Genesis 43:14

May God Almighty grant you mercy before the man, that he may release your other brother along with Benjamin. As for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved."

Study Bible

May God Almighty grant you mercy before the man
This phrase invokes the name "God Almighty," which is translated from the Hebrew "El Shaddai." This name emphasizes God's power and sovereignty, often used in contexts where divine intervention is sought. Jacob, the speaker, is appealing to God's supreme authority to influence the Egyptian official, who is Joseph, though unknown to them at this point. The plea for mercy highlights the dire situation, as the brothers are returning to Egypt to buy grain during a severe famine. The concept of mercy is central in biblical narratives, often associated with God's covenantal faithfulness. This plea reflects a deep reliance on divine providence, echoing themes found in other scriptures such as Psalm 57:1, where seeking God's mercy is a refuge in times of trouble.

that he may release your other brother along with Benjamin
The "other brother" refers to Simeon, who was held in Egypt as a guarantee of the brothers' return with Benjamin. This situation underscores the tension and fear within Jacob's family, as they are forced to confront past sins, particularly the selling of Joseph into slavery. The mention of Benjamin, Jacob's youngest and most beloved son after Joseph, adds emotional weight. Benjamin's safety is paramount to Jacob, reflecting the patriarchal family's dynamics and favoritism. This narrative foreshadows the eventual reconciliation and restoration of the family, a theme that resonates with the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32, where reconciliation follows repentance and forgiveness.

As for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved.
Jacob's statement here is one of resignation and acceptance of potential loss. This reflects a shift in Jacob's character from earlier in Genesis, where he often relied on his cunning and resourcefulness. Now, he acknowledges his vulnerability and the limits of his control, entrusting the outcome to God's will. This mirrors the attitude of Esther in Esther 4:16, where she resolves to approach the king despite the risk, saying, "If I perish, I perish." Both instances highlight a surrender to divine sovereignty, trusting in God's plan despite personal risk or loss. Jacob's acceptance of potential bereavement also prefigures the ultimate sacrifice and surrender seen in Jesus Christ, who willingly faced death for the redemption of humanity, as described in Philippians 2:8.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the Israelite tribes, father of Joseph and his brothers. In this verse, he is expressing his hope and resignation as he sends his sons back to Egypt.

2. God Almighty (El Shaddai)
A name for God emphasizing His power and sovereignty. Jacob invokes this name, seeking divine intervention and mercy.

3. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob, who are returning to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. They are unaware that the Egyptian official they are dealing with is their brother Joseph.

4. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob, whom Jacob is particularly protective of after losing Joseph. His safety is a central concern in this account.

5. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers must go to buy food during the famine.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Jacob's invocation of "God Almighty" (El Shaddai) reminds us to trust in God's ultimate power and control over our circumstances.

Seeking Divine Mercy
Jacob's prayer for mercy highlights the importance of seeking God's compassion and favor in challenging situations.

Acceptance of God's Will
Jacob's statement, "if I am bereaved, I am bereaved," demonstrates a surrender to God's will, teaching us to accept outcomes beyond our control.

Family and Responsibility
The account underscores the importance of family unity and responsibility, as Jacob sends his sons to secure provisions for their survival.

Faith in Action
Jacob's decision to send Benjamin, despite his fears, illustrates faith in action, encouraging us to step forward in faith even when anxious.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's use of the name "God Almighty" (El Shaddai) in Genesis 43:14 reflect his understanding of God's character, and how can this influence our prayers today?

2. In what ways does Jacob's plea for mercy before "the man" (Joseph) parallel our need for God's mercy in our lives?

3. How does Jacob's acceptance of potential bereavement demonstrate a balance between faith and resignation, and how can we apply this balance in our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jacob's willingness to send Benjamin to Egypt, and how does this relate to trusting God with our most precious concerns?

5. How can the themes of family responsibility and unity in this passage inform our relationships and responsibilities within our own families and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
The preceding chapter sets the stage for this verse, where Joseph's brothers first go to Egypt and encounter Joseph without recognizing him.

Genesis 32:9-12
Jacob's prayer for deliverance from Esau, showing his reliance on God in times of distress, similar to his plea in Genesis 43:14.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace, which parallels Jacob's reliance on God for mercy.

Romans 8:28
The assurance that God works all things for good for those who love Him, reflecting the underlying trust in God's plan seen in Jacob's statement.