Genesis 42:22

And Reuben responded, "Didn't I tell you not to sin against the boy? But you would not listen. Now we must account for his blood!"

Study Bible

And Reuben answered them
Reuben, the eldest son of Jacob, often takes a leadership role among his brothers. The Hebrew root for "answered" (עָנָה, 'anah) implies a response or reply, often in a context of dialogue or debate. Reuben's response here is significant as it reflects his earlier attempts to protect Joseph, showing a sense of responsibility and moral awareness. Historically, the firstborn held a position of authority and responsibility, which Reuben attempts to exercise, albeit with limited success.

Did I not tell you
This phrase underscores Reuben's previous warnings to his brothers. The Hebrew verb "tell" (אָמַר, 'amar) is often used in the context of giving advice or commands. Reuben's reminder serves to highlight his foresight and the moral high ground he attempted to maintain. It also reflects the tension and guilt among the brothers, as they recall their past actions against Joseph.

not to sin against the boy?
The word "sin" (חָטָא, chata) in Hebrew conveys the idea of missing the mark or failing to meet a standard. Reuben's use of "sin" indicates a moral and spiritual failure, not just a social or familial one. The term "the boy" (הַיֶּלֶד, hayeled) emphasizes Joseph's vulnerability and innocence, heightening the gravity of their actions. This phrase serves as a reminder of the brothers' betrayal and the ethical implications of their decision.

But you would not listen
The Hebrew verb "listen" (שָׁמַע, shama) implies not just hearing, but obeying or heeding advice. Reuben's lament that his brothers "would not listen" highlights their stubbornness and the consequences of ignoring wise counsel. This reflects a broader biblical theme where failure to listen to righteous guidance leads to sin and its repercussions.

Now we must give an accounting
The phrase "give an accounting" (נִדְרֹשׁ, nidrosh) suggests a reckoning or demand for justice. In Hebrew, it carries the connotation of seeking or inquiring, often used in legal or judicial contexts. This reflects the biblical principle of divine justice, where actions have consequences, and accountability is inevitable. Reuben's words foreshadow the unfolding of God's providential plan and the eventual reconciliation with Joseph.

for his blood
The term "blood" (דָּם, dam) in Hebrew is often associated with life and guilt. In biblical terms, shedding innocent blood is a grave sin that cries out for justice. Reuben's reference to "his blood" underscores the seriousness of their crime against Joseph and the moral weight of their guilt. This phrase serves as a poignant reminder of the sanctity of life and the divine mandate for justice and reconciliation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuben
The eldest son of Jacob, who initially tried to save Joseph from being killed by his brothers. He is now expressing his regret and reminding his brothers of their past sin.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The group of siblings who conspired against Joseph, leading to his being sold into slavery. They are now facing the consequences of their actions as they deal with the famine in Egypt.

3. Joseph
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, he is the central figure in the account. His past suffering and current position in Egypt are pivotal to the unfolding events.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to buy grain during the famine.

5. The Famine
A severe famine affecting the region, driving Joseph's brothers to Egypt for food, setting the stage for their encounter with Joseph.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Sin has lasting consequences, and unrepented actions can lead to guilt and accountability. Reuben's reminder to his brothers highlights the importance of considering the long-term effects of our actions.

The Importance of Listening to Wise Counsel
Reuben's initial advice to spare Joseph was ignored, leading to regret. This teaches the value of heeding wise counsel and the potential consequences of ignoring it.

God's Sovereignty in Redemption
Despite the brothers' sin, God used the situation to fulfill His purposes. This demonstrates God's ability to redeem even the worst situations for His glory and our good.

The Need for Repentance and Reconciliation
The brothers' guilt points to the need for repentance and seeking reconciliation, both with those we have wronged and with God.

Personal Accountability
Each individual is accountable for their actions. Reuben's statement is a reminder that we must all give an account for our deeds, encouraging us to live righteously.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Reuben's response in Genesis 42:22 reflect the concept of personal accountability, and how can this be applied in our daily lives?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the consequences of ignoring wise counsel? Can you think of a situation in your life where you faced similar choices?

3. How does the theme of redemption in Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, even when we face difficult circumstances?

4. What steps can we take to ensure that we listen to and apply wise counsel in our decision-making processes?

5. How can the principle of giving an account for our actions, as seen in Genesis 42:22 and Romans 14:12, influence our behavior and relationships with others?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers, which is the sin Reuben refers to in Genesis 42:22.

Genesis 9:5-6
The principle of accounting for bloodshed, which echoes Reuben's statement about being accountable for Joseph's blood.

Matthew 27:3-4
Judas' remorse after betraying Jesus, similar to the brothers' guilt and Reuben's regret.

Romans 14:12
The concept of giving an account of oneself to God, paralleling the brothers' need to account for their actions.