan, signifying Jacob's earnest desire to present a generous and respectful offering. They were not merely food but high-value commodities, some with medicinal or aromatic properties, indicating their worth as a significant tribute. Their selection also showcased the unique produce of Canaan, distinguishing them from Egyptian goods.

**Did Jacob trust God in this difficult situation, or was he acting purely out of fear?**

Answer: Jacob's words, "If it must be so now," clearly indicate his deep reluctance and fear for Benjamin's safety, especially after the presumed loss of Joseph. However, his actions—making careful preparations, sending valuable gifts, and ultimately allowing Benjamin to go—demonstrate a blend of human responsibility and a reluctant submission to circumstances that God was orchestrating. While his faith was undoubtedly tested and he expressed great anxiety, his compliance ultimately aligned with God's providential plan to preserve his family through Joseph, illustrating that God can work through our fears and practical steps to achieve His purposes, as [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good") suggests.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 43:11, though focused on Jacob's human wisdom and anxiety, subtly points to Christ through the broader narrative of Joseph. Joseph, rejected by his brothers and sold into slavery, rises to power in Egypt and becomes the deliverer of his family and many nations from famine, much as Christ, rejected by humanity ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "Isaiah 53:3 - Despised and Rejected")), becomes the ultimate Savior and provider of spiritual sustenance ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "John 6:35 - Jesus, the Bread of Life")). The gifts brought by Jacob's sons to Joseph, intended to gain favor and secure their lives, can be seen as a foreshadowing of the homage and gifts brought to Christ, particularly by the Magi, acknowledging His kingship and divine nature ([Matthew 2:11](/matthew/2-11 "Matthew 2:11 - The Magi Worship Jesus")). Ultimately, this passage illustrates God's sovereign plan unfolding through human circumstances, preserving His covenant people through an unexpected and seemingly harsh means, much like God's ultimate provision for humanity's salvation came through the unexpected and sacrificial life of Jesus Christ, who became the true "balm" for our souls ([Jeremiah 8:22](/jeremiah/8-22 "Jeremiah 8:22 - Is There No Balm in Gilead?")) and the "sweet aroma" of an offering to God ([Ephesians 5:2](/ephesians/5-2 "Ephesians 5:2 - Christ's Sacrificial Love")).

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 37:25

And they sat down to eat bread: and they lifted up their eyes and looked, and, behold, a company of Ishmeelites came from Gilead with their camels bearing spicery and balm and myrrh, going to carry [it] down to Egypt.

Jeremiah 8:22

[Is there] no balm in Gilead; [is there] no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?

1 Samuel 9:7

Then said Saul to his servant, But, behold, [if] we go, what shall we bring the man? for the bread is spent in our vessels, and [there is] not a present to bring to the man of God: what have we?

Ezekiel 27:17

Judah, and the land of Israel, they [were] thy merchants: they traded in thy market wheat of Minnith, and Pannag, and honey, and oil, and balm.

Proverbs 18:16

¶ A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men.

Ezekiel 27:15

The men of Dedan [were] thy merchants; many isles [were] the merchandise of thine hand: they brought thee [for] a present horns of ivory and ebony.

Deuteronomy 33:14

And for the precious fruits [brought forth] by the sun, and for the precious things put forth by the moon,