Old Testament · Law

Genesis 43:25

Benjamin

Since the brothers had been told that they were going to eat a meal there, they prepared their gift for Joseph’s arrival at noon. Genesis 43:25 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

Genesis 43:25, in plain English

The brothers learn that they'll be eating a meal with Joseph at noon, so they take their gifts and prepare them for him.

Why it's here

They brought gifts from their father Jacob—probably the best things they could find at home. Having told Joseph about their father, they now prepare to actually meet him, and they want to honor him appropriately. There's both anticipation and nervousness here. They're about to meet the powerful Egyptian official who holds their brother's fate and their own in his hands.

Who's speaking

The narrative voice, setting the stage for the reunion.

Where it sits in the story

Gift-giving and honor are central themes in how people approach power in this culture. The brothers are treating Joseph with the respect they've been taught, not knowing that beneath his Egyptian identity is their own brother.

A Closer Look

The scholar's commentary

Because the brothers had been informed they would eat a meal with the Egyptian official at noon, they prepared the gifts they had brought for him.

Language and setting

The brothers, having learned they would dine at Joseph's table—an extraordinary honor for foreign merchants—hastily prepared their gifts (מִנְחָה, minchah, often used for tribute or offerings). This preparation during the waiting period reflects their anxiety and their understanding of appropriate protocol: one does not approach an Egyptian magnate empty-handed. The noon timing would have been announced to them by the steward, building anticipation and heightening their emotional tension.

Voice

Narrative explanation of the brothers' preparations

Significance

The presentation of gifts represents the brothers' acknowledgment of Joseph's superiority and their attempt to secure favor—a posture that Joseph is testing. Their anxiety-driven preparation contrasts with Benjamin's eventual elevated status, which will be given rather than earned, suggesting that blessing flows from relationship, not transaction.

In context

Genesis 43:23–27

23“It is fine,” said the steward. “Do not be afraid. Your God, the God of your father, gave you the treasure that was in your sacks. I received your silver.” Then he brought Simeon out to them.

24And the steward took the men into Joseph’s house, gave them water to wash their feet, and provided food for their donkeys.

25Since the brothers had been told that they were going to eat a meal there, they prepared their gift for Joseph’s arrival at noon.

26When Joseph came home, they presented him with the gifts they had brought, and they bowed to the ground before him.

27He asked if they were well, and then he asked, “How is your elderly father you told me about? Is he still alive?”

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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