Genesis 43:26Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In Egypt, Joseph initially served Pentephrius, a high-ranking official in Pharaoh's court, and gained his trust and favor. However, after being falsely accused by Pentephrius's wife, he was imprisoned. While in custody, Joseph was summoned to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams, which prophesied seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine. His wise counsel on stockpiling food during the years of plenty led to his elevation to a prominent position in Pharaoh’s court, where he managed the reserves for the nation.

The famine affected not just Egypt but also Canaan, where Jacob and his household resided. Jacob sent his sons to procure grain in Egypt. As outsiders, they needed Joseph's express permission to buy food and were required to approach him directly. Although they did not recognize him, Joseph identified them but feigned ignorance and acted harshly to discern their true character and encourage their remorse. After giving them provisions, he instructed them to return with their younger brother Benjamin.

A year later, when their supplies ran low, Jacob reluctantly allowed Benjamin, the second child of his beloved Rachel, to accompany his brothers back to Egypt. Once again, Joseph’s brothers stood before him, bringing gifts that their father had sent: "balm, honey, styrax, frankincense, pistachio and almond nuts" (Genesis 43:11). They bowed down before him, a gesture of respect they had shown during their initial encounter (Genesis 42:6). In both instances, Joseph’s earlier dreams, which had once provoked their hostility, were now realized. He had dreamed twice (Genesis 37:7-10); first, that while they were binding sheaves in the field, his sheaf stood upright as theirs bowed before it. The second dream depicted the sun, moon, and eleven stars prostrating before him. His brothers’ determination to destroy him stemmed from their disbelief that they, being the older siblings, would ever bow down to their younger brother, particularly in the presence of their father and mother. Yet, the truth of his dreams came to fruition as they indeed bowed down to him.