The Beginning:
A severe famine spreads over the region, and Jacob sends his sons from Canaan to Egypt to buy grain. Unknown to them, Joseph—whom they had sold into slavery years earlier—has become a high official overseeing Egypt’s food supply. When the brothers arrive, Joseph recognizes them, but they do not recognize him.
The Middle:
Joseph speaks harshly and accuses them of being spies, placing them under pressure that exposes their past guilt and fear. He keeps Simeon in custody and requires them to return with their youngest brother, Benjamin, as proof of their honesty. When they later return with Benjamin, Joseph tests their loyalty by arranging a situation that appears to frame Benjamin for theft. Judah steps forward, pleading for Benjamin’s release and offering himself in Benjamin’s place, showing a change from their earlier betrayal of Joseph.
The End:
Moved, Joseph can no longer restrain himself and reveals his identity, weeping and assuring his brothers that he does not seek revenge. He interprets the events as God’s providence to preserve life during the famine and instructs them to bring Jacob and their households to Egypt. The brothers return to Canaan with the news, and the fractured family begins to be restored.
This reunion highlights God’s sovereign faithfulness in preserving the covenant family through hardship and human wrongdoing. Joseph’s words interpret the story through providence: God is able to use evil intentions without approving them, directing events toward life and preservation. The narrative also shows reconciliation grounded in truth, repentance, and mercy, advancing God’s promise to sustain Abraham’s descendants despite internal sin and external threat.
Genesis reflects well-known features of ancient Near Eastern famine relief: centralized grain storage and distribution managed by high officials, and travel between Canaan and Egypt in times of regional shortage. Such movements are consistent with Egypt’s agricultural stability from Nile-based farming and its historical role as a food source during droughts in surrounding lands.
“You meant evil against me, but God meant it for good.” — Genesis 50:20
Answer the questions below. When you choose an option, you will see the result and an explanation.
1. Why did Jacob send his sons from Canaan to Egypt?
2. What did Judah offer to do when Joseph’s test appeared to frame Benjamin for theft?