“And told him, saying, Joseph is yet alive, and he is governor over all the land of Egypt. And Jacob’s heart fainted, for he believed them not.”
In this verse, we find a significant moment in the story of Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and eventually rose to a position of great authority in Egypt. At this point in the narrative, Joseph’s brothers had come to Egypt seeking food during a severe famine, not realizing that the powerful ruler they were dealing with was their own brother, whom they had betrayed.
Joseph is yet alive: The brothers had carried with them the news that Joseph, whom they had presumed dead, was actually alive. This revelation must have been shocking and filled with mixed emotions for Jacob, their father, who had mourned the loss of his beloved son for many years. The news of Joseph’s survival and prosperity would have been both unexpected and joyous.
Governor over all the land of Egypt: Jacob’s sons also informed him that Joseph had risen to a position of great authority in Egypt, being appointed as the governor over all the land. This information further emphasized Joseph’s status and power, and it would have been difficult for Jacob to comprehend the magnitude of the change in Joseph’s circumstances.
Jacob’s heart fainted, for he believed them not: Despite the assurance of his sons, Jacob found it difficult to believe their words. The years of grief and the weight of his sorrow had likely caused him to build a wall of skepticism and disbelief. The sudden revelation of Joseph’s existence and exalted position overwhelmed Jacob to the point where his heart fainted, reflecting his struggle to accept the truth due to its astonishing nature.
This verse serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and providence, even in the midst of challenging circumstances. It demonstrates the extent to which Jacob’s heart had been burdened with grief and the difficulty he faced in embracing the incredible news brought by his sons. It also highlights the eventual reconciliation and restoration of Joseph’s family, which plays a significant role in the unfolding of God’s plan for the nation of Israel.
