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Commentary on Genesis 43 verses 11–14
11 ¶ 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:
12 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:
13 Take also your brother, and arise, go again unto the man:
14 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.
Observe here, I. Jacob's persuasibleness. He would be ruled by reason, though they were his inferiors that urged it. He saw the necessity of the case; and, since there was no remedy, he consented to yield to the necessity (Gen 43:11): "If it must be so now, take your brother. If no corn can be had but upon those terms, we may as well expose him to the perils of the journey as suffer ourselves and families, and Benjamin amongst the rest, to perish for want of bread." Skin for skin, and all that a man has, even a Benjamin, the dearest of all, will he give for his life. No death so dreadful as that by famine, Lam 4:9. Jacob had said (Gen 42:38), My son shall not go down; but now he is over-persuaded to consent. Note, It is no fault, but our wisdom and duty, to alter our purposes and resolutions when there is a good reason for our so doing. Constancy is a virtue, but obstinacy is not. It is God's prerogative not to repent, and to make unchangeable resolves.
II. Jacob's prudence and justice, which appeared in three things: - 1. He sent back the money which they had found in the sacks' mouths, with this discreet construction of it, Peradventure it was an oversight. Note, Honesty obliges us to make restitution, not only of that which comes to us by our own fault, but of that which comes to us by the mistakes of others. Though we get it by oversight, if we keep it when the oversight is discovered, it is kept by deceit. In the stating of accounts, errors must be excepted, even those that make for us as well as those that make against us. Jacob's words furnish us with a favourable construction to put upon that which we are tempted to resent as an injury and affront; pass it by, and say, Peradventure it was an oversight. 2. He sent double money, as much again as they took the time before, upon supposition that the price of corn might have risen, - or to show a generous spirit, that they might be the more likely to find generous treatment with the man, the lord of the land. 3. He sent a present of such things as the land afforded, and as were scarce in Egypt - balm and honey, etc. (Gen 43:11), the commodities that Canaan exported, Gen 37:25. Note, (1.) Providence dispenses its gifts variously. Some countries produce one commodity, others another, that commerce may be preserved. (2.) Honey and spice will never make up the want of bread-corn. The famine was sore in Canaan, and yet they had balm and myrrh, etc. We may live well enough upon plain food without dainties; but we cannot live upon dainties without plain food. Let us thank God that that which is most needful and useful is generally most cheap and common. (3.) A gift in secret pacifies wrath, Pro 21:14. Jacob's sons were unjustly accused as spies, yet Jacob was willing to be at the expense of a present, to pacify the accuser. Sometimes we must not think it too much to buy peace even where we may justly demand it, and insist upon it as our right.
III. Jacob's piety appearing in his prayer: God Almighty give you mercy before the man! Gen 43:14. Jacob had formerly turned an angry brother into a kind one with a present and a prayer; and here he betakes himself to the same tried method, and it sped well. Note, Those that would find mercy with men must seek it of God, who has all hearts in his hands, and turns them as he pleases.
IV. Jacob's patience. He concludes all with this: "If I be bereaved of my children, I am bereaved; If I must part with them thus one after another, I must acquiesce, and say, The will of the Lord be done." Note, It is our wisdom to reconcile ourselves to the sorest afflictions, and make the best of them; for there is nothing got by striving with our Maker, Sa2 15:25, Sa2 15:26.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 11–14. Public domain.
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Ephrem the SyrianAD 373
COMMENTARY ON GENESIS 37:3
Then Jacob was constrained by the famine, whether he was willing or not, to send Benjamin with them. So he gave them supplies and sent them off with blessings and said, “Just as I was bereaved of Rachel, so am I now bereaved of Rachel’s children.” Judah comforted his father and said, “If I do not bring back Benjamin and set him before you, then let me bear the blame forever.” Then they took some of the choice fruits of the land: gum, pistachio nuts, which are berries, and so forth. They then went down and stood before Joseph. Joseph commanded his steward to give them lodging in his house.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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SUMMARY
Genesis 43:13 captures Jacob's profound and agonizing decision to send his youngest and most beloved son, Benjamin, to Egypt. This pivotal moment reflects the patriarch's reluctant surrender to the overwhelming pressure of a severe famine and his ultimate, albeit fearful, trust in God's sovereign plan, thereby setting the stage for the dramatic and long-awaited reconciliation of his family.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is the climactic point of Jacob's resistance to sending Benjamin, following a series of escalating events. The narrative begins with the severe famine forcing Jacob's family to seek grain in Egypt (Genesis 42:1-3). Joseph, now the powerful governor, tests his brothers by demanding they bring Benjamin to him, holding Simeon as collateral (Genesis 42:15-20). Upon their return, Jacob vehemently refuses to part with Benjamin, lamenting his perceived losses of Joseph and now potentially Benjamin (Genesis 42:36-38). However, as the famine intensifies and their provisions dwindle, Judah steps forward with a courageous and self-sacrificial pledge to guarantee Benjamin's safety, offering himself as surety (Genesis 43:8-10). Jacob's words in Genesis 43:13 thus represent his final, painful capitulation, a necessary step for the family's survival and the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, leading directly to the brothers' second journey to Egypt and the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity in Genesis 45.
Historical & Cultural Context: The ancient Near East was highly susceptible to famines, often caused by drought or disruptions in agricultural cycles, making the storage of grain, as Joseph had orchestrated, a matter of life and death. Egypt, with its reliance on the Nile River's annual inundation, was often a breadbasket for the region, even during widespread droughts. The cultural context emphasizes the patriarchal authority of Jacob and the profound emotional bond with his youngest son, Benjamin, born of his beloved wife Rachel, who had died giving birth to him (Genesis 35:16-18). The concept of a surety, where one person's life or freedom is pledged for another, was a recognized legal and social practice, highlighting the gravity of Judah's commitment. Furthermore, the practice of brothers traveling to a foreign land for provisions, as seen in this narrative, was a common occurrence in times of scarcity, underscoring the desperate circumstances faced by Jacob's family.
Key Themes: Genesis 43:13 powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the book of Genesis. The theme of Divine Sovereignty and Providence is paramount, as God meticulously orchestrates seemingly disparate events—famine, Joseph's imprisonment and rise to power, and the family's journeys—to fulfill His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Genesis 12:1-3). The narrative also highlights the theme of Testing and Transformation, particularly for Joseph's brothers, who are forced to confront their past sins and demonstrate genuine change and care for Benjamin, unlike their betrayal of Joseph (Genesis 37:18-28). Jacob's struggle embodies the theme of Faith in Adversity, showing how even a patriarch can wrestle with fear and doubt, yet ultimately surrender to God's unseen hand when faced with impossible choices. Finally, this verse is a crucial step towards Family Reconciliation and Restoration, setting the stage for the dramatic reunion of Joseph with his brothers and father, and the preservation of the nascent nation of Israel, as seen in Genesis 45:1-15.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Take (Hebrew, lâqach', H3947): This primitive root signifies a broad range of actions, including to "take," "receive," "fetch," or "get." In this context, it is an imperative verb, "Take!" (קְחוּ, qĕḥû), conveying a direct, urgent command from Jacob. It underscores the finality and necessity of his decision, indicating that Benjamin's inclusion is not optional but a non-negotiable requirement for their survival and the release of Simeon. The word here carries the weight of a difficult, yet unavoidable, action.
Brother (Hebrew, ʼâch', H251): This term, derived from a primitive word, refers to a "brother" in the widest sense, encompassing literal relationship and metaphorical affinity. Here, it specifically denotes Benjamin, Jacob's youngest son and full brother to Joseph. The inclusion of "your brother" (אָחִיכֶם, ʼaḥîḵem) emphasizes Benjamin's identity and the unique, cherished position he holds in Jacob's heart, making the command to "take" him particularly poignant and agonizing for the patriarch.
Man (Hebrew, ʼîysh', H376): This word refers to an "individual" or "male person." In this verse, "the man" (הָאִישׁ, hāʼîsh) refers to the powerful Egyptian governor, Joseph, whose true identity remains hidden from Jacob and his sons. This term adds a layer of dramatic irony, as Jacob is unknowingly sending his beloved Benjamin to the very son he believed lost, the one who holds the key to their family's destiny. The use of "the man" emphasizes Joseph's authority and the awe or fear he inspires in the brothers.
Verse Breakdown
"Take also your brother": This clause represents Jacob's ultimate, painful concession. After prolonged resistance and emotional turmoil, he finally yields to the dire necessity of the famine and Judah's solemn pledge. The imperative "Take!" signifies a command given with heavy heart but firm resolve, indicating that Benjamin's presence is non-negotiable for their return to Egypt and the hoped-for salvation of their family. It highlights the profound sacrifice Jacob is making, risking his most beloved son for the survival of the rest.
"and arise": This is a common Hebrew idiom, often functioning as an intensifier or an immediate call to action. Here, it conveys urgency and the immediate necessity of their departure. It suggests a call to overcome inertia and fear, to physically prepare and embark on the perilous journey without delay. It is a command to overcome the emotional paralysis that had gripped Jacob and to move forward into the unknown.
"go again unto the man": This final phrase directs their destination and purpose. "Go again" emphasizes the repetition of their difficult journey to Egypt, laden with the anxiety of their previous encounter and the added burden of Benjamin's presence. "Unto the man" refers to Joseph, the powerful Egyptian governor, whose identity remains a mystery to them. This phrase underscores the dramatic irony of the situation, as they are being commanded to return to the very brother they had wronged, who now holds their fate in his hands. It signifies their complete dependence on his will and mercy.
Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful literary devices. Dramatic Irony is central, as Jacob and his sons are entirely unaware that "the man" to whom they must return is Joseph, the very brother they betrayed years ago. This creates a tension between the characters' limited knowledge and the audience's full understanding of the divine orchestration, heightening the emotional impact of Jacob's agonizing decision. The repeated phrase "go again" could be seen as a form of Repetition, emphasizing the weariness and the unavoidable nature of their return journey, underscoring the relentless pressure of the famine. Furthermore, Jacob's command, born of desperation, serves as a form of Foreshadowing, as this painful step is precisely what will lead to the long-awaited family reunion and the preservation of God's chosen people, though Jacob cannot yet perceive this outcome.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 43:13 stands as a profound testament to God's meticulous providence, working through human fear, sacrifice, and difficult circumstances to bring about His purposes. Jacob's agonizing decision, though born of desperation and a deep-seated fear of loss, ultimately becomes an act of reluctant surrender to a divine plan he cannot yet comprehend. This moment highlights that God often uses our greatest trials and the very things we fear losing most to advance His redemptive agenda, demonstrating His sovereignty over all human affairs, even famine and family strife. It underscores the principle that sometimes, the path to blessing and fulfillment requires a painful release of control and a step of faith into the unknown.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 43:13 offers a poignant mirror for our own lives, particularly when we find ourselves at a crossroads, forced to make decisions that demand immense personal sacrifice or the letting go of what we hold most dear. Jacob's struggle reminds us that faith is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act despite it, trusting that God's overarching plan is at work, even when circumstances seem bleak or contradictory to our desires. It challenges us to consider what "Benjamin" we might be clinging to—a possession, a comfort, a perceived security—that God might be asking us to release for a greater, redemptive purpose. This verse encourages us to embrace a posture of surrender, recognizing that our limited perspective often obscures the divine tapestry being woven. In times of crisis, it calls us to persevere, to adapt, and to place our trust in the unseen hand of God, believing that He can bring good out of even the most difficult and painful choices, ultimately leading us to unexpected blessings and reconciliations.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Benjamin's presence so critical for Joseph?
Answer: Joseph's demand for Benjamin was not born of malice but was a crucial element in his elaborate test of his brothers. He needed to ascertain if they had genuinely changed and if their hearts had softened, particularly regarding their care for their youngest brother, unlike their past betrayal of him (Genesis 37:18-28). Bringing Benjamin to Egypt was the final, non-negotiable condition to confirm their honesty and transformation. It was also a strategic move to bring his entire family, including his full brother Benjamin and his aging father Jacob, to Egypt, where he could reveal his identity and provide for them during the remaining years of the severe famine, thus preserving the lineage through which God's covenant promises would be fulfilled (Genesis 45:7-8).
What does Jacob's decision in this verse reveal about his faith?
Answer: Jacob's decision in Genesis 43:13 reveals a complex and deeply human struggle between profound fear and desperate, albeit reluctant, faith. Initially, Jacob vehemently refused to send Benjamin, fearing he would lose him as he believed he had lost Joseph (Genesis 42:36). However, the escalating famine and Judah's courageous, self-sacrificial pledge (Genesis 43:9) compelled him to act. His agreement, though heavy-hearted and filled with lament (Genesis 43:14), demonstrates a surrender to circumstances that he recognized were beyond his control. This act, despite his overwhelming anxiety, implicitly trusts that the God who had guided him throughout his tumultuous life (Genesis 32:9-10) would somehow preserve Benjamin and his family. It is a testament to a faith that perseveres and acts even in the face of immense risk and uncertainty.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Genesis 43:13 profoundly prefigures the person and work of Jesus Christ, revealing God the Father's ultimate act of love and salvation. Jacob's agonizing decision to send his beloved son, Benjamin, into a perilous situation for the salvation and preservation of his family, mirrors the Father's immeasurable sacrifice in sending His only beloved Son, Jesus Christ, into a fallen and hostile world to secure the eternal salvation of humanity (John 3:16). Just as Joseph, the powerful "man" to whom they must return, held the key to the family's physical survival and reconciliation, so Christ is the ultimate "Man," the Lamb of God, to whom all must come for spiritual life, sustenance, and reconciliation with a holy God (John 1:29). The journey to Egypt, fraught with fear and uncertainty but ultimately leading to reunion, provision, and the preservation of God's chosen people, serves as a powerful type of the believer's journey of faith. This journey, initiated by God's sovereign plan, requires surrender, trust, and a willingness to face the unknown, ultimately leading to the glorious and redemptive fulfillment found only in Christ, who has overcome the world and secured our eternal inheritance (John 16:33; Hebrews 9:15).