Genesis 45:22

KJV

To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred [pieces] of silver, and five changes of raiment.

KJV (with Strong's)

To all of them he gave {H5414} each man {H376} changes {H2487} of raiment {H8071}; but to Benjamin {H1144} he gave {H5414} three {H7969} hundred {H3967} pieces of silver {H3701}, and five {H2568} changes {H2487} of raiment {H8071}.

Complete Jewish Bible

To each of them he gave a set of new clothes; but to Binyamin he gave seven-and-a-half pounds of silver and five sets of new clothes.

Berean Standard Bible

He gave new garments to each of them, but to Benjamin he gave three hundred shekels of silver and five sets of clothes.

American Standard Version

To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 45:22 vividly portrays Joseph's profound generosity and complete reconciliation with his brothers after revealing his identity. As a tangible expression of his forgiveness and immense power as Egypt's prime minister, Joseph bestows upon each brother valuable changes of raiment. However, he singles out his full brother, Benjamin, for exceptional favor, presenting him with three hundred pieces of silver and five changes of raiment, underscoring Joseph's deep affection, the family's impending restoration, and their elevated status in Egypt.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated at the emotional climax of the Joseph narrative, immediately following his dramatic and tearful revelation of his identity to his astonished brothers in [Genesis 45:1-15](/genesis/45-1-15 "Joseph Reveals Himself and Reconciles with His Brothers"). Joseph's instructions for his family to relocate to Egypt and his subsequent provision of wagons and supplies (mentioned in [Genesis 45:21](/genesis/45-21 "Joseph's Provision for His Family")) set the stage for these personal gifts. The lavishness of the gifts, particularly to Benjamin, serves as a powerful demonstration of Joseph's complete forgiveness and desire for reconciliation, contrasting sharply with the brothers' past betrayal and the favoritism that had initially caused strife within the family. It marks a pivotal moment of transition from past suffering and separation to future unity and prosperity under Joseph's care.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the exchange of gifts was a crucial aspect of diplomacy, reconciliation, and the establishment of status. Fine garments were not merely practical clothing but significant indicators of wealth, honor, and social standing. To receive "changes of raiment" from a powerful figure like Joseph was a profound mark of favor and a public declaration of the recipient's elevated status. Silver, as a form of currency and stored wealth, represented substantial material provision and security. Joseph's gifts, therefore, were not just acts of personal generosity but also culturally understood symbols of honor, a new beginning, and the secure provision that awaited Jacob's family in Egypt, a land then experiencing severe famine.

* **Key Themes:** Genesis 45:22 contributes significantly to several overarching themes in the Joseph narrative and the book of Genesis. It highlights the theme of **divine providence**, demonstrating how God sovereignly orchestrated events, including Joseph's suffering and elevation, to preserve His covenant people during a severe famine, as Joseph himself articulates in [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Genesis 50:20 - God's Redemptive Purpose"). The verse also powerfully illustrates the theme of **radical forgiveness and reconciliation**, showcasing Joseph's willingness to move beyond past wrongs and restore broken relationships. Furthermore, the preferential treatment of Benjamin, while potentially a test of the brothers' transformed character, underscores the theme of **family restoration** and the establishment of a new, harmonious dynamic within Jacob's household, preparing them for their journey to [Egypt](/genesis/46 "Genesis 46 - Jacob's Family Goes to Egypt").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **changes (Hebrew, _chălîyphâh'_):** From H2487, meaning "alternation; change, course." In this context, it refers to multiple sets of garments, implying a wardrobe of various outfits rather than just one. These were valuable possessions, often fine clothing, used for different occasions or as a display of wealth and honor. The plural "changes" emphasizes the abundance and generosity of Joseph's gift.
* **raiment (Hebrew, _simlâh'_):** From H8071, referring to a "dress, especially a mantle; apparel, cloth(-es, -ing), garment." This term denotes outer garments, which were significant items of personal property in ancient cultures. The quality and quantity of such garments indicated a person's status and wealth.
* **silver (Hebrew, _keçeph'_):** From H3701, meaning "silver (from its pale color); by implication, money." This refers to a substantial sum of currency. In a time when coinage was not yet standardized, silver was weighed and served as a primary medium of exchange and a store of wealth. Three hundred pieces of silver was a considerable amount, far exceeding the price of a slave (cf. [Genesis 37:28](/genesis/37-28 "Joseph Sold to Ishmaelites")).
* **Benjamin (Hebrew, _Binyâmîyn'_):** From H1144, meaning "son of (the) right hand." Benjamin was Joseph's only full brother, both being sons of Rachel, Jacob's beloved wife. His name itself carries significance, often associated with strength or favor. The special favor shown to Benjamin highlights Joseph's deep personal affection for his full sibling and potentially serves as a test of the other brothers' character.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment;":** This clause establishes Joseph's general generosity towards all his brothers. The "changes of raiment" (multiple sets of valuable garments) signify not just practical provision but also honor and a new, elevated status. This act is a public declaration of reconciliation and a tangible expression of Joseph's forgiveness, moving beyond the past betrayal where they stripped him of his own special garment ([Genesis 37:23](/genesis/37-23 "Joseph's Coat Taken")).
* **"but to Benjamin he gave three hundred [pieces] of silver,":** This phrase introduces a distinct and significant exception to the general provision. Joseph's focus shifts to Benjamin, his younger, full brother, highlighting a deeper, more personal connection. The "three hundred pieces of silver" represents an exceptionally large sum, underscoring the extraordinary nature of this gift and Benjamin's unique position in Joseph's heart. This substantial financial gift would have ensured Benjamin's security and prosperity.
* **"and five changes of raiment.":** This final clause further emphasizes Benjamin's exceptional favor. While the other brothers received an unspecified number (likely one or two) of "changes of raiment," Benjamin received five. This quintuple portion of valuable garments, in addition to the large sum of silver, dramatically sets Benjamin apart, demonstrating Joseph's profound affection and perhaps serving as a final test of the other brothers' transformed hearts, contrasting with their past envy over Joseph's coat of many colors.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several powerful **Literary Devices**. **Contrast** is immediately evident in the differing gifts given to the brothers. While all receive "changes of raiment," Benjamin's portion of "three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment" stands in stark **Contrast** to the others, highlighting his unique position and Joseph's deep affection. This **Contrast** also serves as a subtle **Test** of the brothers' character, probing whether their past envy and jealousy, which led to Joseph's enslavement, had truly been overcome. Furthermore, the gifts themselves are rich in **Symbolism**. The "changes of raiment" symbolize a new identity, a new status, and a fresh start, moving from the rags of famine and past guilt to the garments of honor and reconciliation. The silver symbolizes not only wealth and provision but also the abundant grace and restoration Joseph extends. The entire scene is imbued with **Foreshadowing**, hinting at the future prosperity and security that awaits Jacob's family in Egypt under Joseph's benevolent care, a testament to God's overarching plan.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 45:22 is a profound illustration of God's redemptive work through human agency. Joseph's lavish generosity and complete forgiveness are not merely human virtues but reflect divine attributes, demonstrating how God can turn what was intended for evil into good, bringing about reconciliation and restoration. This act of grace mirrors God's own character, who, despite humanity's rebellion, offers abundant grace and provision for salvation. The gifts symbolize a new covenant relationship, where past offenses are covered, and a new identity and status are bestowed, ensuring the preservation of the covenant lineage.

* [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Genesis 50:20 - God's Redemptive Purpose"): "But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good, to bring to pass, as it is this day, to save much people alive."
* [Colossians 3:13](/colossians/3-13 "Colossians 3:13 - Bearing with One Another and Forgiving"): "Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye."
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "Romans 8:28 - God Works All Things for Good"): "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joseph's extraordinary act of forgiveness and tangible generosity in Genesis 45:22 offers enduring lessons for our own lives and relationships. It challenges us to move beyond mere verbal forgiveness to a deeper, more profound reconciliation that seeks to restore and bless those who have wronged us. Joseph did not just pardon his brothers; he honored them, provided for them, and secured their future. This narrative encourages us to embrace the transforming power of forgiveness, recognizing that true reconciliation often involves tangible expressions of goodwill and a willingness to extend favor, even when it feels undeserved. The special favor shown to Benjamin also highlights God's sovereign hand in our lives and His particular care for individuals within a family or community, reminding us that God's providence can turn even the most painful betrayals into opportunities for profound restoration and blessing. Like Joseph's family, we are called to trust in God's provision and embrace new beginnings, even when they require significant life changes, as they prepared for their momentous move to [Egypt](/genesis/46-5 "Genesis 46:5 - Jacob's Family Goes to Egypt").

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Joseph's act of tangible generosity challenge your understanding of forgiveness and reconciliation in your own relationships?**
* **In what ways can you tangibly express forgiveness or seek reconciliation with someone who has wronged you, or whom you have wronged?**
* **How does Joseph's trust in God's providence, even through his suffering and family betrayal, encourage you to trust God in your own difficult circumstances?**
* **Considering the "changes of raiment" as a symbol of new identity, what new "garments" or identity has God given you through His grace?**

### FAQ
**Why were "changes of raiment" such significant gifts?**

Answer: In the ancient Near East, "changes of raiment" (multiple sets of fine clothing) were highly valuable possessions, far more than mere utilitarian garments. They served as powerful symbols of wealth, honor, and social status. Receiving such a gift from a powerful figure like Joseph indicated a bestowal of significant favor, a recognition of importance, and often symbolized a new beginning or an elevated position for the recipient. It was a public affirmation of their restored relationship and honor.

**Why did Benjamin receive so much more than his brothers?**

Answer: Benjamin was Joseph's only full brother, both being sons of Rachel, Jacob's beloved wife, making him uniquely special to Joseph. This deep fraternal bond undoubtedly fueled Joseph's exceptional generosity towards him. Additionally, Joseph may have been subtly testing his other brothers to see if they would react with envy and jealousy, as they had done towards him in his youth when Jacob showed him favoritism with the "coat of many colors" ([Genesis 37:3-4](/genesis/37-3-4 "Jacob's Love for Joseph")). Their lack of envy in this instance demonstrated their changed hearts and genuine repentance.

**Does Joseph's act of giving gifts imply a transactional forgiveness?**

Answer: No, Joseph's forgiveness was freely given and preceded the gifts, as evidenced by his emotional revelation and weeping with his brothers in [Genesis 45:14-15](/genesis/45-14-15 "Joseph Weeps with Benjamin and Kisses His Brothers"). The gifts were not a condition for forgiveness but rather a tangible expression and confirmation of his complete reconciliation, overwhelming generosity, and sincere desire to restore his family. They symbolized the new, honorable status his brothers would have under his care in Egypt, demonstrating the depth of his grace and the completeness of his restoration.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph's story, particularly his act of lavish generosity and profound reconciliation in [Genesis 45:22](/genesis/45-22 "Genesis 45:22 - Joseph's Gifts to His Brothers"), powerfully prefigures the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Just as Joseph, betrayed and sold by his brothers, became a savior to his family and provided for their sustenance, so too was Jesus betrayed, crucified, and resurrected, becoming the ultimate Savior who provides eternal life and spiritual sustenance for all who believe. The "changes of raiment" and abundant silver given by Joseph symbolize the new spiritual garments of righteousness that believers receive through Christ, as described in [Philippians 3:9](/philippians/3-9 "Philippians 3:9 - Righteousness from God"), and the immeasurable riches of grace and blessing found in Him ([Ephesians 1:7-8](/ephesians/1-7-8 "Ephesians 1:7-8 - Riches of God's Grace")). Through His sacrifice, Christ bestows upon us a new identity and status, reconciling us to God ([2 Corinthians 5:18-19](/2_corinthians/5-18-19 "2 Corinthians 5:18-19 - Ministry of Reconciliation")) and transforming our past into a future filled with His provision and glory, far exceeding any earthly gift. He makes us a [new creation](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ"), clothing us in His own perfect righteousness.

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 43:34

And he took [and sent] messes unto them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.

2 Kings 5:5

And the king of Syria said, Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto the king of Israel. And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six thousand [pieces] of gold, and ten changes of raiment.

2 Kings 5:22

And he said, All [is] well. My master hath sent me, saying, Behold, even now there be come to me from mount Ephraim two young men of the sons of the prophets: give them, I pray thee, a talent of silver, and two changes of garments.

2 Kings 5:23

And Naaman said, Be content, take two talents. And he urged him, and bound two talents of silver in two bags, with two changes of garments, and laid [them] upon two of his servants; and they bare [them] before him.

Judges 14:12

And Samson said unto them, I will now put forth a riddle unto you: if ye can certainly declare it me within the seven days of the feast, and find [it] out, then I will give you thirty sheets and thirty change of garments:

Judges 14:19

And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he went down to Ashkelon, and slew thirty men of them, and took their spoil, and gave change of garments unto them which expounded the riddle. And his anger was kindled, and he went up to his father's house.

Revelation 6:11

And white robes were given unto every one of them; and it was said unto them, that they should rest yet for a little season, until their fellowservants also and their brethren, that should be killed as they [were], should be fulfilled.