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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 43:26–34. His four-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, I. The great respect that Joseph's brethren paid to him. When they brought him the present, they bowed themselves before him (Gen 43:26); and again, when they gave him an account of their father's health, they made obeisance, and called him, Thy servant our father, Gen 43:28. Thus were Joseph's dreams fulfilled more and more: and even the father, by the sons, bowed before him, according to the dream, Gen 37:10. Probably Jacob had directed them, if they had occasion to speak of him to the man, the lord of the land, to call him his servant.
II.The great kindness that Joseph showed to them, while they little thought it was a brotherly kindness. Here is,
1.His kind enquiry concerning Jacob: Is he yet alive? - a very fit question to be asked concerning any, especially concerning old people; for we are dying daily: it is strange that we are yet alive. Jacob had said many years before, I will go to the grave to my son; but he is yet alive: we must not die when we will.
2.The kind notice he took of Benjamin, his own brother.
(1.)He put up a prayer for him: God be gracious unto thee, my son, Gen 43:29. Joseph's favour, though he was the lord of the land, would do him little good, unless God were gracious to him. Many seek the ruler's favour, but Joseph directs him to seek the favour of the ruler of rulers.
(2.)He shed some tears for him, Gen 43:30. His natural affection to his brother, his joy to see him, his concern at seeing him and the rest of them in distress for bread, and the remembrance of his own griefs since he last saw him, produced a great agitation in him, which perhaps was the more uneasy because he endeavoured to stifle and suppress it; but he was forced to retire into his closet, there to give vent to his feeling by tears. Note,
[1.]Tears of tenderness and affection are no disparagement at all, even to great and wise men.
[2.]Gracious weepers should not proclaim their tears. My soul shall weep in secret, says the prophet, Jer 13:17. Peter went out and wept bitterly. See Mat 26:75.
3.His kind entertainment of them all. When his weeping had subsided so that he could refrain himself, he sat down to dinner with them, treated them nobly, and yet contrived every thing to amuse them.
(1.)He ordered three tables to be spread, one for his brethren, another for the Egyptians that dined with him (for so different were their customs that they did not care to eat together), another for himself, who durst not own himself a Hebrew, and yet would not sit with the Egyptians. See here an instance,
[1.]Of hospitality and good house-keeping, which are very commendable, according as the ability is.
[2.]Of compliance with people's humours, even whimsical ones, as bishop Patrick calls this of the Egyptians not eating with the Hebrews. Though Joseph was the lord of the land, and orders were given that all people should obey him, yet he would not force the Egyptians to eat with the Hebrews, against their minds, but let them enjoy their humours. Spirits truly generous hate to impose.
[3.]Of the early distance between Jews and Gentiles; one table would not hold them.
(2.)He placed his brethren according to their seniority (Gen 43:33), as if he could certainly divine. Some think they placed themselves so, according to their custom; but, if so, I see not why such particular notice is taken of it, especially as a thing they marvelled at.
(3.)He gave them a very plentiful entertainment, sent messes to them from his own table, Gen 43:34. This was the more generous in him, and the more obliging to them, because of the present scarcity of provisions. In a day of famine, it is enough to be fed; but here they were feasted. Perhaps they had not had such a good dinner for many months. It is said, They drank and were merry; their cares and fears were now over, and they ate their bread with joy, concluding they were now upon good terms with the man, the lord of the land. If God accept our works, our present, we have reason to be cheerful. Yet when we sit, as they here did, to eat with a ruler, we should consider what is before us, and not indulge our appetite, nor be desirous of dainties, Pro 23:1-3. Joseph gave them to understand that Benjamin was his favourite; for his mess was five times as much as any of theirs, not as if he would have him eat so much more than the rest, for then he must eat more than would do him good (and it is no act of friendship, but rather an injury and unkindness, to press any either to eat or drink to excess), but thus he would testify his particular respect for him, that he might try whether his brethren would envy Benjamin his larger messes, as formerly they had envied himself his finer coat. And it must be our rule, in such cases, to be content with what we have, and not to grieve at what others have.
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Summary
This scene is rich with dramatic irony, as the brothers, still unaware of Joseph's true identity, unwittingly fulfill long-held prophecies through their deep deference to the powerful Egyptian governor, setting the stage for the climactic family reunion and reconciliation.
Context
Literary Context
This verse is situated within the latter half of the book of Genesis, specifically within the extended narrative of Joseph, which spans from Genesis 37 to Genesis 50. Preceding this verse, Joseph's brothers have made a second journey to Egypt due to the severe famine, compelled by Joseph's earlier demand to bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, with them (Genesis 42:20). Jacob's initial reluctance to part with Benjamin, his last remaining son from Rachel, underscores the high stakes of this journey (Genesis 42:38). Upon their arrival, Joseph, still unrecognized, invites them to dine with him (Genesis 43:16), and before the meal, he inquires about their father's well-being. This specific inquiry and the brothers' response in Genesis 43:28 serve as a crucial step in Joseph's carefully orchestrated plan to test his brothers and prepare them for the revelation of his identity and subsequent reconciliation.
Historical & Cultural Context
The setting is ancient Egypt during a period of widespread famine, likely in the second millennium BCE. Egyptian culture placed a high value on hierarchy and deference to authority. Governors and high officials, like Joseph, commanded immense respect and power. The act of "making obeisance" (prostrating oneself or bowing deeply) was a common cultural practice throughout the ancient Near East, signifying profound respect, submission, or homage, whether to royalty, a deity, or a superior. This cultural norm explains the brothers' immediate and complete physical submission to Joseph, whom they perceived as a powerful Egyptian official. Furthermore, the concept of family and the well-being of the patriarch (Jacob) were paramount in ancient Israelite culture, making Joseph's inquiry about his father's health a natural and deeply significant question, both personally and culturally.
Key Themes
Genesis 43:28 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the Joseph narrative and the book of Genesis. Divine Providence and Sovereignty are central, as God orchestrates events, even through human sin and suffering, to bring about His purposes, ultimately preserving the covenant family and fulfilling promises made to Abraham (Genesis 12:2-3). The Fulfillment of Prophecy is dramatically highlighted, as the brothers' repeated acts of bowing before Joseph directly fulfill the dreams Joseph had in his youth (Genesis 37:7-9). This scene also underscores themes of Reconciliation and Forgiveness, as Joseph's testing of his brothers' character, particularly their concern for Jacob and Benjamin, prepares the ground for the eventual healing of their fractured family relationships. Finally, the theme of Humility and Transformation is evident in the brothers' changed demeanor compared to their youthful arrogance and cruelty towards Joseph (Genesis 37:18-28).
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
From H7965 (שָׁלֹום), this word encompasses far more than mere physical well-being. While it certainly refers to Jacob's physical health, shâlôwm denotes a comprehensive state of completeness, soundness, welfare, prosperity, and peace. It suggests that Jacob is not merely alive but is in a state of holistic well-being, free from distress, which would have been a great relief to Joseph.
From H2416 (חַי), this word literally means "alive" or "living." In this context, it emphasizes the vital fact of Jacob's continued existence. For Joseph, who had not seen his father in over two decades and knew of Jacob's deep grief over his presumed death, the confirmation that Jacob was "yet alive" carried immense emotional weight and was a crucial piece of information for his ongoing plan.
From H7812 (שָׁחָה), this primitive root means "to depress," "prostrate," or "bow down," especially in homage to royalty or God. It describes a physical act of deep reverence, submission, or worship. In Genesis 43:28, it signifies the brothers' complete and utter submission to Joseph, the powerful Egyptian governor, an act pregnant with prophetic fulfillment.
Verse Breakdown
"And they answered, Thy servant our father [is] in good health, he [is] yet alive."
The brothers' response is respectful and direct, addressing Joseph with the formal "Thy servant" in reference to their father, Jacob. This phrase highlights their humble posture before the powerful Egyptian governor. The dual affirmation of Jacob's "good health" (shâlôwm) and his being "yet alive" (chay) provides Joseph with the crucial information he sought, confirming the well-being of his beloved patriarch and validating the brothers' compliance with his previous demands.
"And they bowed down their heads, and made obeisance."
Immediately following their verbal report, the brothers perform a profound physical act of deference. "Bowed down their heads" (from H6915, qâdad) describes a specific physical posture of lowering the head in respect or submission. This is immediately followed by "made obeisance" (from H7812, shâchâh), indicating a full prostration or deep bow, signifying complete submission and homage. This double action underscores the depth of their reverence and humility before Joseph, unwittingly fulfilling the prophetic dreams Joseph had received decades earlier.
Literary Devices
The passage employs several potent Literary Devices. The most prominent is Dramatic Irony, as the audience is aware of Joseph's true identity, while his brothers remain ignorant. Their profound respect and submission to him, culminating in their bowing down, is deeply ironic given their past actions of selling him into slavery. This irony heightens the tension and anticipation of Joseph's eventual revelation. Foreshadowing is also powerfully at play, as the brothers' act of obeisance directly fulfills Joseph's prophetic dreams from Genesis 37:7-9, demonstrating God's sovereign hand in bringing His purposes to pass. The repetition of the act of bowing throughout the Joseph narrative (e.g., Genesis 42:6) serves as Symbolism, representing the reversal of fortunes and the establishment of Joseph's divinely appointed authority over his family.
Theological and Thematic Connections
This verse powerfully illustrates God's meticulous and sovereign orchestration of events, even through human sin and suffering. The brothers' humble report and act of obeisance, born out of necessity and fear, are simultaneously a profound fulfillment of divine prophecy and a testament to God's patient work in preparing hearts for reconciliation. It underscores that God's plans are not thwarted by human rebellion but often incorporate them, transforming evil intentions into instruments for good, ultimately preserving His covenant people and bringing His promises to fruition.
Reflection and Application
Genesis 43:28 invites us to reflect on the profound ways God works in our lives, often behind the scenes and through circumstances we do not fully understand. The brothers' humility and submission, though initially driven by fear and necessity, ultimately paved the way for healing and restoration within their fractured family. This reminds us that true humility, even when difficult, can be a prerequisite for divine blessing and reconciliation in our own relationships. Furthermore, the fulfillment of Joseph's dreams, decades later, encourages us to trust in God's perfect timing and unwavering faithfulness to His promises, even when they seem long delayed or impossible. We are called to cultivate a posture of submission to God's will, recognizing that He is sovereignly working all things for our good and His glory, even when our path seems unclear.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Joseph so concerned about Jacob's health and welfare?
Joseph's deep concern for his father, Jacob, was multifaceted. Primarily, it stemmed from profound filial love and respect for the patriarch whom he had not seen in over two decades, and whom he knew had grieved deeply over his presumed death. Spiritually, Jacob was the current bearer of the Abrahamic covenant, and his well-being was crucial for the continuation of God's promises and the lineage of the chosen people. Strategically, Joseph's inquiry was also a key part of his elaborate test for his brothers. He needed to ascertain if their character had changed, if they now genuinely cared for their father and their youngest brother, Benjamin, in contrast to their past callousness towards Joseph himself (Genesis 37:18-28).
What is the significance of the brothers "making obeisance" to Joseph?
The act of "making obeisance" (Hebrew: shâchâh), which involves bowing down or prostrating oneself, signifies profound respect, submission, and homage. Its significance in Genesis 43:28 is deeply layered. On one level, it demonstrates the brothers' complete humility and deference before the powerful Egyptian governor, whom they perceive as having authority over their lives. More profoundly, it is a direct and dramatic fulfillment of the prophetic dreams Joseph had in his youth, where his brothers' sheaves and even the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowed down to him (Genesis 37:7, Genesis 37:9). This repeated act of homage underscores God's sovereignty in bringing His purposes to pass, even through human sin, long periods of separation, and seemingly insurmountable obstacles, reversing the power dynamics and fulfilling His divine word.
Christ-Centered Fulfillment
The narrative of Joseph, particularly the scene in Genesis 43:28, serves as a compelling type and shadow of Jesus Christ. Joseph, though innocent, was rejected, betrayed, and sold into slavery by his own brothers, mirroring Christ's rejection and crucifixion by His own people (Isaiah 53:3). Yet, God exalted Joseph to a position of immense power in Egypt, making him the savior and provider for his family and the surrounding nations during a severe famine. Similarly, Jesus Christ, after His rejection and crucifixion, was exalted by God to the highest place, given a name that is above every name (Philippians 2:9), becoming the ultimate Savior and Provider for all humanity, offering spiritual sustenance and eternal life to those who believe (John 6:35). The brothers' repeated acts of bowing before Joseph in humble submission powerfully foreshadow the day when "every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord" (Philippians 2:10-11), acknowledging His supreme authority and Lordship. This ultimate submission leads not to judgment for those who believe, but to reconciliation, redemption, and the preservation of God's chosen people, just as Joseph's exaltation led to the salvation of his family.