Genesis 42:37

Then Reuben said to his father, "You may kill my two sons if I fail to bring him back to you. Put him in my care, and I will return him."

Study Bible

Then Reuben said
Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob, often appears as a figure attempting to assert his leadership among his brothers. His name in Hebrew, "Re'uven," means "behold, a son," which reflects his status as the firstborn. Historically, the firstborn held a place of prominence and responsibility, yet Reuben's past actions, such as his sin with Bilhah (Genesis 35:22), had compromised his standing. Here, he seeks to redeem himself by taking responsibility for Benjamin's safety.

to his father
The relationship between Reuben and Jacob is complex, marked by both familial duty and past disappointments. In the patriarchal society of ancient Israel, the father was the head of the family, and his approval was crucial. Reuben's appeal to Jacob underscores the gravity of the situation and his desire to restore trust.

You may kill my two sons
This phrase reflects the seriousness of Reuben's pledge. Offering his own sons as collateral is a hyperbolic expression of commitment, emphasizing the dire circumstances and his desperation to convince Jacob. In the ancient Near Eastern context, such a vow would be seen as a binding and solemn promise, highlighting the weight of familial responsibility.

if I fail to bring him back to you
Reuben's promise is conditional, showing his confidence in fulfilling his duty. The phrase underscores the theme of accountability and the importance of keeping one's word, which is a recurring motif in the Bible. It also reflects the tension and fear within Jacob's family, as they face the prospect of losing another son.

Put him in my care
Reuben's request to take Benjamin under his protection is an assertion of his role as a leader and protector. The Hebrew concept of "care" involves not just physical safety but also moral and spiritual responsibility. This reflects the biblical principle of stewardship, where individuals are entrusted with the well-being of others.

and I will return him
The promise to return Benjamin is a pledge of faithfulness and reliability. In the broader scriptural context, the theme of return or restoration is significant, often symbolizing redemption and reconciliation. Reuben's assurance to bring Benjamin back safely is a foreshadowing of the eventual reconciliation and restoration of Jacob's family, which is a central theme in the Joseph narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuben
The eldest son of Jacob, who offers his own sons as collateral to ensure the safe return of Benjamin from Egypt.

2. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the family, who is hesitant to send his youngest son, Benjamin, to Egypt after losing Joseph.

3. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob, whom the brothers need to take to Egypt to prove their honesty to Joseph, who is now a powerful official there.

4. Joseph
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, he is the brother who has risen to power in Egypt and is testing his brothers' integrity.

5. Egypt
The land where Joseph has become a ruler and where the brothers must go to buy grain during the famine.

Teaching Points

The Weight of Responsibility
Reuben's offer highlights the gravity of taking responsibility for others, especially family members. It challenges us to consider how we take responsibility in our own lives.

The Cost of Desperation
Reuben's extreme offer reflects the desperation of the situation. In times of crisis, we must be cautious about making rash promises or decisions.

Integrity and Trust
The account encourages us to reflect on our integrity and the trust others place in us. Are we trustworthy in our commitments?

Family Dynamics and Leadership
Reuben's role as the eldest son shows the complexities of family leadership and the need for wisdom and discernment in guiding others.

Faith in God's Providence
Despite the dire circumstances, the account reminds us to trust in God's overarching plan and provision, even when the path seems uncertain.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Reuben's offer to Jacob reflect his character and leadership within the family? Compare this with Judah's later actions in Genesis 44.

2. What can we learn from Reuben's willingness to risk his sons' lives about making promises or commitments in times of crisis?

3. How does the theme of responsibility in Genesis 42:37 connect with Jesus' teachings on integrity in the New Testament?

4. In what ways does this passage challenge us to consider our own roles and responsibilities within our families or communities?

5. How can we apply the lessons of trust and providence from this account to our own lives, especially when facing difficult decisions or uncertain futures?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
Provides background on Joseph's relationship with his brothers, including Reuben's attempt to save Joseph from being killed.

Genesis 44
Details Judah's later offer to take Benjamin's place, showing a shift in the brothers' attitudes and responsibility.

Genesis 43:9
Judah's pledge to be surety for Benjamin, contrasting with Reuben's earlier offer.

1 Samuel 1:11
Hannah's vow to dedicate her son to the Lord, showing the seriousness of vows involving children.

Matthew 5:37
Jesus' teaching on letting your 'Yes' be 'Yes,' emphasizing the importance of integrity and truthfulness.