Genesis 45:23

KJV

And to his father he sent after this [manner]; ten asses laden with the good things of Egypt, and ten she asses laden with corn and bread and meat for his father by the way.

KJV (with Strong's)

And to his father {H1} he sent {H7971} after this {H2063} manner; ten {H6235} asses {H860} laden {H5375} with the good things {H2898} of Egypt {H4714}, and ten {H6235} she asses {H2543} laden {H5375} with corn {H1250} and bread {H3899} and meat {H4202} for his father {H1} by the way {H1870}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Likewise, to his father he sent ten donkeys loaded with the finest goods Egypt produced, as well as ten female donkeys loaded with grain, bread and food for his father to eat on the return journey.

Berean Standard Bible

And he sent to his father the following: ten donkeys loaded with the best of Egypt, and ten female donkeys loaded with grain and bread and provisions for his father’s journey.

American Standard Version

And to his father he sent after this manner: ten asses laden with the good things of Egypt, and ten she-asses laden with grain and bread and provision for his father by the way.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 45:23 vividly portrays Joseph's profound generosity and elevated status as he dispatches a lavish caravan to his father, Jacob, in Canaan. This act of provision, consisting of ten male donkeys laden with Egypt's finest goods and ten female donkeys carrying abundant provisions of grain, bread, and meat, was designed to ensure Jacob's comfortable journey to Egypt. It served as a tangible demonstration of Joseph's enduring love, the complete reconciliation within the family, and the divine orchestration of events that preserved Jacob's household amidst a severe famine, setting the stage for the future nation of Israel.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Genesis 45:23 is situated at the emotional climax of the Joseph narrative, immediately following Joseph's dramatic and tearful revelation of his identity to his brothers. After years of separation, suffering, and a series of tests, Joseph finally declares, "[I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?](/genesis/45-3 "Joseph Reveals Himself")" (see [Genesis 45:3](/genesis/45-3 "Joseph Reveals Himself")). Overwhelmed with joy and recognizing God's sovereign hand in their lives, Joseph instructs his brothers to return to Canaan and bring their father, Jacob, and their entire households to Egypt, promising them settlement in the fertile land of Goshen. Pharaoh himself endorses this plan, generously offering the "good of all the land of Egypt" ([Genesis 45:18](/genesis/45-18 "Pharaoh's Generous Invitation")) and providing wagons for the journey. This verse specifically details the substantial and luxurious provisions Joseph sends back with his brothers, serving as a concrete demonstration of his prosperity, love, and the urgency of their relocation.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the ancient Near East, the sending of gifts was a common practice, especially between rulers or powerful individuals, signifying status, goodwill, and the sealing of agreements. Joseph, as the second-in-command of Egypt, would have been expected to send a retinue and provisions befitting his position. Donkeys were the primary beasts of burden for long-distance travel, capable of carrying significant loads across diverse terrain. The "good things of Egypt" would have included valuable textiles, exotic foods, perhaps even precious metals or spices, showcasing Egypt's wealth and Joseph's access to it. The provision of grain, bread, and meat was crucial, as Jacob's family was in Canaan, suffering from a severe famine that had gripped the entire region (see [Genesis 41:56-57](/genesis/41-56-57 "The Famine Spreads")). This lavish provision not only ensured their sustenance during the arduous journey but also served as undeniable proof to Jacob of Joseph's well-being and high standing, dispelling any lingering doubts or fears.

* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes within the Joseph narrative and the book of Genesis. Foremost is **Divine Providence**, demonstrating how God meticulously orchestrates seemingly disparate events—from Joseph's betrayal and sale into slavery ([Genesis 37:28](/genesis/37-28 "Joseph Sold into Slavery")) to his rise in Egypt—to preserve His covenant people and fulfill His promises. The lavish provision underscores **Reconciliation and Restoration**, as Joseph's actions bridge years of pain and estrangement, offering tangible proof of his forgiveness and love. It highlights the theme of **Family Preservation**, as God uses Joseph to save Jacob's household from famine, ensuring the continuation of the lineage through which the Messiah would come. Finally, it emphasizes **Joseph's Elevated Status and Wisdom**, showcasing his administrative prowess and deep compassion, mirroring God's own character as a provider and redeemer (compare [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "God's Redemptive Purpose")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 45:23 describes the specific, abundant provisions Joseph sent to his father, Jacob, as a concrete expression of his love, status, and the urgent need for his family to relocate to Egypt. The verse states: "And to his father he sent after this [manner]; ten asses laden with the good things of Egypt, and ten she asses laden with corn and bread and meat for his father by the way."

#### Key Word Analysis
* **sent (Hebrew, _shâlach'_):** This word (H7971) is a primitive root meaning "to send away, for, or out" in a great variety of applications. Here, it denotes Joseph's intentional action of dispatching the provisions and his brothers. It implies a deliberate and authoritative command, underscoring Joseph's power and the urgency of the mission. The act of sending is not merely a gesture but a directive for a pivotal family migration.
* **good things (Hebrew, _ṭûwb'_):** Derived from H2898, this word signifies "good (as a noun), in the widest sense, especially goodness (superlative concretely, the best), beauty, gladness, welfare." When applied to "the good things of Egypt," it implies valuable, high-quality, and desirable items, likely luxuries or goods that would impress Jacob and signify Joseph's immense wealth and influence as second-in-command. It was a display of honor, a guarantee of comfort, and a testament to Egypt's abundance.
* **way (Hebrew, _derek'_):** From H1870, this term literally means "a road (as trodden)." Figuratively, it can refer to "a course of life or mode of action." In this context, "by the way" refers to the journey itself, emphasizing the practical necessity of the provisions for the arduous travel from Canaan to Egypt. It highlights Joseph's meticulous foresight in planning for his family's welfare during their relocation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And to his father he sent after this [manner];"**: This opening clause immediately establishes the recipient and the initiator of the action. Joseph, now revealed and reconciled, takes the initiative to provide for his aging father, Jacob. The phrase "after this manner" (referring to H2063, _zôʼth_, "this") indicates a specific, detailed, and intentional plan of provision, not a haphazard offering. It signals the deliberate and generous nature of Joseph's gifts.
* **"ten asses laden with the good things of Egypt,"**: This specifies the first part of the provision. "Asses" (H860, _ʼâthôwn_, female donkey, though the KJV translates it as male here, while the next phrase specifies "she asses") refers to the beasts of burden. The number "ten" signifies a substantial quantity, demonstrating the scale of Joseph's generosity. The "good things of Egypt" (H2898, _ṭûwb_ and H4714, _Mitsrayim_) are not mere necessities but valuable, high-quality, and perhaps luxurious items, reflecting Joseph's immense wealth and status as Pharaoh's prime minister. These gifts served not only practical purposes but also as a tangible sign of honor and reassurance to Jacob.
* **"and ten she asses laden with corn and bread and meat for his father by the way."**: This second part of the provision focuses on essential foodstuffs for the journey. The mention of "she asses" (H2543, _chămôwr_, male ass, but contextually here, female, or simply a general term for donkey) again emphasizes the sheer number of animals and the vast quantity of supplies. "Corn" (H1250, _bâr_, grain), "bread" (H3899, _lechem_, food, especially bread), and "meat" (H4202, _mâzôwn_, food, victual) were fundamental provisions for sustenance. This meticulous care for their physical needs "by the way" (H1870, _derek_) underscores Joseph's foresight and his commitment to ensuring his family's comfortable and safe relocation during the ongoing famine.

#### Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices to convey its meaning and emotional weight. **Hyperbole** is evident in the sheer abundance of the provisions—"ten asses" and "ten she asses" laden with "good things" and essential sustenance—which emphasizes Joseph's immense wealth and generosity, far exceeding mere necessity. This lavishness also functions as **Symbolism**, where the material gifts symbolize the restoration of relationship, the depth of Joseph's love, and the tangible manifestation of God's abundant provision. The meticulous detailing of the provisions also serves as a form of **Foreshadowing**, preparing the reader for the significant migration of Jacob's entire household to Egypt, a pivotal moment that sets the stage for the formation of the nation of Israel and the subsequent Exodus narrative.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Genesis 45:23 stands as a powerful testament to divine providence, reconciliation, and abundant provision. Joseph's lavish gifts to his father were not merely practical necessities but a profound expression of his restored love and a tangible sign of his elevated status, enabling him to provide beyond measure for his family during a time of severe famine. This act mirrors God's own character, who not only provides for our basic needs but often blesses us with an abundance that exceeds our expectations, demonstrating His boundless love and faithfulness. It underscores that even through human actions and material means, God orchestrates His redemptive plan, turning past suffering into future blessing and ensuring the preservation of His covenant people.

* [Philippians 4:19](/philippians/4-19 "God's Provision")
* [2 Corinthians 5:18-19](/2_corinthians/5-18-19 "The Ministry of Reconciliation")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God Works All Things for Good")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Genesis 45:23 offers a profound lesson on the transformative power of reconciliation and the practical outworking of love. Joseph, having endured betrayal and hardship, responds not with bitterness but with overwhelming generosity, demonstrating a heart aligned with God's redemptive purposes. His meticulous provision for his family, ensuring their comfort and safety, challenges us to consider how we can extend practical care and abundant grace to those in our own lives, especially family members or those who have caused us pain. It reminds us that God often uses our resources, positions, and compassion as channels to fulfill His divine will, preparing the way for His people and demonstrating His faithfulness even through unexpected and challenging circumstances. We are called to be conduits of God's provision, reconciliation, and practical love, reflecting His character to a world in need, moving beyond past hurts to embrace a future of blessing and restoration.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Joseph's generosity in this verse challenge my own willingness to forgive and provide for those who may have wronged me?**
* **In what ways can I use my own resources or position to practically care for and bless my family or community, especially in times of need or transition?**
* **How does this passage encourage me to trust in God's provision and His sovereign plan, even when circumstances seem dire or uncertain?**

### FAQ
**Why did Joseph send so many provisions to his father?**

Answer: Joseph sent abundant provisions for multiple, interconnected reasons. Primarily, it was a profound demonstration of his immense love and deep respect for his father, Jacob, after years of separation. Second, it addressed the practical needs of Jacob and his entire household, ensuring their comfort and sustenance during the arduous journey from Canaan to Egypt, especially in the midst of a severe famine. Finally, the lavishness served as tangible confirmation of Joseph's high status and prosperity in Egypt, thereby reassuring Jacob that Joseph was not only alive but thriving, and that the invitation to relocate was sincere and beneficial for the entire family (see [Genesis 45:18-20](/genesis/45-18-20 "Pharaoh's Generosity and Joseph's Instructions")).

**What is the significance of "the good things of Egypt"?**

Answer: The phrase "the good things of Egypt" (Hebrew: *ṭûḇ Miṣrayim*) carries significant weight beyond mere basic necessities. It implies valuable, high-quality, and desirable items, likely luxuries or goods that would impress Jacob and signify Joseph's immense wealth and influence as second-in-command of the most powerful nation in the region. It was a display of honor, a guarantee of comfort, and a testament to Egypt's abundance and Joseph's ability to provide the very best for his family, dispelling any doubts Jacob might have had about the move or Joseph's well-being.

**Why are both "asses" and "she asses" mentioned?**

Answer: The distinction between "asses" (male donkeys) and "she asses" (female donkeys) primarily serves to emphasize the sheer number and capacity of animals dedicated to this crucial task of transport, highlighting the vast quantity of goods being sent. While male donkeys were generally preferred for heavy burdens, mentioning both might indicate the full complement of available animals being utilized, or perhaps different types of burdens were assigned to each. Ultimately, it underscores the immense scale and meticulous planning of Joseph's provision, ensuring that Jacob's entire household would be well-equipped for their pivotal journey to Egypt (compare [Genesis 46:5-7](/genesis/46-5-7 "Jacob's Journey to Egypt")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph's lavish provision for his family in [Genesis 45:23](/genesis/45-23 "Joseph's Lavish Provision for Jacob") beautifully foreshadows the ultimate provision and reconciliation offered through Jesus Christ. Just as Joseph, once rejected and sold by his brothers, became their savior and provider, sustaining them in a time of famine, so too Christ, though rejected by humanity ([Isaiah 53:3](/isaiah/53-3 "He was despised and rejected by mankind")), became the means of our eternal salvation and spiritual sustenance. Joseph's gifts ensured his family's physical survival and relocation to a place of abundance in Goshen, mirroring Christ's spiritual provision that brings us from the famine of sin and spiritual death into the fullness of God's grace and prepares us for our eternal inheritance in the heavenly kingdom ([John 6:35](/john/6-35 "Jesus, the Bread of Life")). His act of reconciliation, bridging the gap of past hurts with abundant love and tangible blessing, points profoundly to Christ's atoning work on the cross, which reconciles us to God ([2 Corinthians 5:18-19](/2_corinthians/5-18-19 "God Reconciled Us to Himself Through Christ")) and brings us into His family, fulfilling God's sovereign plan for humanity's redemption and the establishment of His eternal covenant ([Ephesians 2:13-16](/ephesians/2-13-16 "Reconciliation Through the Cross")).

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 24:10

¶ And the servant took ten camels of the camels of his master, and departed; for all the goods of his master [were] in his hand: and he arose, and went to Mesopotamia, unto the city of Nahor.

Exodus 16:3

And the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the LORD in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the flesh pots, [and] when we did eat bread to the full; for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.

Genesis 43:11

¶ And their father Israel said unto them, If [it must be] so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds: