Genesis 44:2

Put my cup, the silver one, in the mouth of the youngest one's sack, along with the silver for his grain." So the steward did as Joseph had instructed.

Study Bible

Put my cup, the silver one,
The cup mentioned here is significant, not just as a valuable object, but as a symbol of Joseph's authority and status in Egypt. Silver, often associated with wealth and purity, underscores the importance of the item. In ancient Egyptian culture, such a cup could be used for divination, a practice Joseph was accused of using (Genesis 44:5). This sets the stage for testing his brothers' integrity and repentance.

in the mouth of the youngest one’s sack,
The youngest brother, Benjamin, is central to the narrative. His position as the youngest and most beloved by Jacob mirrors Joseph's former status in the family. This act of placing the cup in Benjamin's sack is a deliberate test of the brothers' loyalty and honesty. It recalls the earlier betrayal of Joseph, as the brothers must now decide whether to abandon Benjamin or protect him.

along with the silver for his grain.”
The inclusion of silver for grain payment highlights the theme of providence and God's provision. It also serves as a test of the brothers' honesty, as they had previously returned the silver found in their sacks (Genesis 42:25-28). This repetition emphasizes the importance of integrity and the consequences of past actions.

So the steward did as Joseph had instructed.
The steward's obedience to Joseph's command reflects Joseph's authority and the trust placed in him by Pharaoh. This act sets in motion the unfolding of God's plan for reconciliation and redemption within Jacob's family. It also foreshadows the ultimate revelation of Joseph's identity and the fulfillment of his dreams (Genesis 37:5-11), which were divinely inspired and prophetic.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The governor of Egypt, who orchestrates the test of his brothers by placing his silver cup in Benjamin's sack.

2. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob, who is unknowingly implicated in the theft of Joseph's cup.

3. Joseph's Steward
The servant who carries out Joseph's instructions to place the cup in Benjamin's sack.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where this event takes place.

5. Jacob's Sons
The brothers of Joseph, who are being tested to see if they have changed since selling Joseph into slavery.

Teaching Points

Testing and Transformation
Joseph's test of his brothers is a means to reveal their character and transformation. In our lives, God may allow tests to refine and reveal our true nature.

The Role of Conscience
The brothers' reaction to the accusation of theft can be seen as a reflection of their guilty conscience from past sins. This reminds us of the importance of a clear conscience before God and others.

Divine Providence
Joseph's actions, though seemingly harsh, are part of God's larger plan for reconciliation and the preservation of Jacob's family. Trusting in God's providence can help us see beyond immediate circumstances.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
The unfolding account of Joseph and his brothers is a powerful account of forgiveness and reconciliation, encouraging us to seek healing in our own relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's test of his brothers in Genesis 44:2 relate to their past actions, and what does this reveal about the nature of repentance and change?

2. In what ways can we see God's providence at work in the events of Genesis 44, and how can this encourage us in our own lives?

3. How does the theme of conscience play a role in this passage, and what can we learn about maintaining a clear conscience before God?

4. Compare the reconciliation process in Genesis 44 with the Parable of the Prodigal Son. What similarities and differences do you observe, and what lessons can we draw from both accounts?

5. Reflect on a time when you faced a test or trial that revealed your character. How did you respond, and what did you learn about yourself and your relationship with God?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph's brothers selling him into slavery, which sets the stage for the events in Genesis 44.

Genesis 42-43
The earlier interactions between Joseph and his brothers during the famine, highlighting the ongoing test of their character.

Exodus 20:15
The commandment against stealing, which is relevant to the accusation of theft in this passage.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which also deals with themes of forgiveness and reconciliation among family members.