The narrative of the brothers' return to Egypt with gifts is a significant episode in the Joseph account, found in the Book of Genesis. This event is part of the larger narrative of Joseph and his brothers, which spans Genesis chapters 37 to 50. The specific account of their return with gifts is detailed in Genesis 43.

Context and Background

The account unfolds during a severe famine that affected the entire region, including Canaan, where Jacob and his family resided. Previously, Joseph's brothers had traveled to Egypt to buy grain, as Egypt was the only place with food due to Joseph's wise administration. Unbeknownst to them, the Egyptian official they encountered was their brother Joseph, whom they had sold into slavery years earlier. Joseph, recognizing them, accused them of being spies and detained Simeon, demanding that they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, to prove their honesty (Genesis 42:18-24).

The Return to Egypt

As the famine persisted, Jacob's family consumed the grain they had brought from Egypt. Jacob, initially reluctant to send Benjamin, was persuaded by Judah, who pledged to ensure Benjamin's safety (Genesis 43:8-9). Jacob instructed his sons to take gifts for the Egyptian official, hoping to appease him and secure Simeon's release. The gifts included "some of the best products of the land—balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachios, and almonds" (Genesis 43:11). Additionally, they were to return the money found in their sacks, fearing it was a mistake (Genesis 43:12).

Significance of the Gifts

The gifts carried by the brothers were not only a gesture of goodwill but also a reflection of the customs of the time, where presenting gifts was a means to gain favor and show respect. The selection of items—balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachios, and almonds—were valuable commodities, indicating the family's desire to make a favorable impression on the Egyptian official.

The Encounter with Joseph

Upon their arrival in Egypt, the brothers were brought to Joseph's house. Fearing retribution for the money found in their sacks, they explained the situation to Joseph's steward, who reassured them that their God had given them treasure in their sacks (Genesis 43:23). When Joseph arrived, the brothers presented their gifts and bowed before him, fulfilling Joseph's earlier dreams of his brothers bowing to him (Genesis 43:26).

Joseph, deeply moved by the sight of Benjamin, withdrew to weep privately. Upon returning, he hosted a meal for his brothers, seating them according to their birth order, which astonished them. Benjamin received a portion five times larger than the others, highlighting Joseph's special affection for him (Genesis 43:33-34).

Theological Implications

This episode illustrates themes of providence, reconciliation, and the unfolding of God's plan. Joseph's actions, though initially harsh, were part of a divine strategy to bring about healing and restoration within the family. The brothers' journey to Egypt with gifts symbolizes their willingness to make amends and seek peace, foreshadowing the eventual reconciliation with Joseph.

The narrative also underscores the sovereignty of God in using human actions, even those intended for harm, to achieve His purposes. Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and the subsequent preservation of his family during the famine are seen as part of God's covenantal promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Conclusion

The brothers' return to Egypt with gifts is a pivotal moment in the Joseph narrative, rich with cultural, relational, and theological significance. It sets the stage for the eventual revelation of Joseph's identity and the restoration of familial bonds, demonstrating the intricate workings of divine providence in the lives of the patriarchs.