◄ Genesis 45 ►
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Joseph Reveals His Identity 1Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, “Send everyone away from me!” So none of them were with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers. 2But he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh’s household soon heard of it. 3Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But they were unable to answer him, because they were terrified in his presence. 4Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come near me.” And they did so. “I am Joseph, your brother,” he said, “the one you sold into Egypt! 5And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves that you sold me into this place, because it was to save lives that God sent me before you. 6For the famine has covered the land these two years, and there will be five more years without plowing or harvesting. 7God sent me before you to preserve you as a remnant on the earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance.a 8Therefore it was not you who sent me here, but God, who has made me a father to Pharaoh—lord of all his household and ruler over all the land of Egypt. Joseph Sends for His Father 9Now return quickly to my father and tell him, ‘This is what your son Joseph says: God has made me lord of all Egypt. Come down to me without delay. 10You shall settle in the land of Goshen and be near me—you and your children and grandchildren, your flocks and herds, and everything you own. 11And there I will provide for you, because there will be five more years of famine. Otherwise, you and your household and everything you own will come to destitution.’ 12Behold! You and my brother Benjamin can see that I, Joseph, am the one speaking with you. 13Tell my father about all my splendor in Egypt and everything you have seen. And bring my father down here quickly.” 14Then Joseph threw his arms around his brother Benjamin and wept, and Benjamin wept as they embraced. 15Joseph kissed each of his brothers as he wept over them. And afterward his brothers talked with him. Pharaoh Invites Jacob to Egypt 16When the news reached Pharaoh’s house that Joseph’s brothers had come, Pharaoh and his servants were pleased. 17Pharaoh said to Joseph, “Tell your brothers, ‘Do as follows: Load your animals and return to the land of Canaan. 18Then bring your father and your families and return to me. I will give you the best of the land of Egypt, and you shall eat from the fat of the land.’ 19You are also directed to tell them: ‘Take wagons from the land of Egypt for your young children and your wives, and bring your father and come back. 20But pay no regard to your belongings, for the best of all the land of Egypt is yours.’” 21So the sons of Israel did as they were told. Joseph gave them wagons as Pharaoh had instructed, and he also gave them provisions for their journey. 22He gave new garments to each of them, but to Benjamin he gave three hundred shekels of silverb and five sets of clothes. 23And he sent to his father the following: ten donkeys loaded with the best of Egypt, and ten female donkeys loaded with grain and bread and provisions for his father’s journey. 24Then Joseph sent his brothers on their way, and as they were leaving, he said to them, “Do not quarrel on the way!” The Revival of Jacob 25So the brothers went up out of Egypt and came to their father Jacob in the land of Canaan. 26“Joseph is still alive,” they said, “and he is ruler over all the land of Egypt!” But Jacob was stunned, for he did not believe them. 27However, when they relayed all that Joseph had told them, and when he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him back, the spirit of their father Jacob was revived. 28“Enough!” declared Israel. “My son Joseph is still alive! I will go to see him before I die.” Footnotes: 7 a Or and to keep you alive as a great band of survivors 22 b 300 shekels is approximately 7.5 pounds or 3.4 kilograms of silver. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Genesis 45 Summary Joseph Reveals His Identity Verses 1–3 – Joseph Reveals His Identity Joseph can no longer restrain his emotions. He dismisses every Egyptian attendant, weeps loudly, and declares to his stunned brothers, “I am Joseph!” Terror seizes them, but Joseph’s heartfelt tears and repeated claim break through their fear. Verses 4–8 – God’s Sovereign Purpose Drawing them close, Joseph reframes their crime: “It was not you who sent me here, but God.” Three times he emphasizes divine initiative—God sent, God made, God placed—turning their guilt into awe at God’s plan to preserve life during the famine. Verses 9–15 – Invitation to Egypt Joseph commissions his brothers: hurry, tell Jacob that Joseph is alive and honored, then move the whole family to Goshen. He promises nourishment for the remaining five years of famine and embraces Benjamin and the others, sealing reconciliation with tears and conversation. Verses 16–20 – Pharaoh’s Provision Pharaoh happily confirms Joseph’s offer, sending wagons, provisions, and the promise of “the best of all Egypt.” The generosity of Egypt’s king underscores the favor resting on Joseph and, by extension, on Israel’s family. Verses 21–24 – Gifts and a Gentle Warning The brothers depart laden with grain, clothing, and Benjamin’s exceptional portion. Joseph’s parting words, “Do not quarrel on the way,” recognize lingering guilt yet encourage unity as they carry news to their father. Verses 25–28 – Jacob’s Amazement Arriving in Canaan, the brothers announce, “Joseph is still alive!” Jacob’s heart stops, then revives when he sees the Egyptian wagons. “Enough!” he exclaims. Faith reignites as he resolves to go and see his son before dying. In this emotionally charged chapter, Joseph reveals his true identity to his brothers. He forgives them and acknowledges the divine hand that guided his journey, using his newfound power to protect his family from famine. Pharaoh approves of the reunion, and Jacob learns that his son is alive and ruling Egypt. Historical Setting Genesis 45 occurs during a prolonged regional famine (Genesis 41:54-57). Egyptian inscriptions from the Middle Kingdom describe Nile failures and widespread hunger, matching the biblical portrait. The Hyksos period, when Semitic peoples lived in the eastern Nile Delta, provides a credible backdrop for Israelites settling in Goshen. Pharaoh’s free use of chariots and wagons (v. 19) aligns with Egyptian technological advances recorded in wall reliefs from the 18th Dynasty. Archaeological Insights • Tell el-Dabʿa (ancient Avaris) reveals a Semitic settlement with multicolored coat murals and Asiatics in positions of authority—reminders that an outsider like Joseph could rise to power. • Storage complexes unearthed in the Faiyum basin mirror Joseph’s grain-storage program (Genesis 41:48-49). • A canal inscription from Pharaoh Amenemhat III speaks of redirecting water to prevent famine, echoing Joseph’s irrigation efforts. Divine Providence and Human Responsibility Genesis 45:5-8 twice states, “God sent me ahead of you.” Human wrongdoing (selling Joseph) becomes the vehicle for divine rescue (Acts 7:9-10). The theme reappears in Genesis 50:20, Romans 8:28, and Isaiah 55:8-9, teaching that God weaves human actions—good or evil—into His redemptive tapestry. Forgiveness and Reconciliation Joseph’s forgiveness is immediate and practical: he meets needs, offers safe haven, and speaks kindly (vv. 10-11, 15). Jesus later commands the same spirit (Matthew 6:14, Luke 23:34). Joseph’s instruction, “Do not quarrel,” shows wisdom: guilt often erupts in blame. Reconciliation must guard against reopening old wounds (Ephesians 4:31-32). Joseph and Jesus • Both were betrayed for silver (Genesis 37:28; Matthew 26:15). • Both became saviors through suffering (Genesis 45:7; Hebrews 2:10). • Joseph reveals himself privately to his brothers before manifesting publicly, foreshadowing Christ’s future revelation to Israel (Zechariah 12:10; Romans 11:26). • Provision of bread in famine (Genesis 47:12) parallels Jesus as the Bread of Life (John 6:35). Family Leadership and Spiritual Headship Joseph respects Jacob’s authority, sending word rather than acting unilaterally (v. 9). Pharaoh honors Jacob as patriarch (Genesis 47:7-10). Scripture upholds parental leadership (Exodus 20:12; Ephesians 6:1-3) and depicts it as covenantal, guiding families into God’s promises. God’s Covenant Faithfulness The move to Egypt sounds risky, yet God had foretold it (Genesis 15:13-14). Joseph’s invitation sets up Israel’s transition from a family to a nation. Later plagues and the Exodus will display God’s power to keep His oath to Abraham (Exodus 2:24). Psalm 105:16-22 traces this very path, naming Joseph as the divine instrument. Practical Applications for Today • Trust God’s unseen plan when wronged; He can repurpose pain for rescue. • Forgive actively—meet needs, speak kindly, and urge peace. • Leadership involves both provision and submission to higher authority. • Generosity toward outsiders, modeled by Pharaoh, can magnify God’s blessing. • Celebrate testimonies that revive weary hearts, just as Jacob’s spirit revived at tangible evidence of Joseph’s life. Key Cross-References Genesis 41:54-57; Psalm 105:16-22; Acts 7:9-14; Romans 8:28; Genesis 50:20; John 6:35; Zechariah 12:10; Hebrews 2:10 Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and tenderhearted to one another, forgiving each other just as in Christ God forgave you. Matthew 6:14-15 For if you forgive men their trespasses, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive yours. Teaching Points Joseph's Revelation Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, saying, I am Joseph! Is my father still alive? (Genesis 45:3). This moment is filled with emotion and shock, highlighting the power of truth and reconciliation. God's Sovereignty Joseph acknowledges God's hand in his journey, stating, God sent me ahead of you to preserve you as a remnant on the earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance (Genesis 45:7). This underscores the theme of divine providence. Forgiveness and Reconciliation Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers is profound. He reassures them, And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you (Genesis 45:5). Provision and Restoration Joseph instructs his brothers to bring their father and families to Egypt, promising them the best of the land (Genesis 45:18). This act of provision reflects God's abundant grace and restoration. Practical Applications Embrace Forgiveness Like Joseph, we are called to forgive those who have wronged us, trusting in God's greater plan. Recognize God's Hand In times of trial, seek to understand how God might be working through your circumstances for a greater purpose. Reconcile Relationships Take steps to mend broken relationships, offering grace and seeking peace. Trust in God's Provision Have faith that God will provide for your needs, even in unexpected ways. People 1. Joseph Joseph is the central figure in this chapter. He is the son of Jacob and Rachel, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become the governor of Egypt. In Genesis 45, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, forgives them, and explains that God sent him to Egypt to preserve life during the famine. The Hebrew name "Yosef" (יוֹסֵף) means "He will add," reflecting his role in adding to the survival and prosperity of his family. 2. Joseph's Brothers The brothers of Joseph, who initially sold him into slavery out of jealousy. In this chapter, they are confronted with Joseph's true identity and are initially dismayed but later reconciled with him. The Hebrew term for brothers, "ach" (אַח), signifies their familial bond despite past transgressions. 3. Pharaoh The ruler of Egypt, who is not directly quoted in this chapter but is mentioned as having given Joseph authority over the land. Pharaoh's support is crucial for Joseph's plan to bring his family to Egypt. The term "Pharaoh" (פַּרְעֹה) is a title for the king of Egypt, derived from the Egyptian word "per-aa," meaning "great house." 4. Jacob (Israel) Although not present in the scene, Jacob is Joseph's father, to whom Joseph sends a message inviting him to come to Egypt. Jacob is also known as Israel, a name given to him after wrestling with God, meaning "he struggles with God" (יִשְׂרָאֵל). 5. Benjamin Joseph's younger brother, the only other son of Rachel. Benjamin is particularly dear to Joseph, and Joseph shows special affection towards him during the reunion. The name "Benjamin" (בִּנְיָמִין) means "son of the right hand" or "son of the south." 6. Servants of Pharaoh These individuals are mentioned as part of the context in which Joseph's brothers are instructed to return to Canaan and bring their family to Egypt. They represent the Egyptian court's involvement in the unfolding events. Places 1. Egypt Egypt is the central location in Genesis 45, where Joseph has risen to power as the governor. It is the land where Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers and where he invites his family to come and live during the remaining years of famine. The Hebrew term for Egypt is "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim), which is often associated with the idea of a place of distress or narrowness, reflecting the Israelites' later experiences there. 2. Goshen Although not explicitly mentioned in Genesis 45, Goshen is implied as the region in Egypt where Joseph intends for his family to settle. In subsequent chapters, Goshen is identified as the area suitable for their livestock and where they would be near Joseph. The Hebrew name "גֹּשֶׁן" (Goshen) suggests a place of comfort and provision, contrasting with the broader Egyptian context. Events 1. Joseph Reveals His Identity Joseph, unable to contain his emotions, orders everyone to leave the room except his brothers. He then reveals his identity to them, saying, "I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?" His brothers are initially dismayed and unable to respond (Genesis 45:1-3). 2. Joseph's Assurance and God's Plan Joseph reassures his brothers, telling them not to be distressed or angry with themselves for selling him into slavery. He explains that God sent him ahead of them to preserve life, highlighting the divine purpose behind his journey to Egypt (Genesis 45:4-8). 3. Invitation to Settle in Egypt Joseph instructs his brothers to return to their father, Jacob, and tell him about Joseph's position in Egypt. He invites Jacob and the entire family to come to Egypt and settle in the region of Goshen, where they will be provided for during the remaining years of famine (Genesis 45:9-11). 4. Emotional Reunion Joseph embraces his brother Benjamin and weeps, and then he kisses all his brothers and weeps over them. This emotional reunion marks the reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers (Genesis 45:14-15). 5. Pharaoh's Approval and Generosity Pharaoh hears about Joseph's brothers and is pleased. He offers them the best of the land of Egypt and provides them with wagons and provisions for their journey back to Canaan to bring their father and families to Egypt (Genesis 45:16-20). 6. Brothers Return to Canaan Joseph gives his brothers carts, provisions, and changes of clothes. He sends additional gifts to his father, including donkeys loaded with the best products of Egypt. The brothers then depart for Canaan to bring Jacob to Egypt (Genesis 45:21-24). 7. Jacob's Reaction Upon hearing the news that Joseph is alive and ruling over Egypt, Jacob is initially stunned and does not believe them. However, when he sees the wagons sent by Joseph, his spirit revives, and he expresses his desire to see Joseph before he dies (Genesis 45:25-28). Lessons from Genesis 45 1. The Power of Forgiveness In Genesis 45, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, who had sold him into slavery. Instead of seeking revenge, Joseph forgives them, saying, "Do not be distressed or angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you" (Genesis 45:5). This powerful act of forgiveness teaches us that letting go of past grievances can lead to healing and restoration, both for ourselves and for those who have wronged us. 2. God's Sovereign Plan Joseph's journey from the pit to the palace is a testament to God's sovereign plan. Despite the hardships he faced, Joseph acknowledges, "God sent me before you to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance" (Genesis 45:7). This reminds us that even when life seems chaotic, God is orchestrating events for a greater purpose. 3. Reconciliation Brings Joy When Joseph reveals himself to his brothers, the reunion is filled with emotion and joy. "He kissed all his brothers and wept over them. And afterward his brothers talked with him" (Genesis 45:15). Reconciliation can transform relationships and bring profound joy, highlighting the importance of seeking peace and unity with others. 4. Provision in Times of Need Joseph's position in Egypt allows him to provide for his family during a severe famine. He tells his brothers, "I will provide for you there, because five years of famine are still to come" (Genesis 45:11). This illustrates how God can use us to meet the needs of others, encouraging us to be generous and compassionate. 5. The Importance of Family Joseph's story emphasizes the significance of family bonds. Despite the betrayal he experienced, Joseph's love for his family remains strong. He urges his brothers to bring their father to Egypt, ensuring their well-being. This teaches us to cherish and nurture our family relationships, even in difficult times. 6. Trust in God's Timing Joseph's rise to power did not happen overnight. It was a process that required patience and trust in God's timing. "So it was not you who sent me here, but God" (Genesis 45:8). This encourages us to trust that God's timing is perfect, even when we cannot see the full picture. 7. The Role of Leadership Joseph's leadership in Egypt is marked by wisdom and integrity. He uses his position to save many lives, demonstrating that true leadership involves serving others and making decisions that honor God. This challenges us to lead with humility and purpose in our own spheres of influence. 8. Embracing God's Purpose Joseph's understanding of his purpose is clear: "God has made me lord of all Egypt" (Genesis 45:9). Recognizing and embracing the purpose God has for our lives can bring clarity and direction, motivating us to live intentionally and faithfully. 9. The Impact of a Changed Heart The transformation in Joseph's brothers is evident as they express remorse and seek forgiveness. This change of heart is crucial for reconciliation and healing. It reminds us that genuine repentance can lead to restored relationships and a renewed sense of peace. 10. Hope in God's Promises Joseph's story is a testament to the hope found in God's promises. Despite the trials he faced, Joseph remained steadfast in his faith, trusting that God would fulfill His promises. This encourages us to hold onto hope, knowing that God's promises are true and will come to pass in His perfect timing. Topics 1. Joseph Reveals His Identity In Genesis 45, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers. After testing them, Joseph can no longer contain his emotions and declares, "I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?" (Genesis 45:3). The Hebrew word for "reveal" (נִגְלָה, niglah) emphasizes the unveiling of truth and identity. 2. God's Sovereignty in Joseph's Journey Joseph reassures his brothers that it was God's plan for him to be in Egypt, saying, "God sent me ahead of you to preserve you as a remnant on the earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance" (Genesis 45:7). The Hebrew term for "sent" (שָׁלַח, shalach) underscores the divine purpose and mission behind Joseph's trials. 3. Provision for Jacob's Family Joseph instructs his brothers to bring their father Jacob and their families to Egypt, promising them provision during the famine: "You shall dwell in the land of Goshen and be near me—you and your children and grandchildren, your flocks and herds, and everything you own" (Genesis 45:10). The Hebrew word for "provision" (כִּלְכָּל, kilkal) highlights the sustenance and care provided by God through Joseph. 4. Pharaoh's Favor and Generosity Pharaoh hears of Joseph's family and offers them the best of the land: "The best of all the land of Egypt will be yours" (Genesis 45:20). The Egyptian ruler's favor reflects God's providence and the fulfillment of His promises to Abraham's descendants. 5. Reconciliation and Forgiveness Joseph's emotional reunion with his brothers is marked by forgiveness and reconciliation: "And he kissed all his brothers and wept over them" (Genesis 45:15). The Hebrew root for "forgive" (סָלַח, salach) is implicit in Joseph's actions, demonstrating a restoration of broken relationships. 6. Jacob's Revival and Hope Upon hearing the news of Joseph's survival and position in Egypt, Jacob's spirit is revived: "The spirit of their father Jacob revived" (Genesis 45:27). The Hebrew word for "revived" (חָיָה, chayah) signifies a renewal of life and hope, as Jacob prepares to see his beloved son again. Themes 1. Revelation and Reconciliation In Genesis 45, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers, leading to a powerful moment of reconciliation. This theme highlights the transformative power of forgiveness and the restoration of broken relationships. Joseph's declaration, "I am Joseph, your brother, whom you sold into Egypt" (Genesis 45:4), underscores the Hebrew root "יָדַע" (yada), meaning "to know," as Joseph makes himself known to his brothers in a profound way. 2. Divine Providence Joseph emphasizes God's sovereignty in the events that transpired, stating, "God sent me before you to preserve life" (Genesis 45:5). This theme reflects the belief in divine providence, where God orchestrates events for a greater purpose. The Hebrew word "שָׁלַח" (shalach), meaning "to send," is pivotal here, indicating God's active role in sending Joseph ahead to Egypt. 3. Forgiveness and Mercy Joseph's willingness to forgive his brothers, despite their betrayal, illustrates the theme of forgiveness and mercy. He reassures them, "And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves for selling me here" (Genesis 45:5). This act of grace mirrors the Christian call to forgive others as God forgives. 4. Family Restoration The reunion of Joseph with his brothers and the invitation to bring their father Jacob to Egypt signifies the restoration of family ties. Joseph instructs, "You shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near me" (Genesis 45:10). The Hebrew root "קָרַב" (qarav), meaning "to draw near," highlights the closeness and unity restored within the family. 5. Provision and Sustenance Joseph provides for his family during the famine, ensuring their survival. He promises, "I will provide for you there, for there are still five years of famine to come" (Genesis 45:11). This theme underscores God's provision through Joseph, aligning with the Hebrew concept of "חָיָה" (chayah), meaning "to live" or "to sustain life." 6. Joy and Celebration The chapter concludes with a sense of joy and celebration as Pharaoh and the Egyptians hear of Joseph's family reunion. Joseph's brothers return to Canaan with good news, and Jacob's spirit is revived. This theme is encapsulated in the phrase, "The spirit of their father Jacob revived" (Genesis 45:27), reflecting the Hebrew root "חָיָה" (chayah), which also conveys revival and renewal. Prayer Points Pray for the strength to forgive those who have wronged you, just as Joseph forgave his brothers. Ask God to reveal His purpose in your current circumstances and to help you trust in His plan. Seek God's guidance in reconciling broken relationships and restoring peace. Thank God for His provision and ask for faith to trust in His continued care and guidance. Answering Tough Questions 1. How does Joseph’s claim that God orchestrated his enslavement (Genesis 45:5,8) reconcile with human free will and moral responsibility? 2. Is there any archaeological evidence confirming a Hebrew slave rising to second-in-command in ancient Egypt (Genesis 45)? 3. Why does the biblical account mention widespread famine, yet no contemporary Egyptian records confirm such an event (Genesis 45:6,11)? 4. How do we reconcile Joseph’s rapid political ascent with known Egyptian social and dynastic structures (Genesis 45)? 5. If Joseph’s family migrated so readily to Egypt, why is there scant extrabiblical evidence of such an Israelite relocation (Genesis 45:9–11)? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. Why does Joseph ask all his attendants to leave before revealing his identity to his brothers? 2. What is the significance of Joseph's revelation to his brothers? 3. How does Joseph interpret the events leading up to his position in Egypt? 4. What do Joseph's words reveal about his understanding of God's sovereignty? 5. How do Joseph's brothers respond to his revelation, and why? 6. What is the significance of Joseph inviting his family to live in Egypt, particularly in the land of Goshen? 7. How does Pharaoh's reaction to the arrival of Joseph's brothers affect the unfolding narrative? 8. Why does Joseph give more gifts to Benjamin than his other brothers? 9. What does the news of Joseph's survival mean for Jacob, both personally and for his family? 10. How might you have reacted if you were in Jacob's position hearing about Joseph's survival and his rise to power? 11. In what ways does Joseph model forgiveness and how can this influence our behavior in similar situations? 12. How does this chapter illustrate God's providential care for His people? 13. Joseph chooses to see his past sufferings as part of God's plan. How might this perspective influence our understanding of personal hardships? 14. How does this chapter highlight the importance of family ties and reconciliation? 15. Joseph forgives his brothers for their grave betrayal. How does this relate to the New Testament's teachings on forgiveness? 16. What lessons can we draw from the brothers' journey back to Canaan, especially from Joseph's advice not to quarrel along the way? 17. What might Joseph's words about God sending him ahead of his brothers teach us about the purpose of trials in our lives? 18. How would you handle a situation where you have the power to confront those who have wronged you? 19. What does the transformation of Joseph's brothers tell us about change and repentance? 20. How does this chapter challenge us to consider God's role in our personal lives and in the broader narrative of history? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions