Genesis 43:14

May God Almighty grant you mercy before the man, that he may release your other brother along with Benjamin. As for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved."

Study Bible

May God Almighty
The phrase "God Almighty" is translated from the Hebrew "El Shaddai," a name that emphasizes God's ultimate power and sovereignty. This name is often associated with God's ability to fulfill His promises and provide for His people. In the context of Genesis, it reflects Jacob's reliance on God's omnipotence to protect and guide his sons as they return to Egypt. Historically, "El Shaddai" is a name that would have been familiar to the patriarchs, signifying a deep trust in God's covenantal faithfulness.

grant you mercy
The Hebrew word for "mercy" here is "rachamim," which conveys a deep sense of compassion and loving-kindness. Jacob is appealing to God's compassionate nature, hoping that this divine mercy will influence the Egyptian ruler's heart. This plea for mercy underscores the biblical theme of God's grace being necessary for human survival and success, especially in times of distress.

before the man
"The man" refers to Joseph, who is the governor of Egypt, though his brothers do not yet recognize him. This phrase highlights the human element in the unfolding divine plan. Joseph, unbeknownst to his brothers, is the instrument through which God will bring about the preservation of Jacob's family. The historical context here is significant, as it reflects the complex interplay between divine providence and human agency.

that he may release your other brother and Benjamin to you
Jacob's concern for the release of his sons, particularly Benjamin, reflects the familial bonds and the importance of kinship in ancient Near Eastern culture. The mention of "your other brother" refers to Simeon, who was held in Egypt as a guarantee of the brothers' return. This plea for release is not just a request for physical freedom but also a restoration of family unity, which is a recurring theme in Genesis.

As for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved
This expression of resignation reveals Jacob's acceptance of potential loss, echoing a theme of surrender to God's will. The Hebrew word for "bereaved" is "shakol," which conveys a deep sense of loss and mourning. Jacob's statement is a poignant acknowledgment of his vulnerability and the limits of his control, reflecting a profound trust in God's overarching plan despite personal suffering. This mirrors the broader biblical narrative of faith amidst trials, where believers are called to trust in God's goodness even when outcomes are uncertain.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the Israelite tribes, father of Joseph and his brothers. In this verse, he is expressing his hope and resignation as he sends his sons back to Egypt.

2. God Almighty (El Shaddai)
A name for God emphasizing His power and sovereignty. Jacob invokes this name, seeking divine intervention and mercy.

3. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob, who are returning to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. They are unaware that the Egyptian official they are dealing with is their brother Joseph.

4. Benjamin
The youngest son of Jacob, whom Jacob is particularly protective of after losing Joseph. His safety is a central concern in this account.

5. Egypt
The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers must go to buy food during the famine.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Jacob's invocation of "God Almighty" (El Shaddai) reminds us to trust in God's ultimate power and control over our circumstances.

Seeking Divine Mercy
Jacob's prayer for mercy highlights the importance of seeking God's compassion and favor in challenging situations.

Acceptance of God's Will
Jacob's statement, "if I am bereaved, I am bereaved," demonstrates a surrender to God's will, teaching us to accept outcomes beyond our control.

Family and Responsibility
The account underscores the importance of family unity and responsibility, as Jacob sends his sons to secure provisions for their survival.

Faith in Action
Jacob's decision to send Benjamin, despite his fears, illustrates faith in action, encouraging us to step forward in faith even when anxious.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's use of the name "God Almighty" (El Shaddai) in Genesis 43:14 reflect his understanding of God's character, and how can this influence our prayers today?

2. In what ways does Jacob's plea for mercy before "the man" (Joseph) parallel our need for God's mercy in our lives?

3. How does Jacob's acceptance of potential bereavement demonstrate a balance between faith and resignation, and how can we apply this balance in our own lives?

4. What lessons can we learn from Jacob's willingness to send Benjamin to Egypt, and how does this relate to trusting God with our most precious concerns?

5. How can the themes of family responsibility and unity in this passage inform our relationships and responsibilities within our own families and communities?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
The preceding chapter sets the stage for this verse, where Joseph's brothers first go to Egypt and encounter Joseph without recognizing him.

Genesis 32:9-12
Jacob's prayer for deliverance from Esau, showing his reliance on God in times of distress, similar to his plea in Genesis 43:14.

Philippians 4:6-7
Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace, which parallels Jacob's reliance on God for mercy.

Romans 8:28
The assurance that God works all things for good for those who love Him, reflecting the underlying trust in God's plan seen in Jacob's statement.