Genesis 43:34

When the portions were served to them from Joseph's table, Benjamin's portion was five times larger than any of the others. So they feasted and drank freely with Joseph.

Study Bible

When the portions were served to them from Joseph’s table
In ancient Near Eastern culture, sharing a meal was a sign of fellowship and acceptance. Joseph, now a powerful Egyptian official, extends this gesture to his brothers, indicating a shift from their previous estrangement. The act of serving from Joseph's table signifies his authority and generosity. This moment foreshadows the reconciliation and restoration of familial relationships, reminiscent of the prodigal son’s feast in Luke 15:22-24.

Benjamin’s portion was five times larger than any of the others
The number five in biblical numerology often symbolizes grace. Benjamin, Joseph's full brother, receives a portion five times larger, highlighting Joseph's special affection for him. This act tests the brothers' jealousy, reminiscent of their earlier envy towards Joseph (Genesis 37:4). It also prefigures the grace and favor shown by God to His chosen people, as seen in the blessings given to Israel.

So they feasted and drank freely with Joseph
The brothers' ability to feast and drink freely with Joseph indicates a moment of peace and acceptance. In the context of the narrative, this scene contrasts with their earlier fear and guilt (Genesis 42:21-22). It symbolizes the breaking down of barriers and the beginning of reconciliation. This fellowship meal can be seen as a type of the Messianic banquet, where all are invited to partake in the joy and abundance of God's kingdom, as prophesied in Isaiah 25:6.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The governor of Egypt, who was once sold into slavery by his brothers. He is now in a position of power and is testing his brothers' character.

2. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob and Joseph's full brother. He receives a portion five times larger than his brothers, highlighting Joseph's special affection for him.

3. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who previously sold Joseph into slavery. They are now in Egypt seeking food during a famine and are unaware of Joseph's true identity.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to buy grain during a severe famine.

5. Feast
A significant event where Joseph dines with his brothers, testing their jealousy and unity by giving Benjamin a larger portion.

Teaching Points

Grace and Favor
Joseph's act of giving Benjamin a larger portion is a demonstration of grace and favor. It reminds us of God's abundant grace towards us, even when we may not deserve it.

Testing of Character
Joseph's actions test his brothers' character, particularly their jealousy and unity. This challenges us to reflect on how we respond to others' blessings and successes.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The feast is a step towards reconciliation. It encourages us to seek forgiveness and restoration in our relationships, following Joseph's example.

God's Sovereignty
Despite past wrongs, God uses Joseph's position to bring about His purposes. This teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty in our lives, even in difficult circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's treatment of Benjamin reflect God's grace towards us, and how can we extend that grace to others in our lives?

2. In what ways does Joseph's test of his brothers' character challenge us to examine our own hearts for jealousy or resentment?

3. How can the account of Joseph and his brothers inspire us to pursue reconciliation and forgiveness in our own relationships?

4. What does this passage teach us about God's sovereignty and His ability to use our circumstances for His purposes?

5. How can we apply the lessons of favor and testing from this passage to our daily walk with God and interactions with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph's dreams and his brothers' jealousy, which led to his being sold into slavery. This background sets the stage for the current test of character.

Genesis 42
The first visit of Joseph's brothers to Egypt, where Joseph begins to test them, setting up the events of Genesis 43.

1 Samuel 1
Hannah's account, where a portion is given to her by her husband, Elkanah, showing favor and love, similar to Joseph's favor towards Benjamin.

Luke 15
The parable of the Prodigal Son, where the father's lavish love and forgiveness mirror Joseph's grace towards his brothers.