Genesis 43:26

When Joseph came home, they presented him with the gifts they had brought, and they bowed to the ground before him.

Study Bible

When Joseph came home
This phrase indicates Joseph's return to his residence, likely a place of authority in Egypt. Joseph, once sold into slavery by his brothers, has risen to a position of power as the governor of Egypt. His home would have been a place of significant status, reflecting his high rank. This moment is pivotal as it sets the stage for the fulfillment of Joseph's earlier dreams (Genesis 37:5-11), where his brothers would bow to him.

they presented him with the gifts they had brought
The brothers bring gifts to Joseph as a gesture of goodwill and respect, a common practice in ancient Near Eastern culture when approaching a person of higher status. These gifts were likely chosen to appease Joseph and secure favor, reflecting the customs of diplomacy and reconciliation. The act of presenting gifts is reminiscent of Jacob's earlier attempt to appease Esau with gifts (Genesis 32:13-21).

and they bowed to the ground before him
This act of bowing fulfills the prophecy of Joseph's dreams, where his brothers' sheaves bowed to his sheaf (Genesis 37:7). Bowing was a sign of deep respect and submission, acknowledging Joseph's authority. This moment is significant in the narrative, as it demonstrates the sovereignty of God's plan and the fulfillment of His promises. It also prefigures the ultimate submission to Christ, who is typified by Joseph as a savior figure.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and rose to become the second most powerful man in Egypt. In this verse, he is the one receiving his brothers who have come to buy grain during the famine.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who previously sold Joseph into slavery. They are now in Egypt to buy grain due to the severe famine in Canaan.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to seek food.

4. The Gifts
Items brought by Joseph's brothers as a gesture of goodwill and respect, including balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachio nuts, and almonds.

5. The Act of Bowing
A gesture of respect and submission, fulfilling Joseph's earlier dreams where his brothers' sheaves bowed to his sheaf.

Teaching Points

Fulfillment of God's Promises
God's plans and promises may take time, but they are always fulfilled. Joseph's dreams, given by God, are realized in this moment.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
Joseph's interaction with his brothers sets the stage for reconciliation. We are called to forgive those who have wronged us, as Joseph eventually does.

Respect and Humility
The brothers' act of bowing demonstrates respect and humility. We should approach God and others with a humble heart.

Providence and Provision
God provides for His people even in times of famine. Trust in God's provision, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Power of Repentance
The brothers' actions show a change of heart. True repentance involves a change in behavior and attitude.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the fulfillment of Joseph's dreams in Genesis 43:26 encourage you to trust in God's timing and promises in your own life?

2. In what ways can Joseph's account of forgiveness and reconciliation inspire you to mend broken relationships in your life?

3. How does the act of bowing by Joseph's brothers relate to our posture before God, and what does it teach us about humility?

4. Reflect on a time when God provided for you in a difficult situation. How can this passage encourage you to trust in God's provision?

5. How can the change in Joseph's brothers' behavior challenge you to demonstrate true repentance in your own life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37:5-10
Joseph's dreams, which foretold his brothers bowing to him, are fulfilled in this encounter.

Philippians 2:10-11
The act of bowing can be connected to the ultimate submission to Christ, where every knee will bow.

Proverbs 18:16
The gifts brought by the brothers can be related to the proverb about a gift opening doors and gaining access to important people.