Genesis 43:13

Take your brother as well, and return to the man at once.

Study Bible

Take your brother as well
This phrase refers to Jacob's instruction to his sons to take Benjamin with them to Egypt. Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and the only full brother of Joseph, who was the governor of Egypt at the time. The brothers had previously gone to Egypt to buy grain during a famine but were accused of being spies. Joseph, unrecognized by them, demanded they bring Benjamin to prove their honesty. This request was significant because Jacob was deeply protective of Benjamin after losing Joseph, whom he believed to be dead. The inclusion of Benjamin highlights themes of trust and reconciliation, as well as the fulfillment of Joseph's earlier dreams where his family would bow to him.

and return to the man at once
The "man" refers to Joseph, who held a position of power in Egypt. The urgency in Jacob's command underscores the dire situation due to the famine and the need for more grain. This return journey is pivotal in the narrative, as it sets the stage for the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity to his brothers. The phrase also reflects the broader biblical theme of returning or repenting, which is a recurring motif throughout Scripture. The brothers' return to Egypt symbolizes a journey towards redemption and restoration of family relationships.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the family, father of the twelve tribes of Israel. In this passage, he is reluctantly sending his sons back to Egypt with Benjamin.

2. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob, and the only full brother of Joseph. His presence is crucial for the brothers' return to Egypt.

3. Joseph
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, he is the "man" referred to, who is the governor of Egypt and Jacob's son, unbeknownst to his brothers.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where the brothers must return to buy grain during the famine.

5. The Brothers
The sons of Jacob, who are tasked with returning to Egypt with Benjamin to secure more food and prove their honesty.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Jacob's decision to send Benjamin reflects a trust in God's plan, despite his fears. We are reminded to trust God's sovereignty in our own lives, even when circumstances are daunting.

Family Unity and Sacrifice
The brothers' willingness to take Benjamin reflects a growing sense of responsibility and unity. In our families, we should strive for unity and be willing to make sacrifices for one another.

Facing Past Mistakes
The brothers must confront their past actions against Joseph. This teaches us the importance of repentance and reconciliation in our relationships.

Faith in Action
Jacob's actions demonstrate faith in God's provision. We are called to put our faith into action, trusting God to guide our steps.

God's Provision in Times of Need
The famine and the journey to Egypt highlight God's provision. We can trust that God will provide for our needs, even in difficult times.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's decision to send Benjamin reflect his faith in God's promises, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives?

2. In what ways do the brothers' actions demonstrate a change of heart from their earlier treatment of Joseph, and how can we seek reconciliation in our relationships?

3. How does the theme of family unity in this passage encourage us to foster stronger bonds within our own families?

4. What can we learn from Jacob's willingness to face his fears and take action, and how can this inspire us to act in faith during challenging situations?

5. How does this passage illustrate God's provision, and what other scriptures reinforce the idea of trusting God to meet our needs?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
The previous chapter sets the stage for this journey, where the brothers first encounter Joseph in Egypt and are accused of being spies.

Genesis 44
The subsequent chapter continues the account, where Joseph tests his brothers' integrity and loyalty to Benjamin.

Genesis 37
Provides background on Joseph's relationship with his brothers, which led to his being sold into slavery.

Genesis 46
Details the eventual reunion of Jacob and Joseph, fulfilling God's promise to preserve Jacob's family.