Genesis 44:1

Then Joseph instructed his steward: "Fill the men's sacks with as much food as they can carry, and put each one's silver in the mouth of his sack.

Study Bible

Then Joseph instructed his steward
The phrase begins with "Then," indicating a continuation of the narrative and a pivotal moment in Joseph's dealings with his brothers. Joseph, now a powerful figure in Egypt, uses his authority to orchestrate a test for his brothers. The Hebrew root for "instructed" (צָוָה, tsavah) implies a command or charge, reflecting Joseph's authoritative position. The "steward" (אֲשֶׁר עַל־בֵּיתוֹ, asher al-bayto) is a trusted servant, highlighting the structured hierarchy in Joseph's household and his reliance on trusted aides to execute his plans.

Fill the men’s bags with as much food as they can carry
Joseph's command to "fill the men’s bags" is an act of generosity, ensuring his brothers have ample provisions. The Hebrew word for "fill" (מָלֵא, male) suggests abundance and completeness, reflecting Joseph's desire to provide for his family despite their past betrayal. The phrase "as much food as they can carry" underscores the severity of the famine and the necessity of the journey, while also setting the stage for the unfolding test of character.

and put each man’s silver in the mouth of his bag
This instruction is a deliberate act by Joseph to test his brothers' integrity. The "silver" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) is significant, as it was the currency used in their betrayal of Joseph years earlier. By placing the silver in the "mouth of his bag," Joseph creates a scenario that will challenge his brothers' honesty and repentance. This act is rich in irony and symbolism, as it mirrors their previous actions and sets the stage for their moral testing.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who has risen to a position of power in Egypt. He is orchestrating a test for his brothers to see if they have changed since they sold him into slavery.

2. Joseph's Steward
An unnamed servant of Joseph who is tasked with carrying out Joseph's instructions. He plays a crucial role in the unfolding of Joseph's plan.

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

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph has become a powerful leader, second only to Pharaoh. It is a place of refuge during the famine.

5. Silver
The money used by Joseph's brothers to purchase grain. Joseph instructs his steward to return it to them, setting the stage for a test of their integrity.

Teaching Points

Testing and Transformation
Joseph's actions are a test to see if his brothers have changed. God often allows tests in our lives to reveal our character and growth.

Grace and Forgiveness
Joseph's decision to return the silver and provide for his brothers foreshadows his ultimate act of forgiveness. We are called to extend grace and forgiveness to those who have wronged us.

Providence and Sovereignty
Joseph's rise to power and the unfolding events demonstrate God's providential hand. Trust in God's sovereignty, even when circumstances seem unfavorable.

Integrity and Repentance
The brothers' response to the test will reveal their integrity and repentance. True repentance involves a change of heart and behavior.

Reconciliation and Restoration
Joseph's actions pave the way for reconciliation with his brothers. Seek reconciliation in broken relationships, as it reflects God's heart for restoration.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's test of his brothers in Genesis 44:1 reflect God's testing of our character and faith today?

2. In what ways does Joseph's return of the silver to his brothers demonstrate grace, and how can we apply this principle in our relationships?

3. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the concept of God's providence and sovereignty in our lives?

4. What can we learn from Joseph's approach to reconciliation and forgiveness, and how can we apply these lessons to our own experiences of conflict?

5. How do the themes of integrity and repentance in Genesis 44 relate to other biblical teachings on these topics, and how can they guide our personal spiritual growth?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42-43
These chapters provide the background for Genesis 44, detailing the brothers' previous trips to Egypt and their interactions with Joseph.

Genesis 37
The account of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers, which sets the stage for the events in Genesis 44.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus' teaching on loving your enemies can be seen in Joseph's actions, as he seeks reconciliation rather than revenge.

Romans 12:19-21
Paul's exhortation to leave vengeance to God and overcome evil with good is exemplified in Joseph's dealings with his brothers.