Genesis 43:5

But if you will not send him, we will not go; for the man told us, 'You will not see my face again unless your brother is with you.'"

Study Bible

But if you will not send him,
This phrase reflects the urgency and necessity of sending Benjamin to Egypt. The brothers are speaking to their father, Jacob, emphasizing the critical nature of the situation. In the broader context of Genesis, this moment is pivotal as it tests Jacob's faith and trust in God. The reluctance to send Benjamin is rooted in Jacob's fear of losing another son, as he believes he lost Joseph. This highlights the theme of fear versus faith, a recurring theme throughout the Bible.

we will not go;
The brothers' refusal to return to Egypt without Benjamin underscores the seriousness of the Egyptian official's (Joseph's) command. It also reflects the dire circumstances of the famine, which forces the family to comply with the demands despite their fears. This moment is a turning point that propels the narrative forward, leading to the eventual reconciliation and revelation of Joseph's identity.

for the man told us,
"The man" refers to Joseph, who is unrecognized by his brothers. This anonymity is significant as it allows Joseph to test his brothers' character and repentance. The use of "the man" instead of Joseph's name adds to the dramatic irony, as the reader knows Joseph's identity while the brothers do not. This situation is a type of Christ, where Jesus is often unrecognized by those He came to save.

‘You will not see my face again unless your brother is with you.’”
This condition set by Joseph is crucial for the unfolding of God's plan for Jacob's family. It forces the brothers to confront their past actions and the consequences of selling Joseph into slavery. The phrase "see my face" is a Hebraic expression indicating favor and acceptance, similar to seeking God's face in prayer. The requirement to bring Benjamin is a test of the brothers' integrity and unity, foreshadowing the eventual reconciliation and restoration of the family. This mirrors the biblical theme of redemption and the necessity of coming to God on His terms, paralleling the New Testament call to approach God through Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Judah
One of Jacob's sons, who takes a leadership role among his brothers. In Genesis 43, he pledges to ensure Benjamin's safety on their journey to Egypt.

2. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the family, who is initially reluctant to send his youngest son, Benjamin, to Egypt due to fear of losing him as he lost Joseph.

3. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob, whose presence is required by the Egyptian ruler (Joseph, unbeknownst to his brothers) to prove the brothers' honesty.

4. Joseph
The governor of Egypt, who is actually their brother, though they do not recognize him. He demands to see Benjamin to test his brothers' integrity.

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

Teaching Points

Leadership and Responsibility
Judah's willingness to take responsibility for Benjamin's safety is a model of leadership and accountability. Believers are called to take responsibility for their actions and the well-being of others.

Trust in God's Plan
Jacob's reluctance to send Benjamin reflects a struggle with trust. Christians are encouraged to trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances are uncertain.

Family Dynamics and Reconciliation
The account highlights the complexities of family relationships and the potential for reconciliation. Believers are encouraged to seek peace and restoration in their own families.

Faith in Action
The brothers' journey to Egypt is an act of faith, trusting that God will provide for their needs. Christians are called to step out in faith, trusting in God's provision and guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Judah's pledge to protect Benjamin reflect the qualities of a godly leader, and how can we apply these qualities in our own lives?

2. In what ways does Jacob's fear for Benjamin's safety mirror our own struggles with trusting God, and how can we overcome these fears?

3. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the potential for reconciliation in family relationships, and what steps can we take to foster reconciliation in our own families?

4. What does the brothers' journey to Egypt teach us about faith and reliance on God's provision, and how can we apply this lesson in our daily lives?

5. How do the events in Genesis 43 connect with the broader account of God's plan for Israel, and what does this teach us about God's faithfulness to His promises?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
Provides context for the brothers' first journey to Egypt and Joseph's demand to see Benjamin.

Genesis 44
Continues the account, showing the brothers' return to Egypt with Benjamin and the subsequent testing by Joseph.

Genesis 37
Offers background on Joseph's relationship with his brothers, which sets the stage for the events in Genesis 43.

1 Samuel 17
Highlights the theme of taking responsibility and leadership, as seen in David's willingness to face Goliath, similar to Judah's pledge for Benjamin's safety.