“But if thou wilt not send him, we will not go down: for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.”
Context: To understand Genesis 43:5 better, let’s first review the context. In Genesis 43, we find Jacob and his sons, who were living in Canaan, facing a severe famine. They had already traveled to Egypt once to buy food, and on their first journey, they encountered Joseph, who was now the ruler of Egypt (though they did not recognize him). Joseph had demanded that they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, when they returned. In Genesis 43, Jacob reluctantly agrees to send Benjamin with his other sons, but he expresses his concerns.
Jacob’s hesitation: Jacob’s hesitation to send Benjamin is rooted in the deep love he has for him. Benjamin was Joseph’s only full brother from Rachel, Jacob’s beloved wife. Since Joseph had been sold into slavery and presumed dead, Benjamin held a special place in Jacob’s heart. Jacob feared losing Benjamin as he had lost Joseph, and he was also concerned about the potential dangers or harm that might befall Benjamin in Egypt.
The condition set by Joseph: In verse 5, Jacob’s sons express their concern to their father, reminding him of the condition set by the man (Joseph), whom they did not yet know was their brother. The man in Egypt had made it clear that they would not be allowed to see his face unless they brought Benjamin with them. This was a strategic move by Joseph to ensure the fulfillment of his previous dreams and to test his brothers’ characters.
The brothers’ commitment: Jacob’s sons, in their desperation for food, assure their father that they cannot go back to Egypt without Benjamin. They emphasize the condition set by the man and declare that they will not go down to Egypt if Benjamin does not accompany them. This statement reveals their understanding of the gravity of the situation and their willingness to take responsibility for Benjamin’s safety.
Lessons and applications:
- Loyalty and responsibility: The brothers’ commitment to their father and to one another demonstrates a sense of loyalty and responsibility. They are willing to face the difficulties and risks involved to fulfill their obligations and protect their family.
- God’s providence: Even though the brothers were unaware of Joseph’s true identity at this point, God was working behind the scenes to orchestrate events for a greater purpose. God’s plan was to reconcile Joseph with his family and provide for them during the famine. This reminds us that God is in control even when we cannot see His hand at work.
- Honoring commitments: Joseph had set a condition for their return, and the brothers understood the importance of fulfilling that condition. This teaches us the significance of honoring our commitments, whether to God or to others, and the consequences of disregarding them.
- Testing and growth: Joseph’s actions were not only aimed at testing his brothers’ characters but also at fostering growth and transformation within them. Similarly, God allows us to go through tests and challenges to refine our character, deepen our faith, and bring about growth in our lives.
Genesis 43:5 reveals the commitment of Jacob’s sons to fulfill the condition set by Joseph, even in the face of their father’s hesitation. This passage emphasizes loyalty, responsibility, and the sovereignty of God’s providence in working through difficult circumstances.
