Topical Encyclopedia Favoritism is a recurring theme in the biblical narrative, often leading to familial discord and moral lessons. One of the most poignant examples of favoritism in the Bible is the relationship between Joseph and his younger brother Benjamin, the sons of Jacob and Rachel. This favoritism is intricately woven into the account of Joseph, as recorded in the Book of Genesis.Background Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob, was born to Jacob's favored wife, Rachel. This favoritism was evident from Joseph's youth, as Jacob "loved Joseph more than any of his other sons, because he had been born to him in his old age; and he made him a robe of many colors" (Genesis 37:3). This preferential treatment sowed seeds of jealousy and resentment among Joseph's brothers, ultimately leading to his being sold into slavery in Egypt. Benjamin's Birth and Jacob's Affection Benjamin, the youngest of Jacob's sons, was born after Joseph, and his birth was marked by the tragic death of Rachel (Genesis 35:16-19). As the only remaining son of Rachel, Benjamin naturally became the new focus of Jacob's affection after Joseph's presumed death. This favoritism is evident when Jacob expresses his deep reluctance to send Benjamin to Egypt during the famine, fearing harm might befall him (Genesis 42:4). Joseph's Favoritism for Benjamin When Joseph, having risen to power in Egypt, encounters his brothers during their quest for grain, he conceals his identity. Despite the years and the circumstances, Joseph's favoritism for Benjamin is apparent. Upon seeing Benjamin, Joseph is deeply moved and shows him special favor. He provides Benjamin with a portion five times larger than that of his other brothers during a meal (Genesis 43:34). This act of favoritism is a reflection of Joseph's enduring love for his full brother, the only other son of Rachel. Testing His Brothers Joseph's favoritism for Benjamin also serves as a tool to test his brothers' character. He orchestrates a scenario where Benjamin is accused of theft, placing a silver cup in Benjamin's sack (Genesis 44:2). This test is designed to see whether the brothers have changed since the time they sold Joseph into slavery. Judah's impassioned plea to take Benjamin's place as a slave demonstrates their transformation and repentance (Genesis 44:33-34). Reconciliation and Restoration Ultimately, Joseph's favoritism for Benjamin plays a crucial role in the reconciliation of the family. It is through this favoritism that Joseph is able to reveal his true identity to his brothers, leading to a tearful reunion and the restoration of familial bonds (Genesis 45:1-15). Joseph's actions highlight the complexity of favoritism, showing both its potential for harm and its role in the divine plan for reconciliation and redemption. In the narrative of Joseph and Benjamin, favoritism is portrayed as a multifaceted theme that underscores the dynamics of family relationships, the consequences of partiality, and the possibility of forgiveness and restoration through God's providence. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 43:34And he took and sent messes to them from before him: but Benjamin's mess was five times so much as any of their's. And they drank, and were merry with him. Nave's Topical Index Library A Successful Man of Affairs. The Abrogation of the Saybrook Platform Resources What does it means that mercy triumphs over judgment (James 2:13)? | GotQuestions.orgHow does oppressing the poor show contempt for their Maker (Proverbs 14:31)? | GotQuestions.org What does it mean to love like Jesus? | GotQuestions.org Favoritism: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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