Genesis 44:22

So we said to my lord, 'The boy cannot leave his father. If he were to leave, his father would die.'

Study Bible

We answered
This phrase indicates a response, suggesting a dialogue or conversation. In the context of Genesis 44, the brothers of Joseph are recounting their previous interaction with him. The Hebrew root for "answered" is "עָנָה" (anah), which often implies a thoughtful or considered response. This reflects the gravity of the situation, as the brothers are trying to convey the seriousness of their family dynamics to Joseph, whom they do not yet recognize as their brother.

my lord
The term "my lord" is a respectful address, indicating submission and recognition of authority. In Hebrew, "אֲדֹנִי" (adoni) is used, which is a term of respect and honor. This reflects the brothers' acknowledgment of Joseph's high status in Egypt, even though they are unaware of his true identity. It also highlights the cultural norms of the time, where addressing someone of higher status with such respect was customary.

The boy
Referring to Benjamin, the youngest son of Jacob, this phrase underscores his significance in the narrative. The Hebrew word "הַנַּעַר" (hanar) can mean "boy" or "young man," emphasizing his youth and vulnerability. Benjamin is central to the unfolding drama, as his presence is crucial to the brothers' mission in Egypt and their father's emotional well-being.

cannot leave his father
This phrase highlights the deep bond between Benjamin and Jacob. The Hebrew root "עָזַב" (azab) means "to leave" or "forsake," indicating that Benjamin's departure would be akin to abandonment for Jacob. This underscores the emotional dependency and protective nature Jacob has towards Benjamin, especially after the presumed loss of Joseph.

If he leaves him
The conditional "if" introduces a hypothetical scenario, emphasizing the potential consequences of Benjamin's absence. The Hebrew structure here suggests a cause-and-effect relationship, highlighting the precariousness of the situation. It reflects the brothers' understanding of their father's fragile state and the potential devastation that could ensue.

his father will die
This phrase conveys the dire consequences of Benjamin's absence. The Hebrew word for "die" is "מוּת" (muth), which is a strong term indicating physical death. This stark statement reflects the depth of Jacob's attachment to Benjamin and the emotional toll that losing him would take. It underscores the theme of familial bonds and the lengths to which the brothers are willing to go to protect their family.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Judah
- One of Jacob's sons, who speaks on behalf of his brothers to Joseph, expressing the deep bond between Jacob and Benjamin.

2. Benjamin
- The youngest son of Jacob, deeply loved by his father, Jacob, and a central figure in the brothers' plea to Joseph.

3. Jacob (Israel)
- The father of the twelve tribes of Israel, who is deeply attached to Benjamin after losing Joseph.

4. Joseph
- The governor of Egypt, who is testing his brothers' integrity and repentance by demanding Benjamin's presence.

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

Teaching Points

The Depth of Parental Love
Jacob's love for Benjamin is a powerful example of the deep, protective love a parent has for their child. This love reflects God's love for us, His children.

The Importance of Family Bonds
The account emphasizes the importance of family unity and the lengths to which family members will go to protect one another.

Repentance and Redemption
Joseph's test of his brothers is a journey of repentance and redemption, showing how past wrongs can be addressed and healed.

Trust in God's Plan
Despite the fear and uncertainty, the account encourages trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem dire.

Sacrificial Love
Judah's willingness to take responsibility for Benjamin foreshadows Christ's sacrificial love for humanity.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's love for Benjamin reflect God's love for us, and how can we emulate this love in our relationships?

2. In what ways do the family dynamics in Genesis 44:22 mirror the challenges and blessings of our own family relationships?

3. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers encourage us to seek reconciliation and forgiveness in our lives?

4. What can we learn from Judah's role in this account about taking responsibility and showing sacrificial love?

5. How does trusting in God's plan, as seen in this account, help us navigate our own fears and uncertainties?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42:38
- Jacob's reluctance to send Benjamin to Egypt, fearing harm might come to him, highlights his protective love.

Genesis 37:33-35
- Jacob's grief over Joseph's supposed death, which sets the stage for his attachment to Benjamin.

1 Samuel 18:1-3
- The deep bond between Jonathan and David, similar to the bond between Jacob and Benjamin.

Luke 15:20-24
- The parable of the prodigal son, illustrating a father's deep love and longing for his child.

John 3:16
- God's love for His children, paralleling Jacob's love for Benjamin.