Tyndale Open Study NotesGenesis 43

Joseph did several unusual things to his brothers when they came looking for grain. The last time Joseph had been with them, they were filled with jealousy, hatred, and anger; they attempted to destroy their brother, and they deceived their father. Joseph put them through various tests, similar to the trying situations they had put him through, to see if they had changed.

As the famine continued, Jacob's family needed more grain. But, they could not go back to Egypt without Benjamin (42:16, 20). Jacob understood he was in a difficult situation. He needed more food but he would not risk losing Benjamin.

Judah solved the problem by taking responsibility for Benjamin’s safety. In this way, he succeeded where Reuben had failed. This change was important because Judah had earlier suggested selling Joseph to the Ishmaelites (37:26–27) instead of killing him. Now he would secure Benjamin’s safety with his own life (see 44:18–34).

Jacob provided everything he could to ensure a favorable reception from the Egyptian governor ("the man"; compare 32:13–21).

Jacob finally trusted God Almighty with his family's future. This divine title emphasizes God's power (see also 17:1; 28:3; 35:11; 48:3; 1 Kings 19:10, 14; Revelation 21:22).

When Joseph saw Benjamin with his brothers: Joseph knew Benjamin was well (see study note on 42:1–44:34). The feast was both a celebration and a test.

the brothers were frightened: Compare 32:6–12. Their guilt stopped them from seeing that something good might happen.

The brothers, completely vulnerable and feeling the weight of God’s judgment on their consciences, approached the manager in desperation.

Joseph stopped being harsh to his brothers and treated them kindly instead.

For the second time, the brothers bowed to the ground before him.This fulfilled his first dream (37:7; see 42:6–7; compare 33:3).

May God be gracious to you, my son: Joseph’s blessing to his full brother fulfilled Jacob’s prayer (43:14).

• he was moved to tears for his brother: Compare 42:24. Joseph cried because of painful memories and lost years with his brother. He also felt joy and gratitude for seeing Benjamin again.

• he went to a private room: This was because he was not ready to reveal his identity.

in astonishment: This ruler knew more about the brothers than seemed possible (compare 44:15).

The brothers experienced generous and gracious treatment from God through Joseph.

Joseph tested them. He showed special favor to Benjamin, who was also Rachel’s son. In the past, their father’s favoritism toward Joseph had caused jealousy and hatred.

By treating Benjamin with favor, Joseph tested whether they would respond with the same anger as before. This situation revealed whether their attitudes and behavior had changed.