Old Testament
Genesis 43:34
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Joseph had portions of food sent to them from his own table, but Benjamin's portion was five times larger than anyone else's. They drank freely and enjoyed themselves with him.
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And he took and sent messes unto them from before him: but Benjamin’s mess was five times so much as any of theirs. And they drank, and were merry with him.
What Genesis 43:34 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph, who is now a powerful leader in Egypt, shows special favor to his younger brother Benjamin by giving him a much larger portion of food than the others. This act highlights Joseph's affection for Benjamin and his desire to create a joyful atmosphere during their meal together. The brothers, who had previously sold Joseph into slavery, are now reunited, and Joseph uses this opportunity to test their character and see how they treat Benjamin. The fact that they drank freely and enjoyed themselves indicates a sense of relief and celebration, as they are no longer in a state of fear or guilt. This moment serves as a turning point in their relationship, showcasing themes of forgiveness, family bonds, and the joy of reconciliation after a long separation.
How to apply Genesis 43:34 to your life
This verse encourages us to celebrate our relationships and show kindness to those we love. It reminds us of the importance of family and the joy that comes from reconciliation. We should strive to create joyful moments with our loved ones, just as Joseph did with his brothers.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Benjamin Comes to Egypt (Genesis 43:1–34)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: Deror Avi, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY-SA 4.0. Source. Location: Tel Shiloh archaeological site, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Where Israel set up the tabernacle, and where God called the boy Samuel.
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Joseph's act of giving Benjamin a larger portion mean?
Joseph's decision to give Benjamin a portion five times larger than the others signifies his special affection for his younger brother. This act not only highlights the bond between them but also serves as a test for the other brothers, allowing Joseph to observe their reactions and gauge their character after their past betrayal.
How does this verse illustrate the theme of reconciliation?
This verse captures a pivotal moment of reconciliation among Joseph and his brothers. After years of separation and guilt over their past actions, the joyful meal symbolizes a new beginning. Joseph's generous treatment of Benjamin fosters a sense of unity and celebration, emphasizing the healing power of forgiveness and the restoration of family ties.
What can we learn about family dynamics from this verse?
This verse teaches us about the complexities of family relationships, including favoritism and the importance of nurturing bonds. Joseph's favoritism towards Benjamin can serve as a reminder to be mindful of how we treat family members, ensuring that our actions promote love and unity rather than jealousy or division.
Why did Joseph choose to test his brothers with Benjamin?
Joseph tested his brothers by favoring Benjamin to assess their growth and character since their betrayal. He wanted to see if they would react with jealousy or protectiveness towards Benjamin, revealing whether they had changed and learned from their past mistakes.
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