Genesis 43:16

When Joseph saw Benjamin with his brothers, he said to the steward of his house, "Take these men to my house. Slaughter an animal and prepare it, for they shall dine with me at noon."

Study Bible

When Joseph saw Benjamin with his brothers
Joseph, now a powerful figure in Egypt, recognizes his youngest brother, Benjamin, whom he has not seen since his own sale into slavery. This moment is significant as it fulfills the condition Joseph set for his brothers to prove their honesty (Genesis 42:15). Benjamin's presence is crucial because he is the only other son of Rachel, Joseph's mother, and holds a special place in Joseph's heart. This reunion is a pivotal moment in the narrative, highlighting themes of reconciliation and family restoration.

he said to the steward of his house
Joseph's authority is evident as he commands his steward, reflecting his high status in Egypt. The steward, likely an Egyptian, would have been responsible for managing Joseph's household affairs, indicating Joseph's integration into Egyptian society while maintaining his Hebrew identity. This role of a steward is similar to Eliezer in Abraham's household (Genesis 15:2), showing a continuity of household management practices.

Take these men to my house
Joseph's invitation to his brothers to dine at his house is an act of hospitality and a step towards reconciliation. In the ancient Near East, sharing a meal was a sign of peace and fellowship. This gesture contrasts with the brothers' previous fear of being accused as spies (Genesis 42:9), and it foreshadows the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity and the healing of familial bonds.

Slaughter an animal and prepare it
The preparation of a meal by slaughtering an animal indicates a special occasion. In the cultural context, such a meal would be reserved for honored guests. This act also reflects the importance of hospitality in ancient times, where sharing a meal was a significant social and religious event. The slaughtering of an animal can also be seen as a type of sacrificial offering, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice of Christ, the Lamb of God.

for they shall dine with me at noon
Dining at noon suggests a formal and significant meal, as main meals were typically held in the evening. This timing emphasizes the importance Joseph places on this gathering. The act of dining together is a precursor to the eventual reconciliation and forgiveness that Joseph extends to his brothers, mirroring the forgiveness and restoration offered through Christ. The meal serves as a turning point in the narrative, leading to the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity and the fulfillment of God's plan for the family of Israel.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The governor of Egypt, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to power. He is a central figure in this account, demonstrating wisdom and forgiveness.

2. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob and Joseph's full brother. His presence is crucial as Joseph's actions are influenced by seeing him.

3. Joseph's Steward
An unnamed servant who follows Joseph's instructions, playing a role in the unfolding events by preparing the meal.

4. Joseph's House
The setting for the meal, symbolizing a place of reconciliation and revelation.

5. The Meal
A significant event that foreshadows reconciliation and the unfolding of God's plan for Joseph's family.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Reconciliation
Joseph's actions demonstrate God's overarching plan for reconciliation and restoration within families. Trust in God's timing and sovereignty in your relationships.

The Importance of Forgiveness
Joseph's willingness to dine with his brothers, despite their past actions, highlights the power of forgiveness. Consider how you can extend forgiveness to those who have wronged you.

Hospitality as a Means of Grace
The act of preparing a meal for his brothers shows hospitality as a tool for healing and grace. Reflect on how you can use hospitality to mend broken relationships.

Recognizing God's Provision
The meal symbolizes God's provision and care. Acknowledge and give thanks for the ways God provides for you, even in difficult circumstances.

The Role of Family in God's Plan
Joseph's account emphasizes the importance of family in God's redemptive plan. Seek to strengthen and nurture your family relationships as part of God's purpose for your life.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's reaction to seeing Benjamin reflect his character and his relationship with God?

2. In what ways does this passage demonstrate the theme of reconciliation, and how can you apply this to a current relationship in your life?

3. How does the concept of hospitality in this passage relate to the New Testament teachings on loving your neighbor?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's example about trusting God's plan, even when we don't understand our circumstances?

5. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers encourage you to view your family relationships in light of God's redemptive purposes?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
The previous chapter sets the stage for this event, where Joseph's brothers first come to Egypt for grain, and Joseph recognizes them but they do not recognize him.

Genesis 45
This chapter reveals the culmination of Joseph's plan, where he reveals his identity to his brothers, leading to reconciliation.

Luke 15:11-32
The parable of the Prodigal Son, which also involves themes of forgiveness, reconciliation, and a celebratory meal.

Psalm 23:5
The imagery of a prepared table in the presence of enemies, reflecting God's provision and grace.