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Public-domain commentary
Matthew Henry
From his Commentary on the Whole Bible. Henry comments on passages, not single verses — this entry covers Genesis 43:15–25.
Jacob's sons, having got leave to take Benjamin with them, were observant of the orders their father had given them, and went down the second time into Egypt to buy corn. If we should ever know what a famine of the word means, let us not think it much to travel as far for spiritual food as they did for corporal food. Now here we have an account of what passed between them and Joseph's steward, who, some conjecture, was in the secret, and knew them to be Joseph's brethren, and helped to humour the thing; I rather think not, because no man was permitted to be present when Joseph afterwards made himself known to them, Gen 45:1. Observe, 1. Joseph's steward has orders from his master (who was busy selling corn, and receiving money) to take them to his house, and make ready for their entertainment. Though Joseph saw Benjamin there, he would not leave his work at working-time, nor trust another with it. Note, Business must take place of civility in its season. Our needful employments must not be neglected, no, not to pay respect to our friends. 2. Even this frightened them: They were afraid, because they were brought into Joseph's house, Gen 43:18. The just challenges of their own consciences, and Joseph's violent suspicions of them, forbade them to expect any favour, and suggested to them that this was done with a bad design upon them. Note, Those that are guilty and timorous are apt to make the worst of every thing. Now they thought they should be reckoned with about the money in the sacks' mouths, and should be charged as cheats, and men not fit to be dealt with, who had taken advantage of the hurry of the market to carry off their corn unpaid for. They therefore laid the case before the steward, that he, being apprized of it, might stand between them and danger; and, as a substantial proof of their honesty, before they were charged with taking back their money they produced it. Note, Integrity and uprightness will preserve us, and will clear themselves as the light of the morning. 3. The steward encouraged them (Gen 43:23): Peace be to you, fear not; though he knew not what his master drove at, yet he was aware these were men whom he meant no harm to, while he thus amused them; and therefore he directs them to look at the divine Providence in the return of their money: Your God, and the God of your father, has given you treasure in your sacks. Observe, (1.) Hereby he shows that he had no suspicion at all of dishonesty in them: for of what we get by deceit we cannot say, "God gives it to us." (2.) Hereby he silences their further enquiry about it. "Ask not how it came thither; Providence brought it to you, and let that satisfy you." (3.) It appears by what he said that, by his good master's instructions, he was brought to the knowledge of the true God, the God of the Hebrews. It may justly be expected that those who are servants in religious families should take all fit occasions to speak of God and his providence with reverence and seriousness. (4.) He directs them to look up to God, and acknowledge his providence in the good bargain they had. We must own ourselves indebted to God, as our God and the God of our fathers (a God in covenant with us and them) for all our successes and advantages, and the kindnesses of our friends; for every creature is that to us, and no more, which God makes it to be. The steward encouraged them, not only in words but in deeds; for he made very much of them till his master came, Gen 43:24.
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Summary
Genesis 43:15 vividly portrays the sons of Israel's obedient preparations for their second journey to Egypt, carrying the prescribed gifts, double the money, and most significantly, their cherished youngest brother, Benjamin. This pivotal moment marks their departure, setting the stage for their dramatic reunion with Joseph and the unfolding of God's intricate plan for their family's preservation and reconciliation.
Context
Literary Context
Genesis 43:15 is situated at a critical juncture in the Joseph narrative, immediately following Jacob's agonizing decision to allow Benjamin to accompany his brothers to Egypt. In the preceding chapter, Joseph, acting as Egypt's governor, had orchestrated a test for his brothers, demanding they bring their youngest brother to prove their honesty, holding Simeon as surety (Genesis 42:19-20). Jacob's initial refusal, rooted in the presumed loss of Joseph and his deep affection for Rachel's remaining son, gives way only under the duress of severe famine and Judah's solemn pledge to guarantee Benjamin's safety (Genesis 43:8-9). This verse, therefore, marks the fulfillment of Joseph's demand and Jacob's reluctant, yet ultimately obedient, instructions regarding the "present" and "double money" (Genesis 43:11-12). It transitions the narrative from the family's internal struggle and Jacob's grief to their decisive action and journey, setting the stage for the climactic reunion.
Historical & Cultural Context
The historical backdrop of Genesis 43:15 is a severe, widespread famine affecting both Canaan and Egypt, a crisis that forced Jacob's family to seek sustenance from a foreign power. Egypt, under Joseph's astute administration, was the only region with abundant grain, highlighting its economic and political dominance in the ancient Near East. The act of bringing a "present" (מִנְחָה, minchâh) to a powerful ruler was a common diplomatic and cultural practice, signifying respect, seeking favor, and often serving as a form of tribute or appeasement. It was customary for supplicants to approach a superior with gifts, particularly when seeking a favor or rectifying a past misunderstanding. The brothers' journey itself, a return trip, would have been fraught with anxiety, given their previous encounter and the unknown fate of Simeon. Their decision to return the "double money" also reflects a strong cultural emphasis on integrity and avoiding any appearance of wrongdoing, especially when dealing with a foreign authority who held immense power over their lives.
Key Themes
Genesis 43:15 significantly contributes to several overarching themes within the Joseph narrative and the book of Genesis. Foremost is the theme of Divine Providence, where God orchestrates seemingly random or adverse events—like the famine and Joseph's rise to power—to preserve His covenant people and fulfill His promises. The brothers' journey, though born of necessity, is a direct step in God's plan to bring the family to Egypt, where they would grow into a nation. This verse also advances the theme of Testing and Transformation, as Joseph continues to test his brothers' character, particularly their loyalty to Benjamin and their father, revealing their growth from their earlier callous betrayal. The theme of Reconciliation and Restoration is powerfully foreshadowed, as Benjamin's presence is the key to unlocking Joseph's true identity and healing the fractured family. Finally, the brothers' actions, particularly their return of the money, underscore the importance of Integrity and Responsibility, a moral lesson reinforced throughout the patriarchal narratives.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
A primitive root meaning "to take (in the widest variety of applications)." Here, it signifies a deliberate act of acquisition and preparation. The repeated use of "took" emphasizes the intentionality and thoroughness of the brothers' actions in gathering all the necessary items—the present, the money, and Benjamin—for their perilous journey. It's not a passive reception but an active undertaking.
Meaning "a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary); gift, oblation, (meat) offering, present, sacrifice." This word carries significant weight, denoting a gift given to a superior, often with an element of appeasement or seeking favor. In this context, it is a diplomatic offering from Jacob to the powerful Egyptian governor, underscoring the brothers' subservient position and their hope for a favorable outcome.
Meaning "son of (the) right hand." This name is highly symbolic. Benjamin is Jacob's youngest and most beloved son by Rachel, the only full brother to Joseph. His presence is the critical element Joseph demanded, and his safe passage is the ultimate test of the brothers' transformation and Jacob's trust. His very name, "son of the right hand," can imply favor, strength, or a position of honor, which will become dramatically ironic and significant in the unfolding events with Joseph.
Verse Breakdown
"And the men took that present"
This clause highlights the brothers' obedience to Jacob's specific instructions (Genesis 43:11). The "present" was a carefully selected collection of the best produce from Canaan, intended to curry favor with the powerful Egyptian governor, whom they still did not recognize as Joseph. This act underscores their humility and desperation in the face of the famine.
"and they took double money in their hand"
This detail emphasizes the brothers' commitment to integrity and their desire to rectify any perceived wrongdoing. The "double money" included both the original payment for grain, which they had mysteriously found returned in their sacks on their first trip, and an additional sum for a new purchase. By bringing both, they sought to avoid any accusation of theft or dishonesty, demonstrating a heightened sense of responsibility.
"and Benjamin"
This is the most crucial element of the verse. The inclusion of Benjamin signifies Jacob's agonizing, yet ultimately necessary, surrender to Joseph's demand. Benjamin's presence is the linchpin for the entire narrative's progression, serving as the ultimate test of the brothers' character and loyalty, and setting the stage for Joseph's long-awaited revelation and the family's reconciliation.
"and rose up, and went down to Egypt"
These phrases simply narrate the commencement of their journey. "Rose up" indicates preparation and departure, while "went down" accurately reflects the geographical descent from the elevated land of Canaan into the lower Nile Delta region of Egypt. It signifies their decisive action in fulfilling the difficult mandate.
"and stood before Joseph"
This final clause marks their arrival and formal appearance before the governor. To "stand before" a dignitary implies a formal audience, acknowledging his authority and position. This moment is imbued with profound dramatic irony, as the brothers unknowingly stand before the very brother they had betrayed years ago, fulfilling Joseph's prophetic dreams (Genesis 37:7-10).
Literary Devices
Genesis 43:15 is rich with Dramatic Irony, as the reader is fully aware of Joseph's identity, while the brothers remain oblivious. Their meticulous preparations—the gifts, the double money, and the painful surrender of Benjamin—are all undertaken to appease a powerful governor, not realizing they are fulfilling the very demands of their long-lost brother. This creates a palpable tension and anticipation for the inevitable revelation. The verse also employs Foreshadowing, particularly through the inclusion of Benjamin, whose presence is the catalyst for the climactic events of reconciliation and the ultimate preservation of Jacob's family. The journey itself, a "going down to Egypt," symbolically foreshadows the eventual descent of the entire Israelite family into Egypt, where they would reside for centuries before their exodus. Furthermore, Symbolism is present in the "present" (מִנְחָה, minchâh), which, beyond being a mere gift, carries connotations of tribute and even a "bloodless offering," hinting at the brothers' humble submission and the sacrificial nature of their journey, particularly in giving up Benjamin.
Theological and Thematic Connections
Genesis 43:15 powerfully illustrates the intricate interplay of divine sovereignty and human agency. While the brothers' actions are driven by the immediate crisis of famine and Joseph's demands, their journey is meticulously woven into God's larger tapestry of redemption, demonstrating His unwavering commitment to preserve His covenant people. Their diligent efforts to bring the "present" and "double money," coupled with Jacob's agonizing decision to release Benjamin, highlight the human responsibility to act with integrity and obedience, even when the path is fraught with uncertainty and personal cost. This moment is a crucial step towards the healing of deep family wounds, demonstrating that reconciliation often requires humility, costly sacrifice, and a willingness to confront painful truths. It underscores a profound theological truth: God uses human choices and difficult circumstances to advance His redemptive purposes, ultimately bringing about good for those who are called according to His plan.
Reflection and Application
Genesis 43:15 provides profound spiritual lessons for believers today. The brothers' journey, compelled by dire circumstances and Joseph's demands, mirrors our own calls to step out in faith, even when the path is unclear or requires significant personal sacrifice. Like Jacob, we are often asked to release what we hold most dear—our comfort, our control, or even our perceived security—and trust in God's sovereign hand, believing that He is working all things for our good and His glory. Their meticulous care in returning the "double money" serves as a timeless reminder of the paramount importance of integrity, honesty, and a blameless reputation in all our dealings, both personal and professional. This passage also encourages us to pursue reconciliation in fractured relationships, recognizing that healing often necessitates humility, courageous action, and a willingness to confront past hurts, trusting that God can bring restoration out of brokenness. Ultimately, it reinforces the comforting truth that even in our deepest anxieties and most challenging decisions, God remains faithfully at work, orchestrating circumstances to bring about His perfect will and to draw us closer to Him.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why did the brothers take "double money"?
The brothers took "double money" for two primary reasons, both reflecting their commitment to integrity and their precarious situation. First, it included the original payment for the grain from their previous trip, which they had mysteriously discovered returned in their sacks (Genesis 42:27-28). They did not understand why the money was returned and, out of a desire for honesty and to avoid any accusation of theft or deception, they brought it back. Second, it included additional funds for the new grain they intended to purchase. This act underscores their earnest efforts to maintain a blameless reputation before the powerful Egyptian governor, whom they desperately needed to appease for their family's survival.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
Genesis 43:15, with its poignant depiction of Benjamin's "surrender" and the brothers' journey towards their unknown deliverer, serves as a powerful foreshadowing of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Joseph, once rejected and presumed lost by his brothers, becomes their providential savior, a profound type of Christ who, though scorned by His own, ultimately brings salvation and sustenance to His people. Just as Benjamin, the beloved son of Jacob, had to be "given up" by his father, albeit reluctantly, for the salvation of the family from famine, so too was God the Father's beloved Son, Jesus Christ, "given up" to death, a willing sacrifice, for the salvation of humanity (John 3:16). The brothers' humbling journey to Egypt, culminating in their standing "before Joseph," prefigures humanity's necessary approach to Christ in humility and repentance for reconciliation with God (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). Through Christ's ultimate act of self-sacrifice on the cross, He became the greater "present" offered to God, providing eternal sustenance and bringing about the profound reconciliation of a broken humanity to a holy God, fulfilling the divine purpose of preservation and restoration that began to unfold in the Joseph narrative (Hebrews 9:14).