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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 45:16–24. His three-level outline is real structure in the source text, so it is rendered as structure.
Here is, 1. The kindness of Pharaoh to Joseph, and to his relations for his sake: he bade his brethren welcome (Gen 45:16), though it was a time of scarcity, and they were likely to be a charge to him. Nay, because it pleased Pharaoh, it pleased his servants too, at least they pretended to be pleased because Pharaoh was. He engaged Joseph to send for his father down to Egypt, and promised to furnish them with all conveniences both for his removal thither and his settlement there. If the good of all the land of Egypt (as it was not better stocked than any other land, thanks to Joseph, under God) would suffice him, he was welcome to it all, it was all his own, even the fat of the land (Gen 45:18), so that they need not regard their stuff, Gen 45:20. What they had in Canaan he reckoned but stuff, in comparison with what he had for them in Egypt; and therefore if they should be constrained to leave some of that behind them, let them not be discontented; Egypt would afford them enough to make up the losses of their removal. Thus those for whom Christ intends shares in his heavenly glory ought not to regard the stuff of this world: The best of its enjoyments are but stuff, but lumber; we cannot make sure of it while we are here, much less can we carry it away with us; let us not therefore be solicitous about it, nor set our eyes or hearts upon it. There are better things reserved for us in that blessed land whither our Joseph has gone to prepare a place.
II.The kindness of Joseph to his father and brethren.
Pharaoh was respectful to Joseph, in gratitude, because he had been an instrument of much good to him and his kingdom, not only preserving it from the common calamity, but helping to make it considerable among the nations; for all their neighbours would say, "Surely the Egyptians are a wise and an understanding people, that are so well stocked in a time of scarcity." For this reason Pharaoh never thought any thing too much that he could do for Joseph. Note, There is a gratitude owing even to inferiors; and when any have shown us kindness we should study to requite it, not only to them, but to their relations. And Joseph likewise was respectful to his father and brethren in duty, because they were his near relations, though his brethren had been his enemies, and his father long a stranger.
1.He furnished them for necessity, Gen 45:21. He gave them wagons and provisions for the way, both going and coming; for we never find that Jacob was very rich, and, at this time, when the famine prevailed, we may suppose he was rather poor.
2.He furnished them for ornament and delight. To his brethren he gave two suits a piece of good clothes, to Benjamin five suits, and money besides in his pocket, Gen 45:22. To his father he sent a very handsome present of the varieties of Egypt, Gen 45:23. Note, Those that are wealthy should be generous, and devise liberal things; what is an abundance good for, but to do good with it?
3.He dismissed them with a seasonable caution: See that you fall not out by the way, Gen 45:24. He knew they were but too apt to be quarrelsome; and what had lately passed, which revived the remembrance of what they had done formerly against their brother, might give them occasion to quarrel. Joseph had observed them to contend about it, Gen 42:22. To one they would say, "It was you that first upbraided him with his dreams;" to another, "It was you that stripped him of his fine coat;" to another, "It was you that threw him into the pit," etc. Now Joseph, having forgiven them all, lays this obligation upon them, not to upbraid one another. This charge our Lord Jesus has given to us, that we love one another, that we live in peace, that whatever occurs, or whatever former occurrences are remembered, we fall not out. For,
(1.)We are brethren, we have all one Father.
(2.)We are his brethren, and we shame our relation to him who is our peace, if we fall out.
(3.)We are guilty, verily guilty, and, instead of quarrelling with one another, have a great deal of reason to fall out with ourselves.
(4.)We are, or hope to be, forgiven of God whom we have all offended, and therefore should be ready to forgive one another.
(5.)We are by the way, a way that lies through the land of Egypt, where we have many eyes upon us, that seek occasion and advantage against us, a way that leads to Canaan, where we hope to be for ever in perfect peace.
Historical interpretation
Historical Reception
2 surviving comments on this verse. Each one is dated, so this reads as a timeline rather than a list.
To each of the brothers two garments are given. And it is Paul who is dispatched when his words are published. To him Christ gives three hundred pieces of gold and five garments of various colors. A man who preaches the cross of Christ already has three hundred pieces of gold, and so he says, "For I determined not to know anything among you, except Jesus Christ and him crucified." And it is appropriate that he receives the gold pieces, because he preached not in the persuasive words of wisdom but in the demonstration of the Spirit. Moreover, Paul receives five robes, either as the manifold teachings of wisdom or because he was not seduced by any enticements of the bodily passions. Where there was danger for others, he maintained the victory. He overcame all the pleasures of the flesh by a signal self-control and exercise of virtue; no bodily infirmity blunted his character or his zeal. When Paul was in the body, he did not know that he had a body. Indeed, when he was caught up into paradise, whether in the body or out of the body he did not know, he heard secret words that a man may not repeat. At the last, Paul had no earthly fragrance at all on earth, as he teaches when he says, "For we are the fragrance of Christ for God as regards those who are saved."
They each receive two garments. What are these garments? You should have no hesitancy about identifying them, because you have read what was said of Wisdom, "She made for her husband double garments." One is mystical, the other moral. But not all the apostles or prophets or pastors or powers have the grace of healing, nor do all speak in tongues. Where there are diverse rewards, there are diverse merits.
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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. Joseph's instructions for his family to relocate to Egypt and his subsequent provision of wagons and supplies (mentioned in Genesis 45:21) 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. 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.
Exposition and Analysis
Key Word Analysis
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.
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.
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 (Genesis 37:28).
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).
"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.
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.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why were "changes of raiment" such significant gifts?
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?
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). 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?
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. 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, 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, and the immeasurable riches of grace and blessing found in Him (Ephesians 1:7-8). Through His sacrifice, Christ bestows upon us a new identity and status, reconciling us to God (2 Corinthians 5:18-19) and transforming our past into a future filled with His provision and glory, far exceeding any earthly gift. He makes us a new creation, clothing us in His own perfect righteousness.