Genesis 43:28

"Your servant our father is well," they answered. "He is still alive." And they bowed down to honor him.

Study Bible

Your servant our father is well
This phrase reflects the humility and respect Joseph's brothers show towards him, acknowledging their father Jacob as Joseph's servant. The Hebrew word for "servant" is "עֶבֶד" (eved), which denotes a position of subservience and respect. This is significant in the context of ancient Near Eastern culture, where family hierarchy and respect for authority were paramount. The brothers' use of this term indicates their recognition of Joseph's authority in Egypt, even though they are unaware of his true identity at this point.

they answered
The act of answering here is more than just a response; it is a fulfillment of Joseph's earlier dreams where his family would bow to him. The Hebrew root "עָנָה" (anah) implies a reply or response, often in a formal or respectful manner. This response is part of the unfolding of God's providential plan, showing that even in their ignorance, the brothers are participating in the divine narrative.

He is still alive
This statement is a testament to Jacob's enduring life and vitality despite the years of hardship and sorrow he has faced, particularly the loss of Joseph. The Hebrew word "חַי" (chai) means "alive" or "living," and it carries connotations of vibrancy and ongoing existence. In the broader biblical narrative, life is a gift from God, and Jacob's continued life is a sign of God's sustaining grace.

And they bowed down to honor him
The act of bowing down is a physical manifestation of respect and submission. The Hebrew verb "שָׁחָה" (shachah) means to bow down or prostrate oneself, often in worship or deep respect. This act fulfills Joseph's prophetic dreams (Genesis 37:7-9) and symbolizes the brothers' unwitting acknowledgment of Joseph's God-given authority. In the ancient world, bowing was a common gesture of deference, and here it signifies the brothers' acceptance of the unfolding divine plan, even if they do not fully understand it yet.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
- The governor of Egypt, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to power. He is the central figure in this account, testing his brothers' character and integrity.

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

3. Jacob (Israel)
- The father of Joseph and his brothers, who remains in Canaan. His well-being is a concern for his sons as they navigate their interactions with Joseph.

4. Egypt
- The land where Joseph has risen to power and where his brothers have come to buy grain due to the severe famine in Canaan.

5. Famine
- A severe shortage of food affecting Canaan and surrounding regions, prompting Joseph's brothers to travel to Egypt for sustenance.

Teaching Points

The Fulfillment of Dreams
Joseph's dreams in Genesis 37, where his brothers bow to him, are fulfilled here. God's plans and promises may take time, but they are sure.

Reconciliation and Forgiveness
Joseph's interactions with his brothers highlight themes of reconciliation. Despite their past wrongs, Joseph seeks to restore the relationship, pointing to the importance of forgiveness.

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership in Egypt demonstrates God's sovereignty and ability to use difficult circumstances for His purposes.

Respect and Honor
The brothers' act of bowing signifies respect and honor, reminding us of the importance of humility and respect in our relationships.

Family and Responsibility
The brothers' concern for their father Jacob's well-being underscores the importance of family responsibility and care.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his brothers reflect God's character in terms of forgiveness and grace?

2. In what ways can we see God's sovereignty at work in Joseph's life, and how can we apply this understanding to our own trials?

3. How does the fulfillment of Joseph's dreams in this passage encourage us to trust in God's promises?

4. What lessons can we learn from the brothers' concern for their father, and how can we apply these lessons to our own family relationships?

5. How does the act of bowing in this passage relate to the New Testament teaching of every knee bowing to Christ, and what does this mean for our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's relationship with his brothers, including their jealousy and betrayal, which sets the stage for the events in Genesis 43.

Genesis 42
The previous chapter describes the brothers' first journey to Egypt and their initial encounter with Joseph, who accuses them of being spies.

Genesis 44
The subsequent chapter continues the account, where Joseph further tests his brothers' loyalty and repentance.

Philippians 2:10-11
This New Testament passage speaks of every knee bowing to Jesus, drawing a parallel to Joseph's brothers bowing to him, foreshadowing the ultimate submission to Christ.