The narrative of the return to Egypt with Benjamin is a significant episode in the Joseph account, found in the Book of Genesis, chapters 42-45. This event is pivotal in the unfolding of God's providential plan for the family of Jacob (Israel) and the future nation of Israel. It highlights themes of repentance, reconciliation, and divine sovereignty.

Context and Background

The account takes place during a severe famine that affected the entire region, including Canaan, where Jacob and his sons resided. Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers years earlier, had risen to become the governor of Egypt, second only to Pharaoh. Under Joseph's administration, Egypt had stored surplus grain during seven years of plenty, preparing for the subsequent famine.

Initial Journey to Egypt

Jacob sent ten of his sons to Egypt to buy grain, keeping Benjamin, the youngest and Joseph's full brother, at home due to fear of losing him (Genesis 42:4). Upon their arrival, Joseph recognized his brothers, but they did not recognize him. Joseph accused them of being spies, testing their integrity and intentions (Genesis 42:9).

Demand for Benjamin

To prove their honesty, Joseph demanded that they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, to Egypt. He detained Simeon as a hostage and sent the others back with grain, secretly returning their payment in their sacks (Genesis 42:19-25). Upon discovering the money, the brothers were filled with fear, interpreting these events as divine retribution for their past sins against Joseph (Genesis 42:28).

Jacob's Reluctance and the Brothers' Return

Back in Canaan, Jacob was distressed by the demand to send Benjamin to Egypt. Initially, he refused, fearing harm might come to Benjamin, whom he loved dearly as the last remaining son of his beloved wife Rachel (Genesis 42:36-38). However, as the famine persisted and their food supply dwindled, Judah took responsibility for Benjamin's safety, persuading Jacob to relent (Genesis 43:8-9).

The Second Journey

The brothers returned to Egypt with Benjamin, bringing gifts and double the money to rectify the previous oversight (Genesis 43:11-15). Upon their arrival, Joseph hosted a feast, showing special favor to Benjamin, which aroused the brothers' curiosity and unease (Genesis 43:34).

The Final Test

Joseph devised a final test by secretly placing his silver cup in Benjamin's sack. When the brothers departed, Joseph's steward pursued them, accusing them of theft. The cup was discovered in Benjamin's sack, and the brothers returned to the city in despair (Genesis 44:1-13).

Judah's Plea and Joseph's Revelation

In a poignant moment, Judah approached Joseph, offering himself as a substitute for Benjamin, demonstrating a profound change of heart and willingness to sacrifice for his brother (Genesis 44:18-34). Moved by Judah's plea and the evident transformation in his brothers, Joseph revealed his identity, expressing forgiveness and recognizing God's hand in the events that led to their reunion (Genesis 45:1-8).

Significance

The return to Egypt with Benjamin is a testament to God's redemptive work through human frailty and failure. It underscores the themes of repentance, forgiveness, and the restoration of broken relationships. This episode also foreshadows the future deliverance of Israel from Egypt, as God continues to fulfill His covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.