What does Genesis 43:15 mean?
The return trip to Egypt is summarized in a single, short verse. Jacob's nine older sons set out on their mission to get grain for the family, to get Simeon back, and to return home with Benjamin safe and well (Genesis 42:11–14). They bring Jacob's gift for the Egyptian ruler, money to pay for both their last purchase of grain and this one (Genesis 42:26–28), and their youngest brother Benjamin (Genesis 42:19–20).The men now stand again before this mysterious Egyptian governor. Unknown to anyone in the group, this man is in fact Joseph (Genesis 42:8), the brother they once sold into slavery (Genesis 37:24–28). Joseph seems to have orchestrated these trials as a way of rebuking and testing his brothers, and to arrange to see his only younger brother. The moment of revelation is almost here. First, Joseph plans additional tests for his estranged family.
Genesis 43:1–15 describes how Jacob is forced to send his beloved son, Benjamin, to accompany his other sons to Egypt to buy more grain. If Benjamin doesn't go, they will not be allowed to purchase anything. This is by the order of the Egyptian governor, who the men do not realize is their long-lost brother, Joseph. Without grain, the family will starve. Jacob agrees, sending with his sons a gift for the man, along with double the amount of money needed to buy the grain. Finally, Jacob prays to God Almighty for his boys before allowing them to depart with his precious youngest son.
Jacob must send Benjamin with his brothers, back to Egypt, to buy more grain for the family. Without it, they will starve, but the Egyptian ruler will not sell them grain if they don't bring Benjamin as agreed. Speaking on behalf of his brothers, Judah finally convinces his father. Arriving in Egypt, they are honored as guests in Joseph's house. They present a gift to him—still not recognizing him as their estranged brother—and Joseph, after being overwhelmed with emotion, pays special attention to Benjamin.
