The narrative of the brothers' return to Canaan is a significant episode in the account of Joseph, found in the Book of Genesis. This event occurs after Joseph, who had risen to a position of power in Egypt, tests his brothers to see if they have changed since the time they sold him into slavery. The account is primarily located in Genesis 42-45.

Context and Background

The account unfolds during a severe famine that affects the entire region, including Canaan, where Jacob and his family reside. Jacob sends his sons, except for Benjamin, to Egypt to buy grain. Unbeknownst to them, the Egyptian official they must deal with is their brother Joseph, whom they had sold into slavery years earlier. Joseph recognizes them, but they do not recognize him.

Joseph's Tests

Joseph accuses his brothers of being spies and imprisons them for three days. He then demands that they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, to Egypt to prove their honesty. Simeon is kept as a hostage while the others return to Canaan with grain and the money they had used to pay for it, which Joseph secretly returns to their sacks.

Upon their return, they recount the events to Jacob, who is distressed at the thought of losing Benjamin. However, as the famine persists, Jacob reluctantly agrees to send Benjamin with them back to Egypt, along with gifts and double the money to return what was found in their sacks.

The Second Journey to Egypt

The brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin. Joseph invites them to a meal at his house, where he continues to test them. He orders his steward to fill their sacks with grain and secretly place his silver cup in Benjamin's sack. After they leave, Joseph sends his steward to confront them about the "theft." The brothers are brought back to Joseph, and Judah pleads for Benjamin's release, offering himself as a substitute. This act of selflessness demonstrates a change in the brothers' character.

Joseph Reveals Himself

Moved by Judah's plea, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers. In Genesis 45:4-5 , Joseph says, "I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you." Joseph forgives them, recognizing God's providential hand in the events that led to his position in Egypt.

Return to Canaan with Good News

Joseph instructs his brothers to return to Canaan and bring their father Jacob and their families to Egypt, where they will be provided for during the remaining years of famine. Pharaoh supports Joseph's invitation, offering them the best of the land in Egypt. The brothers return to Canaan with wagons and provisions, sharing the astonishing news with Jacob, who is initially incredulous but eventually convinced and overjoyed.

Significance

The return to Canaan marks a pivotal moment of reconciliation and restoration within Jacob's family. It highlights themes of forgiveness, divine providence, and the transformation of character. Joseph's ability to see God's purpose in his suffering and his willingness to forgive his brothers exemplify a profound faith and trust in God's sovereignty. This episode sets the stage for the migration of Jacob's family to Egypt, which fulfills God's promise to Abraham about his descendants' sojourn in a foreign land.