Genesis 43:2

So when Jacob's sons had eaten all the grain they had brought from Egypt, their father said to them, "Go back and buy us a little more food."

Study Bible

So when Jacob’s sons had eaten all the grain they had brought from Egypt
This phrase indicates a time of severe famine, which is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative. The famine had affected not only Egypt but also Canaan, where Jacob and his family resided. The grain they had brought from Egypt was a temporary solution, highlighting the dire circumstances. This situation sets the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan for Israel. The mention of Egypt is significant, as it was a major center of civilization and agriculture, often serving as a place of refuge during famines (Genesis 12:10).

their father said to them
Jacob, also known as Israel, is the patriarch of the family. His leadership and decision-making are central to the narrative. This moment reflects his role as the head of the family, responsible for their survival. It also shows the tension between his authority and the necessity of relying on his sons, particularly in the context of the previous events involving Joseph, whom Jacob believes to be dead.

“Go back and buy us a little more food.”
This command underscores the ongoing crisis and the need for sustenance. The phrase "a little more food" suggests the scarcity and preciousness of resources during the famine. It also foreshadows the further interactions with Joseph, who is now the governor of Egypt, unbeknownst to his brothers. This request sets in motion the events that will lead to the eventual reconciliation of Joseph with his family, fulfilling God's promise to Abraham about his descendants (Genesis 15:13-14). The journey back to Egypt is a pivotal moment in the narrative, emphasizing themes of repentance, forgiveness, and divine providence.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jacob (Israel)
The patriarch of the family, father of the twelve tribes of Israel. In this verse, he is concerned about the survival of his family during a severe famine.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who had previously traveled to Egypt to buy grain. They are central to the unfolding account of reconciliation and redemption.

3. Egypt
The land where Joseph, Jacob's son, has risen to power and where grain is available during the famine. It serves as a place of both physical sustenance and spiritual testing.

4. Famine
A severe shortage of food affecting the region, driving Jacob's family to seek sustenance in Egypt. It is a catalyst for the unfolding events and the eventual reunion of Joseph with his family.

5. Grain
The essential commodity that Jacob's family needs to survive, symbolizing God's provision and the means through which He orchestrates His plans.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Provision
Just as Jacob had to rely on the grain from Egypt, we are called to trust in God's provision for our needs, both physical and spiritual.

God's Sovereignty in Trials
The famine, though a trial, was used by God to bring about His purposes. We can trust that God is sovereign over our circumstances and works through them for His glory.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
The journey to Egypt sets the stage for reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers. We are reminded of the importance of seeking and offering forgiveness in our relationships.

Faith in Action
Jacob's directive to return to Egypt demonstrates faith in action. We are encouraged to act in faith, trusting that God will guide and provide for us.

Family and Responsibility
Jacob's concern for his family's survival highlights the importance of caring for and taking responsibility for our loved ones.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's decision to send his sons back to Egypt demonstrate trust in God's provision, and how can we apply this trust in our own lives?

2. In what ways does the famine serve as a catalyst for God's plan in the account of Joseph, and how can we see God's hand in our own trials?

3. How does the theme of reconciliation in Joseph's account encourage us to pursue forgiveness and healing in our relationships?

4. What are some practical ways we can demonstrate faith in action, as seen in Jacob's decision to send his sons back to Egypt?

5. How does the responsibility Jacob feels for his family challenge us to care for and support our own families in times of need?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42
The preceding chapter provides context for the brothers' initial journey to Egypt and their first encounter with Joseph, setting the stage for the events in Genesis 43.

Genesis 45
This chapter reveals Joseph's identity to his brothers, highlighting themes of forgiveness and God's sovereignty in using difficult circumstances for good.

Matthew 6:25-34
Jesus teaches about God's provision and the importance of trusting Him for our daily needs, echoing the reliance on God's provision seen in Jacob's family.

Romans 8:28
This verse speaks to God's ability to work all things for good, a theme evident in the unfolding account of Joseph and his brothers.