Joseph gets his brothers Drunk - Genesis 43

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Again, the willingness of the brothers to sacrifice themself on behalf of their younger brothers reminds me of the redemptive sacrifice of Jesus.

The brother's return, the grain runs out, and Jacob's family is still hungry. They need to buy more grain. This single incident in one family shows the situation all the families in the land find themself in. All are dependent on Egypt and must return, whether they like it or not.

Rueben was unable to convince his father in the previous chapter, but in this chapter Judah convinces him to send Benjamin. Rueben has probably lost the trust of his father. The text reminds us of the shift in the family's leadership to Judah.

Judah convinces Jacob to act when he is reluctant, as his mother did when he was young. Just as his mother said she would take the curse of Isaac on herself, so Judah says he will take the curse on himself if Benjamin is not returned.

(Ben by Michael Jackson)

Jacob is ingratiating himself to Joseph for fear for his son's life.

The brothers immediately tell Joseph about the silver, and show that they are returning twice the payment. They are terrified of him.

They interpreted the silver in the bags as God's punishment. Joseph's servant interprets the silver in their bag as God's provision.

Joseph seems very transparent as he asks about his father.

Joseph treats the brothers very well this time. If I were them, I'd suspect psychological warfare and still be terrified.

v30 - second weep. Just as Jacob lifted stones, Joseph does a lot of crying.

Joseph is showing preference to Benjamin, just as preference had been shown to him in childhood.

Joseph is setting his brothers up. Are they inclined to jealousy toward a brother treated with preference?

Joseph shared a brewski with his brothers, getting drunk together. They made merry. They were loaded.

Plastered.

Egyptians won't eat with Hebrews, even though a Hebrew is their Vice President. The beginnings of the racism that would lead to the enslavement of the Hebrews already exists.