Genesis 42:4

But Jacob did not send Joseph's brother Benjamin with his brothers, for he said, "I am afraid that harm might befall him."

Study Bible

But Jacob did not send Joseph’s brother Benjamin with his brothers
Jacob's decision to withhold Benjamin from the journey to Egypt reflects his deep-seated fear and protective nature following the loss of Joseph, whom he believed to be dead. Benjamin, as the only remaining son of Rachel, Jacob's beloved wife, held a special place in Jacob's heart. This decision underscores the familial tensions and favoritism that have been a recurring theme in Jacob's family dynamics. The withholding of Benjamin also sets the stage for the unfolding drama in Egypt, where Joseph, unbeknownst to his brothers, holds a position of power.

for he said, “I am afraid that harm might befall him.”
Jacob's fear of harm coming to Benjamin is rooted in his traumatic experience of losing Joseph, which he attributes to a wild animal attack (Genesis 37:33). This fear is compounded by the dangerous nature of travel during that time, which included threats from bandits and harsh environmental conditions. Jacob's protective instinct is a natural response to the perceived vulnerability of his youngest son. This phrase also highlights the theme of fear and protection that runs throughout the patriarchal narratives, as well as the human tendency to try to control circumstances to prevent further loss.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob
Also known as Israel, he is the patriarch of the Israelite tribes. In this verse, he is depicted as a protective father, concerned for the safety of his youngest son, Benjamin.

2. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and the only full brother of Joseph. Jacob's reluctance to send him to Egypt highlights his special status in Jacob's heart.

3. Joseph's Brothers
The other sons of Jacob, who are sent to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. Their journey sets the stage for the unfolding of God's plan for reconciliation and provision.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph, Jacob's son, has risen to power. It is the place of refuge during the famine and a pivotal location in the account of Joseph and his brothers.

5. Famine
A severe shortage of food that affects the entire region, prompting Jacob to send his sons to Egypt for grain. This event is a catalyst for the reunion of Joseph with his family.

Teaching Points

Parental Protection and Trust in God
Jacob's fear for Benjamin's safety is natural, yet it challenges us to balance protective instincts with trust in God's sovereignty.

The Role of Fear in Decision-Making
Fear can influence our decisions, as seen in Jacob's reluctance. We must discern when fear is protective and when it hinders faith.

God's Providence in Difficult Circumstances
The famine and the journey to Egypt are part of God's larger plan. Trusting in God's providence can bring peace in uncertain times.

Family Dynamics and Favoritism
Jacob's favoritism towards Benjamin echoes his earlier favoritism towards Joseph, reminding us of the potential for family discord and the need for fairness.

Reconciliation and Redemption
The account sets the stage for reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers, illustrating God's redemptive work in broken relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's fear for Benjamin reflect his past experiences, and what can we learn about dealing with fear from this?

2. In what ways does the famine serve as a catalyst for God's plan in the lives of Jacob's family, and how can we see God's hand in our own challenging circumstances?

3. How does Jacob's favoritism towards Benjamin compare to his earlier treatment of Joseph, and what lessons can we draw about favoritism in our own relationships?

4. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the theme of reconciliation, and what steps can we take towards reconciliation in our own lives?

5. How can we balance our natural protective instincts with a trust in God's sovereignty, especially when it comes to the safety and well-being of our loved ones?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The earlier account of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers, which sets the background for Jacob's fear of losing another beloved son.

Genesis 44
The later account of Benjamin's journey to Egypt, which tests the brothers' integrity and leads to Joseph's revelation of his identity.

Psalm 91
A psalm of protection, reflecting Jacob's desire for God's safeguarding over his family.

Romans 8:28
The assurance that God works all things for good, which is evident in the unfolding of Joseph's account and the preservation of Jacob's family.