Commentary on Genesis 43:13

Verse Context:

Genesis 43:13 appears in the narrative where Joseph's brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin. They are motivated by their desire to secure food during a famine and to evade the potential consequences of not bringing back their youngest brother.

Exegesis of Genesis 43:13

This verse reads: "Take also your brother, and arise, go again unto the man." The instruction from Jacob emphasizes the necessity of including Benjamin and demonstrates the family's urgency to meet the dire circumstances they are facing.

Background Insights

• After the initial visit to Egypt, when Joseph, the governor, demanded the presence of Benjamin, the command from Jacob highlights the tension between Jacob’s protective nature and the unfolding divine plan.
• The presence of Benjamin is crucial; he is Jacob's remaining son from Rachel, which emphasizes Jacob's deep affection and the fear of losing another son.

Theological Significance

1. Trust and Obedience: Jacob's willingness to send Benjamin signifies a pivotal moment in the restoration of the family. It illustrates the theme of faith amidst fear. This action reflects an underlying trust in God's providence, akin to Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice Isaac.

2. Familial Responsibility: The command to "take also your brother" stresses the theme of family duty. Jacob’s family is intertwined in their survival, a reminder for believers today about the importance of familial bonds and responsibilities.

3. Divine Providence: The act of taking Benjamin does not occur in a vacuum; it is the orchestration of God’s providence. The narrative reveals God's hand in the circumstances of His people, showing that even in difficult times, His plans are being fulfilled.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry’s Commentary:

Henry emphasizes that this command by Jacob was both desperate and necessary. The urgency of the famine compelled the family to act, showcasing how life’s circumstances can force individuals to reevaluate priorities and relationships.

Albert Barnes' Notes:

Barnes underscores the importance of Benjamin’s inclusion, indicating that the family dynamics are vital for the unfolding of God’s plan for Israel. He notes that the movement to return to Egypt is an integral part of their deliverance and foreshadows the eventual reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers.

Adam Clarke’s Commentary:

Clarke elaborates on Jacob’s internal struggle, detailing his protective instincts for Benjamin while also recognizing the dire need for sustenance. This internal conflict is presented as a relatable moment of parental love and concern, inviting readers to connect with Jacob's plight.

Practical Application

1. Navigating Difficult Decisions: The verse serves as a reminder that sometimes we are called to make hard choices for the greater good. Pastors and spiritual leaders can draw on this moment as an illustration for congregants who face tough decisions in their lives.

2. Community and Family in Crisis: The narrative underscores the importance of community support in times of crisis. It invites believers to think about how they respond as a family or community in the face of challenges.

Conclusion

Genesis 43:13 is a profound verse that envelopes the themes of trust, obedience, and divine providence amidst family struggles. As leaders, scholars, and students reflect on this passage, they can find rich meanings that resonate with their lives and ministerial practices.