This verse, Genesis 43:3, refers to Judah recounting to Jacob (Israel) the conditions set by the powerful Egyptian official (who is secretly their brother Joseph). Let's break it down:
"Judah spoke to him, saying..." Judah is addressing his father, Jacob. He's acting as the spokesperson for his brothers. They are in a desperate situation, as they need to return to Egypt for more food.
"The man solemnly warned us..." "The man" is the Egyptian official they had previously encountered (Joseph, though they don't know it yet). The word "solemnly" implies a serious and binding warning, almost like a vow or an oath. This underscores the gravity of the situation.
"...saying, 'You shall not see my face, unless your brother is with you.'" This is the core condition. The Egyptian official made it clear they would not be granted an audience – they would not be able to buy grain – unless they brought Benjamin, their youngest brother, with them. This condition creates a major conflict for Jacob, as he is very protective of Benjamin and reluctant to let him go.
In essence, this verse highlights:
The predicament they are in: They need to return to Egypt for food to survive the famine.
The condition for getting help: The Egyptian official demands that Benjamin, the youngest brother, accompany them.
The gravity of the condition: The official's warning was serious and firm.
The upcoming conflict: Jacob's reluctance to let Benjamin go creates a major obstacle.
This verse sets the stage for the escalating tension and drama in the story of Joseph and his brothers, as they must decide whether to risk Benjamin's safety in order to save themselves from starvation.
This verse, Genesis 43:3, refers to Judah recounting to Jacob (Israel) the conditions set by the powerful Egyptian official (who is secretly their brother Joseph). Let's break it down:
"Judah spoke to him, saying..." Judah is addressing his father, Jacob. He's acting as the spokesperson for his brothers. They are in a desperate situation, as they need to return to Egypt for more food.
"The man solemnly warned us..." "The man" is the Egyptian official they had previously encountered (Joseph, though they don't know it yet). The word "solemnly" implies a serious and binding warning, almost like a vow or an oath. This underscores the gravity of the situation.
"...saying, 'You shall not see my face, unless your brother is with you.'" This is the core condition. The Egyptian official made it clear they would not be granted an audience – they would not be able to buy grain – unless they brought Benjamin, their youngest brother, with them. This condition creates a major conflict for Jacob, as he is very protective of Benjamin and reluctant to let him go.
In essence, this verse highlights:
The predicament they are in: They need to return to Egypt for food to survive the famine.
The condition for getting help: The Egyptian official demands that Benjamin, the youngest brother, accompany them.
The gravity of the condition: The official's warning was serious and firm.
The upcoming conflict: Jacob's reluctance to let Benjamin go creates a major obstacle.
This verse sets the stage for the escalating tension and drama in the story of Joseph and his brothers, as they must decide whether to risk Benjamin's safety in order to save themselves from starvation.