In the previous post, we witnessed Joseph’s elaborate scheme to test his brothers’ character (Gen 42). As we continue this story, we see how Joseph’s plan continues to play out, revealing the true nature, and eventual transformation, of his brothers’ hearts.
Joseph’s plan to test his brothers’ character was brilliant. Without revealing his identity, he crafted a clever scenario to see if they had changed since selling him into slavery. Their ignorance of who he was allowed him to closely observe how they reacted to the crisis. The remainder of this blog post is to offer commentary on aspects of Joseph’s plan that may not be obvious at first glance.
The return to Egypt
The famine persists, forcing Jacob to send his sons back to Egypt for more grain. This time, Benjamin must accompany them, despite Jacob’s reluctance (Gen 43:1-15). The brothers return, carrying double the silver and gifts, hoping to appease the stern Egyptian ruler.
Interestingly, each brother carries two bags of silver, totaling 20 bags—the same number of silver pieces for which Joseph was sold (Gen 37:28). This coincidence may have pricked their consciences, serving as yet another reminder of their past betrayal.
Joseph’s hospitality and further tests
Upon their arrival, Joseph invites them to dine at his house (Gen 43:16-17). This gesture, while seemingly hospitable, is part of Joseph’s ongoing test. He maintains his disguise, eating separately from his brothers, as Egyptians did not eat with foreigners (Gen 43:32). Remarkably, the Egyptians wouldn’t even eat with Joseph, highlighting the cultural barriers that would later serve to isolate and preserve the Israelites in Egypt.
During the meal, Joseph seats his brothers in order of age, much to their amazement (Gen 43:33). He then shows favoritism to Benjamin, giving him five times more food than the others (Gen 43:34). This deliberate act echoes the favoritism that once sparked their jealousy towards Joseph. He wants to see if they’ve overcome their resentment of their father’s favoritism.
The final test
As the brothers prepare to leave, Joseph orchestrates one last, crucial test. He has his silver cup planted in Benjamin’s sack, then sends his steward to accuse them of theft (Gen 44:1-13). When Joseph’s steward discovered the cup, it devastated the brothers. They could have abandoned Benjamin to his fate, but instead, they return to face Joseph together.
Standing before Joseph, Judah speaks for the group (Gen 44:14-16). He admits their guilt, not for stealing the cup, but for their past sins. It’s clear they recognize this situation as divine retribution for selling Joseph into slavery years ago.
Joseph pushes the test further, offering to keep only Benjamin as a slave while letting the others go free (Gen 44:17). This is the moment of truth: Will they save themselves by abandoning Rachel’s son, just as they did with Joseph?
The transformation revealed
In a powerful turn of events, Judah steps forward (Gen 44:18-34). This is the same Judah who once suggested selling Joseph (Gen 37:26-27), whose first two sons were so wicked that God struck them down (Gen 38:7-10), and who unknowingly slept with his daughter-in-law (Gen 38:15-18). Now, he offers himself in Benjamin’s place, unable to bear the thought of causing his father more grief.
Judah’s plea reveals a profound transformation. He and his brothers, once willing to inflict cruelty on Joseph and lie to their father, now cannot bear the thought of causing Jacob additional pain. They’ve passed Joseph’s final test, demonstrating that they’ve truly changed.
The wisdom in Joseph’s plan
Joseph’s elaborate scheme serves a greater purpose than mere revenge. By bringing his family to Egypt, he unwittingly fulfills God’s plan to preserve the Israelites (Gen 45:5-8). In Egypt, they would be relatively isolated from the corrupting pagan influences of Canaan, allowing them to grow into a distinct nation.
Moreover, Joseph’s tests provide his brothers with an opportunity for redemption. Their actions demonstrate that people can indeed change and that hearts can transform. The brothers who once sold Joseph into slavery now stand united, willing to sacrifice themselves for each other and for their father’s well-being.
As we reflect on this story, we’re challenged to consider the nature of forgiveness, redemption, and personal growth. Joseph’s brothers show us that even those who’ve committed grievous wrongs can change, given the opportunity. Their transformation reminds us of the power of conscience, the weight of guilt, the possibility of redemption, and the loving kindness of God.