Bible Commentaries
Genesis 43

Verses 1-34

Joseph Gets to See Benjamin

All of their sacks were filled with grain along with their money. Having already been accused of being spies, they were horrified when one brother discovered their money was in the mouth of their sacks. When they arrived back home, the brothers told Jacob everything that had happened. He felt he had now lost Simeon as well as Joseph and would lose Benjamin if he returned with them to Egypt. He would not allow them to go back, perhaps thinking the famine would end before the fresh supply of grain had been exhausted.

When the grain had been eaten, Jacob told his sons to return to Egypt to buy more. Judah reminded his father there was no need to go without Benjamin since the grand vizier, Joseph, had said they would not see his face without bringing their younger brother. Judah pledged to bring Benjamin back safely to him. Jacob relented, sending Benjamin along with double money and a gift of the best fruits of the land ( Gen_42:25-38 ; Gen_43:1-14 ).

Joseph, upon seeing his brothers return with Benjamin, directed that they be taken to his house and an animal slaughtered for a feast. They fearfully approached the servant explaining they had found their money in their sacks. He told them their God had given them the money because he had received the purchase price. Then, he brought Simeon out to be with them.

When Joseph came, he asked concerning his father's health. Then, he could barely contain himself when he saw Benjamin. He went to his quarters and wept. Joseph had each brother seated according to his age, which surprised them. Each brother was served, with Benjamin receiving five times as much as any other ( Gen_43:15-34 ).