Old Testament · Law

Genesis 43:13

Benjamin

Take your brother as well, and return to the man at once. Genesis 43:13 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

Genesis 43:13, in plain English

Jacob's final instruction is simple: take Benjamin and go back to the man right away.

Why it's here

After all the debate, the explanation, the gift-gathering, Jacob has reached his decision. He's letting his youngest son go, trusting Judah's guarantee and accepting what must be. It's the hardest thing he's done since losing Joseph.

Who's speaking

Jacob gives his final command, which is really an act of surrender and faith.

Where it sits in the story

This is Jacob learning to release what he's been holding onto too tightly. It's a step toward the healing and reunion that God has been orchestrating all along.

A Closer Look

The scholar's commentary

Jacob concludes his instructions by commanding them to bring Benjamin and return immediately to the Egyptian official.

Language and setting

The directive וְאֶת־אֲחִיכֶם קְחוּ (ve'et-achikhem kechu, 'take your brother as well') places Benjamin's journey within the context of commerce and family survival rather than as extraordinary sacrifice. Jacob's command לְכוּ־שׁוּבוּ (lechu-shuvu, 'go, return') uses the covenant verb שׁוּב (shuv) again, suggesting that this journey entails restoration, not merely transaction.

Voice

Jacob, giving final command

Significance

Jacob's acquiescence, though reluctant, places him in the stream of Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac—both patriarchs surrendering their most precious sons to circumstances that transcend their understanding, trusting in divine providence.

In context

Genesis 43:11–15

11Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your packs and carry them down as a gift for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachios and almonds.

12Take double the silver with you so that you may return the silver that was put back into the mouths of your sacks. Perhaps it was a mistake.

13Take your brother as well, and return to the man at once.

14May God Almighty grant you mercy before the man, that he may release your other brother along with Benjamin. As for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved.”

15So the men took these gifts, along with double the amount of silver, and Benjamin as well. Then they hurried down to Egypt and stood before Joseph.

Read all of Genesis 43 — Joseph's brothers return to Egypt with the youngest. The table is set for a reckoning — and a revelation.

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