Genesis 42:3

So ten of Joseph's brothers went down to buy grain from Egypt.

Study Bible

So ten of Joseph’s brothers
This phrase introduces the action of Joseph's brothers, emphasizing the number "ten." In Hebrew, the word for "ten" is "עֲשָׂרָה" (asarah), which often symbolizes completeness or a quorum in biblical texts. The number ten here is significant as it represents the majority of Jacob's sons, excluding Benjamin, who was kept back by Jacob. This decision reflects Jacob's protective nature over Benjamin, the only remaining son of his beloved wife Rachel, after he believed Joseph to be dead. The brothers' journey marks a pivotal moment in the narrative, setting the stage for the fulfillment of Joseph's earlier dreams and God's providential plan.

went down
The phrase "went down" is translated from the Hebrew "יָרַד" (yarad), which literally means to descend. This is not just a geographical movement from Canaan to Egypt, but also carries a spiritual and emotional connotation. Egypt, often seen as a place of trial and testing in the Bible, represents a descent into a place of potential danger and moral challenge. The brothers' journey "down" to Egypt foreshadows the trials they will face and the eventual redemption and reconciliation that will occur through God's sovereign plan.

to buy grain
The act of buying grain highlights the dire circumstances that have befallen Jacob's family due to the widespread famine. The Hebrew word for "grain" is "שֶׁבֶר" (sheber), which can also mean "provision" or "sustenance." This reflects the physical need driving the brothers' journey, but also hints at a deeper spiritual hunger and need for reconciliation within the family. The famine serves as a catalyst for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan, as it forces the brothers to seek sustenance in Egypt, where they will unknowingly encounter Joseph.

from Egypt
Egypt, in Hebrew "מִצְרַיִם" (Mitzrayim), is a land of both refuge and bondage throughout biblical history. It is a place where God's people often find themselves in times of need, yet it also represents a land of idolatry and oppression. The brothers' journey to Egypt is laden with irony, as it is the very place where they sold Joseph into slavery. This return to Egypt signifies a full circle in God's providential plan, where what was meant for evil will ultimately be used for good (Genesis 50:20). Egypt becomes the backdrop for the unfolding drama of forgiveness, restoration, and the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham's descendants.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph's Brothers
The ten brothers of Joseph, excluding Benjamin, who travel to Egypt to buy grain during a severe famine. They are the sons of Jacob (Israel) and are part of the twelve tribes of Israel.

2. Egypt
A powerful and prosperous nation during this time, Egypt becomes a place of refuge and provision due to Joseph's leadership and God's providence. It is where Joseph has risen to power as second-in-command under Pharaoh.

3. Famine
A severe famine affects the entire region, prompting Jacob to send his sons to Egypt to buy grain. This famine is part of God's larger plan to reunite Joseph with his family and preserve the lineage of Israel.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Trials
The famine, though a trial, is used by God to fulfill His purposes. Believers can trust that God is in control, even in difficult circumstances.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The journey of Joseph's brothers to Egypt sets the stage for eventual reconciliation. This encourages believers to seek forgiveness and restoration in broken relationships.

Providence and Provision
God's provision through Joseph in Egypt reminds us that He provides for our needs. We are called to trust in His provision and timing.

Faith in Action
The brothers' journey to Egypt required action and obedience. Similarly, faith often requires us to step out and act, trusting in God's guidance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the journey of Joseph's brothers to Egypt reflect God's larger plan for the nation of Israel?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in the midst of the famine described in Genesis 42:3?

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

4. What lessons can we learn about God's provision from Joseph's leadership in Egypt, and how can we apply these lessons to our current circumstances?

5. How does the account of Joseph's brothers traveling to Egypt connect with the broader account of God's faithfulness throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph's brothers selling him into slavery, which sets the stage for their journey to Egypt. This connection highlights themes of betrayal and redemption.

Genesis 41
Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and his interpretation of Pharaoh's dreams, which leads to the preparation for the famine. This demonstrates God's sovereignty and provision.

Acts 7
Stephen's speech before the Sanhedrin, where he recounts the history of Israel, including Joseph's account, emphasizing God's faithfulness and the unfolding of His plan.