Genesis 43:32

And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians, which did eat with him, by themselves: because the Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that [is] an abomination unto the Egyptians.

And they set on {H7760} for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians {H4713}, which did eat {H398} with him, by themselves: because the Egyptians {H4713} might {H3201} not eat {H398} bread {H3899} with the Hebrews {H5680}; for that is an abomination {H8441} unto the Egyptians {H4714}.

They served him by himself, the brothers by themselves, and the Egyptians included at the meal by themselves - Egyptians don't eat with Hebrews, because that is abhorrent to them.

They separately served Joseph, his brothers, and the Egyptians. They ate separately because the Egyptians would not eat with the Hebrews, since that was detestable to them.

And they set on for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians, that did eat with him, by themselves: because the Egyptians might not eat bread with the Hebrews; for that is an abomination unto the Egyptians.

Commentary

Context

This verse describes the seating arrangement at a meal hosted by Joseph (who is now the powerful governor of Egypt) for his brothers and the Egyptians present. It highlights the strict social and religious customs of ancient Egypt, particularly their aversion to eating with foreigners, especially Hebrews. This scene follows Joseph's brothers' second journey to Egypt, bringing Benjamin, as commanded by Joseph. The separation at the table underscores the deep cultural chasm between the Egyptians and the Hebrews, even as Joseph secretly orchestrates their reunion and tests his brothers.

Key Themes

  • Cultural Distinction and Purity: The primary theme is the deep-seated cultural and religious distinctions that governed ancient Egyptian society. Eating together was a sign of fellowship and intimacy, and the Egyptians' refusal to share a table with Hebrews stemmed from their own concepts of ritual purity and social hierarchy. They likely viewed the Hebrews, particularly as shepherds (see Genesis 46:34), as ritually unclean or socially inferior. This highlights a significant social barrier.
  • Joseph's Unique Position: Joseph, despite being Hebrew, ate separately from his brothers because he had fully integrated into Egyptian society and held a high office, adhering to their customs. His separate seating from both his brothers and the other Egyptians present subtly reinforces his unique, isolated position as a bridge between two worlds, yet bound by Egyptian protocol.
  • Foreshadowing Separation: This scene subtly foreshadows the eventual separation of the Israelites in Egypt, culminating in their enslavement and later exodus, where God would further establish their distinct identity as a chosen people.

Linguistic Insights

The word translated "abomination" (Hebrew: to'evah - ΧͺΦΌΧ•ΦΉΧ’Φ΅Χ‘ΦΈΧ”) signifies something detestable, abhorrent, or repugnant. While the Bible frequently uses this term for practices detestable to God (e.g., idolatry, certain sexual sins), here it describes something detestable from the Egyptian perspective. This indicates a strong cultural and religious taboo, not merely a preference. It reflects a deep-seated revulsion based on their belief system concerning what was clean or unclean, pure or impure, particularly regarding the handling of animals and the social status of various professions.

Practical Application

This verse offers several insights for today:

  • Understanding Cultural Differences: It reminds us that societies often have deeply ingrained customs and beliefs that can lead to significant social barriers. What is acceptable or normal in one culture may be considered offensive or "abominable" in another. This highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and understanding when interacting with people from different backgrounds.
  • The Nature of Distinction: While the Egyptians' "abomination" was based on their own cultural and religious prejudices, the Bible later establishes God's chosen people as distinct, setting them apart for a holy purpose (Deuteronomy 7:6). This distinction, however, is rooted in God's call to holiness and truth, not necessarily in social superiority or prejudice against others.
  • Navigating Different Worlds: Joseph's ability to navigate between his Hebrew identity and his Egyptian role, while respecting cultural norms, provides an example of how individuals might adapt without compromising their core identity, though in this case, his adaptation involved adherence to Egyptian customs for practical reasons related to his high office.
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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated β€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Exodus 8:26

    And Moses said, It is not meet so to do; for we shall sacrifice the abomination of the Egyptians to the LORD our God: lo, shall we sacrifice the abomination of the Egyptians before their eyes, and will they not stone us?

  • Genesis 46:34

    That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, [and] also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd [is] an abomination unto the Egyptians.

  • Genesis 43:16

    And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the ruler of his house, Bring [these] men home, and slay, and make ready; for [these] men shall dine with me at noon.

  • Genesis 31:54

    Then Jacob offered sacrifice upon the mount, and called his brethren to eat bread: and they did eat bread, and tarried all night in the mount.
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