Genesis 43:27

He asked if they were well, and then he asked, "How is your elderly father you told me about? Is he still alive?"

Study Bible

He asked if they were well
In this passage, Joseph, who is now a powerful figure in Egypt, inquires about the well-being of his brothers. This reflects the cultural importance of hospitality and concern for others' welfare in ancient Near Eastern societies. The Hebrew word for "well" here is "shalom," which encompasses peace, health, and completeness. Joseph's inquiry is significant as it shows his continued care for his family despite their past betrayal. This moment also foreshadows the reconciliation and restoration of relationships, a theme prevalent throughout the Bible.

and then he asked, “How is your elderly father you told me about?
Joseph's question about their father, Jacob, highlights the importance of family lineage and respect for elders in biblical times. Jacob, also known as Israel, is a patriarch whose life and experiences are foundational to the Israelite identity. This inquiry is not just about Jacob's physical health but also about the continuity of God's covenant promises through him. Joseph's concern for his father reflects the biblical principle of honoring one's parents, as seen in the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:12).

Is he still alive?”
The question of Jacob's survival is poignant, considering the years of separation and the uncertainty surrounding his well-being. This reflects the broader biblical theme of life and death, and the preservation of God's chosen people. Joseph's inquiry can be seen as a type of Christ, who is deeply concerned with the life and spiritual well-being of His people. The survival of Jacob is crucial for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, as it ensures the continuation of the lineage through which the Messiah would eventually come.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
- The governor of Egypt, who is actually the brother of the men he is questioning. He is in a position of power and is testing his brothers' integrity and familial loyalty.

2. Joseph's Brothers
- They have come to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. Unbeknownst to them, the Egyptian official they are dealing with is their brother Joseph, whom they sold into slavery years earlier.

3. Jacob (Israel)
- The elderly father of Joseph and his brothers, who remains in Canaan. His well-being is of concern to Joseph, indicating Joseph's continued love and respect for his father.

4. Egypt
- The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to seek sustenance during the famine.

5. Canaan
- The homeland of Jacob and his sons, where the famine has struck, prompting their journey to Egypt.

Teaching Points

Family Reconciliation
Joseph's inquiry about his father shows his desire for family reconciliation despite past wrongs. This teaches us the importance of seeking restoration in our own family relationships.

Respect for Elders
Joseph's concern for his elderly father highlights the biblical principle of honoring and caring for our parents, a value that remains relevant today.

God's Sovereignty
Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership in Egypt demonstrates God's sovereign plan and purpose, even through difficult circumstances. We can trust that God is at work in our lives, even when we don't understand His ways.

Forgiveness and Grace
Joseph's interactions with his brothers, despite their betrayal, foreshadow the grace and forgiveness that are central to the Christian faith. We are called to extend forgiveness to others as we have been forgiven by Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's inquiry about his father reflect his character and priorities? How can we apply this attitude in our own family relationships?

2. In what ways does Joseph's account illustrate the principle of honoring one's parents, as seen in Exodus 20:12? How can we practice this in our daily lives?

3. How does the theme of reconciliation in Joseph's account connect with the Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15? What lessons can we learn about forgiveness and restoration?

4. Consider the role of God's sovereignty in Joseph's life. How can we find comfort and assurance in God's plan for us, even when facing challenges?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to forgive someone who wronged you. How does Joseph's example encourage you to extend grace and forgiveness in your own life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's relationship with his brothers, including their betrayal and his eventual rise to power in Egypt.

Genesis 42
The previous chapter where Joseph first encounters his brothers in Egypt, setting the stage for the events of Genesis 43.

Exodus 20:12
The commandment to honor one's father and mother, which is reflected in Joseph's concern for his father Jacob.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which shares themes of reconciliation and familial love, similar to Joseph's eventual reconciliation with his brothers.