“And Reuben spake unto his father, saying, Slay my two sons, if I bring him not to thee: deliver him into my hand, and I will bring him to thee again.”
In this verse, we find Reuben, the eldest son of Jacob (also known as Israel), speaking to his father regarding the situation that arose when Joseph, their brother, was held captive in Egypt. To provide context, earlier in Genesis, Joseph’s brothers had sold him into slavery out of jealousy, and he eventually ended up as a prominent figure in Egypt.
Now, Joseph, who had risen to a high position in Egypt, was testing his brothers’ character by putting them through various trials. Joseph, unrecognized by his brothers, accused them of being spies and detained Simeon while demanding that they bring their younger brother Benjamin to Egypt.
In the midst of this tense situation, Reuben speaks to his father, Jacob, offering a pledge of his own two sons’ lives as a guarantee for Benjamin’s safety. Reuben essentially tells Jacob that if he doesn’t bring Benjamin back from Egypt, Jacob can kill Reuben’s two sons in retribution.
Reuben’s offer was likely made out of desperation and a desire to protect Benjamin. However, it should be noted that this proposal was not carried out, and no harm came to Reuben’s sons. Instead, Jacob refused the suggestion, expressing his reluctance to send Benjamin to Egypt due to the loss of Joseph, his beloved son from Rachel.
This verse presents an important turning point in the story of Joseph and his brothers. It reveals the deep concern and love that Reuben had for his father and younger brother, even to the extent of offering the lives of his own sons. It highlights the complexity of the relationships within Jacob’s family and the weight of the events unfolding around them.
Ultimately, this verse reminds us of the importance of familial bonds and the sacrifices some are willing to make for the well-being of their loved ones.
