Genesis 43:27

He asked if they were well, and then he asked, "How is your elderly father you told me about? Is he still alive?"

Study Bible

He asked about their welfare
This phrase highlights Joseph's genuine concern for his brothers' well-being. The Hebrew root for "welfare" is "shalom," which encompasses peace, completeness, and prosperity. Joseph's inquiry reflects a deep-seated desire for reconciliation and peace, despite the past grievances. In a broader biblical context, "shalom" is a state of harmony that God desires for His creation, and Joseph's question is a step towards restoring that harmony within his family.

and said
This simple phrase indicates a transition from thought to speech, emphasizing the importance of verbal communication in relationships. In the biblical narrative, speech acts often carry significant weight, as seen in God's creation of the world through His word. Joseph's words here are not just casual conversation; they are a deliberate act of reaching out to his family.

Is your father still alive
Joseph's question about his father, Jacob, reveals his deep emotional connection and longing for his family. The repetition of the inquiry underscores its importance to Joseph. Historically, the patriarchal family structure was central to Hebrew society, and the well-being of the father was crucial for the family's stability and honor. Joseph's concern for Jacob reflects the biblical value of honoring one's parents, as commanded in the Ten Commandments.

the old man you mentioned
This phrase acknowledges the previous conversation between Joseph and his brothers, where they spoke of their father. The term "old man" is a respectful acknowledgment of Jacob's age and status. In ancient Near Eastern culture, age was associated with wisdom and respect. Joseph's reference to Jacob as "the old man" is a recognition of his father's esteemed position within the family and society.

Is he still alive?
The repetition of this question emphasizes Joseph's deep concern and urgency in knowing about his father's condition. It reflects the emotional tension and anticipation in the narrative, as Joseph is on the verge of revealing his identity to his brothers. This question also serves as a metaphorical inquiry into the spiritual and relational "aliveness" of the family, which has been fractured by past events. Joseph's longing for his father's life is symbolic of his desire for the restoration and healing of familial bonds.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
- The governor of Egypt, who is actually the brother of the men he is questioning. He is in a position of power and is testing his brothers' integrity and familial loyalty.

2. Joseph's Brothers
- They have come to Egypt to buy grain during a famine. Unbeknownst to them, the Egyptian official they are dealing with is their brother Joseph, whom they sold into slavery years earlier.

3. Jacob (Israel)
- The elderly father of Joseph and his brothers, who remains in Canaan. His well-being is of concern to Joseph, indicating Joseph's continued love and respect for his father.

4. Egypt
- The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to seek sustenance during the famine.

5. Canaan
- The homeland of Jacob and his sons, where the famine has struck, prompting their journey to Egypt.

Teaching Points

Family Reconciliation
Joseph's inquiry about his father shows his desire for family reconciliation despite past wrongs. This teaches us the importance of seeking restoration in our own family relationships.

Respect for Elders
Joseph's concern for his elderly father highlights the biblical principle of honoring and caring for our parents, a value that remains relevant today.

God's Sovereignty
Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership in Egypt demonstrates God's sovereign plan and purpose, even through difficult circumstances. We can trust that God is at work in our lives, even when we don't understand His ways.

Forgiveness and Grace
Joseph's interactions with his brothers, despite their betrayal, foreshadow the grace and forgiveness that are central to the Christian faith. We are called to extend forgiveness to others as we have been forgiven by Christ.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's inquiry about his father reflect his character and priorities? How can we apply this attitude in our own family relationships?

2. In what ways does Joseph's account illustrate the principle of honoring one's parents, as seen in Exodus 20:12? How can we practice this in our daily lives?

3. How does the theme of reconciliation in Joseph's account connect with the Parable of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15? What lessons can we learn about forgiveness and restoration?

4. Consider the role of God's sovereignty in Joseph's life. How can we find comfort and assurance in God's plan for us, even when facing challenges?

5. Reflect on a time when you had to forgive someone who wronged you. How does Joseph's example encourage you to extend grace and forgiveness in your own life?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's relationship with his brothers, including their betrayal and his eventual rise to power in Egypt.

Genesis 42
The previous chapter where Joseph first encounters his brothers in Egypt, setting the stage for the events of Genesis 43.

Exodus 20:12
The commandment to honor one's father and mother, which is reflected in Joseph's concern for his father Jacob.

Luke 15:11-32
The Parable of the Prodigal Son, which shares themes of reconciliation and familial love, similar to Joseph's eventual reconciliation with his brothers.