Genesis 44:11Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The ruler instructed them to gather their bags so he could conduct a search. They quickly took the bags off the pack animals, and the cup was discovered in Benjamin's sack.

The bags are inspected sequentially based on the age of each individual. Here, Scripture imparts a valuable moral insight. Earlier, they had been seated in order during the meal before Joseph, starting with the eldest in accordance with his age (See Gen. 43:33) – note how this position of distinction was reserved for the firstborn. Conversely, the examination of each person's sacks continues in the same age-related order, signifying that Paul was selected through divine discernment. While others also underwent scrutiny, he was especially favored, for the silver cup was discovered solely within his sack. What is the significance of the cup being found in a simple bag? Joseph caused his brothers to partake of wine (See Gen. 43:34) as part of his ruse; he concealed the cup to draw back the brother he cherished through a noble deception, while simultaneously reflecting divine intentions in the process.