Genesis 47:12Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

"God sent me ahead of you to ensure your survival" (Gen. 45:5). "Provided, it is noted, with bread" in accordance with the number of individuals. What does this imply: according to the number of individuals? It signifies that each person received what was necessary. The Scriptures often reference humanity in its entirety—sometimes addressing the spirit, sometimes the physical form. As stated earlier, Jacob traveled to Egypt with seventy-five souls, rather than specifying seventy-five 'husbands and wives.' Similarly, it is expressed here, according to the number of individuals, meaning for each person. Therefore, at a time when both Egypt and the land of Canaan were enduring famine, the household of Jacob thrived, possessing sustenance as if it were flowing abundantly from a Source.

In accordance with the number of individuals, based on the requirements of each household. Translated from the Hebrew, it signifies by the words of the children.