Genesis 43:5

But if thou wilt not send [him], we will not go down: for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother [be] with you.

But if thou wilt not send {H7971} him, we will not go down {H3381}: for the man {H376} said {H559} unto us, Ye shall not see {H7200} my face {H6440}, except your brother {H251} be with you.

but if you will not send him, we will not go down; for the man said to us, 'You will not see my face unless your brother is with you.'"

But if you will not send him, we will not go; for the man told us, ‘You will not see my face again unless your brother is with you.’”

but if thou wilt not send him, we will not go down; for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.

Commentary

Genesis 43:5 is a pivotal verse in the narrative of Jacob's family, highlighting the desperate situation they faced during a severe famine and the strict conditions set by the Egyptian governor, Joseph, unbeknownst to them.

Context

This verse is spoken by Judah to his father, Jacob. The land of Canaan was experiencing a devastating famine, prompting Jacob to send his ten eldest sons to Egypt to buy grain, as he had heard there was food there (Genesis 42:1). Upon their first visit, they encountered Joseph, who was now the powerful governor of Egypt (Genesis 42:6). Joseph, recognizing his brothers but remaining unrecognized by them, accused them of being spies and demanded they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, back with them on their next trip to prove their honesty. Simeon was kept as a hostage (Genesis 42:19-20).

Jacob was deeply distressed by this demand, fearing for Benjamin's safety, especially after the presumed loss of Joseph years earlier (Genesis 42:36). However, as their food supply dwindled, the necessity of returning to Egypt became urgent. Judah's words in Genesis 43:5 serve as a stark reminder to Jacob of Joseph's non-negotiable condition for their return, emphasizing that without Benjamin, they would not be allowed to purchase more sustenance.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Dire Necessity: The verse underscores the extreme pressure and desperation caused by the famine. The choice was stark: bring Benjamin or face starvation. This highlights how circumstances can force difficult decisions.
  • Joseph's Unwavering Resolve: "The man" refers to Joseph, who maintains his strict stance to test his brothers and ultimately bring Benjamin to him, setting the stage for the powerful family reunion and reconciliation.
  • Jacob's Protective Love: Jacob's reluctance to send Benjamin reveals his deep affection and fear of further loss, especially after the tragedy of Joseph. This tension between protection and necessity is central to the narrative.
  • Consequences of Compliance: The brothers clearly understood that their access to food and safety in Egypt was directly tied to their obedience to the governor's command.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "see my face" is an idiomatic expression in ancient Near Eastern cultures, meaning to gain an audience with or permission from a superior. It signifies that without Benjamin, they would not even be granted an interview, let alone allowed to conduct business.

Practical Application

This verse reminds us that life often presents us with difficult choices where essential needs conflict with personal desires or fears. It speaks to:

  • Trusting in God's Providence: Even in moments of great uncertainty and seemingly impossible demands, God is at work behind the scenes, orchestrating events for His ultimate purpose, as seen in Joseph's story (Genesis 50:20).
  • The Weight of Responsibility: Judah steps up in this moment, taking responsibility for Benjamin's safety (Genesis 43:9), illustrating leadership and commitment in times of crisis.
  • Overcoming Fear for Survival: The family's journey demonstrates the lengths people will go to secure their well-being and the importance of facing fears when necessary for survival.
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Cross-References

  • Genesis 42:38 (2 votes)

    And he said, My son shall not go down with you; for his brother is dead, and he is left alone: if mischief befall him by the way in the which ye go, then shall ye bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave.

  • Genesis 44:26 (2 votes)

    And we said, We cannot go down: if our youngest brother be with us, then will we go down: for we may not see the man's face, except our youngest brother [be] with us.

  • Exodus 20:12 (2 votes)

    ¶ Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.