Joseph’s Brothers Return with Benjamin
Genesis 43:1-34
Gen.43.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והרעב: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- כבד: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
Parallels
- Gen.41:56 (verbal): Same Joseph famine narrative; similar wording that the famine was severe/throughout the land, immediately preceding the brothers' appearance in Egypt.
- Gen.12:10 (verbal): Earlier patriarchal episode using the exact phrase 'there was a famine in the land,' motivating Abraham's descent to Egypt — a recurring narrative motif.
- Gen.26:1 (verbal): Parallel wording ('there was a famine in the land') describing a famine during Isaac's time, showing the thematic repetition across Genesis.
- Gen.47:13 (structural): Later stage of the Joseph-famine sequence describing the acute lack of bread and its social/economic consequences in Egypt and Canaan.
- Ps.105:16 (allusion): The psalm interprets the Joseph story theologically: 'He called for a famine upon the land' and then raises up Joseph, linking divine purpose to the famine motif.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the famine was severe in the land.
- And the famine was severe in the land.
Gen.43.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- כאשר: CONJ
- כלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לאכל: INF,qal
- את: PRT,acc
- השבר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- הביאו: VERB,hiphil,imperat,2,m,pl
- ממצרים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אליהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- אביהם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
- שבו: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,pl
- שברו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לנו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- מעט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אכל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Genesis 42:1 (structural): Immediate parallel in the same episode: introduces the famine and the brothers’ initial journey to Egypt to buy grain; Genesis 43:2 continues the same narrative impulse to return for more food.
- Genesis 41:56–57 (thematic): Describes the widespread famine and how people from surrounding lands came to Egypt for grain under Joseph’s provision — the larger background that makes the brothers’ trip to Egypt necessary.
- Genesis 47:13–20 (thematic): Later account of the famine’s severity, the selling of grain, and Egypt’s role as the food-supplier for the region, echoing the need that sends Jacob’s sons to Egypt in 43:2.
- Genesis 12:10 (thematic): Earlier motif of famine driving a patriarch to Egypt (Abram’s descent), showing a recurring theme in Genesis of famine prompting migration or journeys to Egypt for sustenance.
- Genesis 26:1–2 (thematic): Parallel instance where famine affects the patriarchal family (Isaac) and prompts relocation or action for survival, reinforcing the narrative pattern behind Jacob’s instruction in 43:2.
Alternative generated candidates
- And it came to pass, when they had finished eating the grain that they had brought from Egypt, that their father said to them, Return, buy us a little food.
- And it came to pass, when they had finished eating the grain that they had brought from Egypt, that their father said to them, Go back, buy for us a little food.
Gen.43.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- העד: NOUN,m,sg,def
- העד: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- לא: PART_NEG
- תראו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- פני: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- בלתי: NEG
- אחיכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+2,m,pl
- אתכם: PRT+PRON,2,m,pl
Parallels
- Gen.43:8-10 (structural): Immediate context: Judah argues to Jacob that Benjamin must go with them and offers himself as surety—this expands the same negotiation about bringing Benjamin that Genesis 43:3 introduces.
- Gen.44:18-34 (thematic): Judah's later, extended speech to Joseph echoes and develops the theme of responsibility for Benjamin and the pledge that the family will not see their father’s face without him; it shows Judah’s moral transformation.
- Gen.44:30-34 (verbal): Verse 44:30–34 repeats the specific concern that they cannot show their father his grandson unless Benjamin returns (’how shall I go up to my father… if the lad be not with me’), directly echoing the conditional formula of 43:3.
- Gen.37:26-27 (thematic): Earlier episode where Judah proposes selling Joseph shows the same brotherly responsibility theme in contrast—Judah’s role in Joseph’s fate is developed from complicity in selling to later advocacy for Benjamin.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Judah said to him, saying, The man solemnly warned us, saying, You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you.
- And Judah said to him, saying, The man solemnly warned us, saying, You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you.
Gen.43.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אם: CONJ
- ישך: VERB,qal,imperf,3,m,sg
- משלח: VERB,qal,part,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- אחינו: NOUN,m,pl,abs,poss:1pl
- אתנו: PRON,1,pl
- נרדה: VERB,qal,impf,1,pl
- ונשברה: VERB,niphal,impf,1,pl
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- אכל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.42.2 (verbal): Same basic commission to go to Egypt to obtain food for the family — both verses frame the trip as going down to buy grain because of the famine.
- Gen.42.38 (thematic): Jacob's earlier refusal to send Benjamin (fear for his life) is the counterpoint to the brothers' request here; the verse shows the tension between the brothers' plan and the father's reluctance.
- Gen.43.11 (structural): This verse records Jacob's eventual acquiescence and the preparations he gives (gifts, provisions, and permission) so that Benjamin may accompany the brothers — a direct narrative continuation of the request in Gen 43:4.
- Gen.44.34 (thematic): Judah's later pledge to remain as a hostage rather than have Benjamin taken away echoes the theme of protecting or holding back a beloved brother that motivates the request in Gen 43:4 and highlights its consequences.
Alternative generated candidates
- If you will send our brother with us, we will go down and buy you food.
- If you send our brother with us, we will go down and buy for you food.
Gen.43.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואם: CONJ
- אינך: PART_NEG,2,m,sg
- משלח: VERB,piel,part,3,m,sg
- לא: PART_NEG
- נרד: VERB,qal,imperfect,1,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אלינו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- לא: PART_NEG
- תראו: VERB,qal,imperfect,2,m,pl
- פני: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- בלתי: NEG
- אחיכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+2,m,pl
- אתכם: PRT+PRON,2,m,pl
Parallels
- Gen.43:3 (verbal): Immediate reiteration of the same condition — the brothers insist they will not go down and cannot see the man’s face unless their youngest brother (Benjamin) is with them.
- Gen.42:21-22 (thematic): Earlier reflection by the brothers about their guilt and fear of facing the Egyptian official; sets up their insistence that Benjamin accompany them and explains their reluctance to appear before the man alone.
- Gen.44:33-34 (thematic): Judah’s later plea to remain as a substitute for Benjamin and his explanation of the family’s inability to send the boy alone echo the high stakes and the brothers’ commitment that Benjamin must accompany them.
- Exod.33:20 (thematic): Uses similar language about not ‘seeing a face’ as a barrier to presence; though spoken of God, the phrasing parallels the formulaic denial of access unless a condition is met.
Alternative generated candidates
- But if you will not send him, we will not go down; for the man said to us, You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you.
- But if you do not send, we will not go down, for the man said to us, You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you.
Gen.43.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- למה: ADV
- הרעתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- לי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- להגיד: INF,hiph
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- העוד: PART,interrog
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- אח: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Genesis 37:31-35 (thematic): Brothers deceive Jacob about Joseph’s fate (coat dipped in blood) — theme of withholding truth and causing grief to their father, similar to Jacob’s reproach for not telling him about another son.
- Genesis 42:21-22 (thematic): The brothers confess their guilt concerning Joseph and acknowledge a guilty conscience—connects to the same moral awareness and secrecy that provokes Jacob’s complaint in 43:6.
- Genesis 42:36 (verbal): Jacob’s earlier lament to his sons (‘All these things are against me’) expresses the same sense of harm and bereavement caused by his sons’ actions—parallels the accusatory tone of 43:6.
- Genesis 43:8-9 (structural): Immediate narrative response (Judah’s speech) to Jacob’s question in 43:6; continues the same scene and explains why the brothers could not tell their father about Benjamin.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Israel said, Why did you do me harm, to tell the man that you still had a brother?
- And Israel said, Why did you do me harm, by telling the man, Have you another brother?
Gen.43.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- שאול: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שאל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לנו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- ולמולדתנו: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def,poss:1,pl
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- העוד: PART,interrog
- אביכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,mp
- חי: ADJ,m,sg
- היש: PART,exist
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- אח: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ונגד: CONJ+PREP
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- פי: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- הדברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- האלה: DEM,pl
- הידוע: ADJ,m,sg,def
- נדע: VERB,qal,impf,1,pl
- כי: CONJ
- יאמר: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- הורידו: VERB,hiph,impv,2,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- אחיכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+2,m,pl
Parallels
- Genesis 42:9 (verbal): When first confronted in Egypt the brothers similarly insist they are not spies—same defensive formula ('we are true men' / 'we are no spies') used in response to the official's questioning.
- Genesis 42:13 (structural): Earlier in the same interrogation the brothers frame their identity in family terms (twelve brothers, one remaining at home) to explain their presence—parallel structure to the later appeal about their father and brother.
- Genesis 44:18–34 (thematic): Judah's later plea before the Egyptian official centers on the same family-piety theme (appeals regarding his father and the fate of a brother), continuing the motif of protecting family identity and responsibility under accusation.
- Numbers 13:1–2, 17–20 (thematic): The commissioning and reporting of spies into Canaan provides a broader biblical parallel for the motif of 'spies' and official interrogation/reporting—echoing the danger and consequences associated with being accused or sent as spies.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they said, The man questioned us closely about us and about our kindred, saying, Is your father still alive? Have you a brother? And we told him according to these words; could we indeed have known that he would say, Bring down your brother?
- And they said, The man questioned us closely about us and about our kindred, saying, Is your father still alive? Have you a brother? And we told him according to these words. Could we in any way have known that he would say, Bring down your brother?
Gen.43.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יהודה: NOUN,m,sg,prop
- אל: NEG
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אביו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3,m,sg
- שלחה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
- הנער: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אתי: PRON,1,sg
- ונקומה: VERB,qal,impf,1,c,pl
- ונלכה: VERB,qal,imprf,1,_,pl
- ונחיה: CONJ+VERB,qal,impf,1,pl
- ולא: CONJ
- נמות: VERB,qal,imperfect,1,_,pl
- גם: ADV
- אנחנו: PRON,1,pl
- גם: ADV
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- גם: ADV
- טפנו: NOUN,m,pl,abs+1pl
Parallels
- Genesis 44:33-34 (verbal): Judah repeats and intensifies the same concern for Benjamin, offering himself as a substitute to secure the boy’s safety — a direct continuation and development of the plea begun in 43:8.
- Genesis 42:38 (thematic): Jacob’s earlier refusal to send Benjamin for fear of losing him expresses the same family-preserving anxiety and threat to the remaining son that underlies Judah’s argument in 43:8.
- Genesis 37:26-27 (thematic): Judah’s prior counsel to spare Joseph’s life (proposing sale rather than murder) shows his role as a protector/pragmatist among the brothers, paralleling his leadership and concern for family survival in 43:8.
- Genesis 45:7-11 (thematic): Joseph’s later provision for his family in Egypt vindicates the motive of preserving family life that motivates Judah’s plea in 43:8 and completes the narrative arc of survival and restoration.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Judah said to Israel his father, Send the lad with me, and let us arise and go, that we may live and not die, both we and you and also our little ones.
- And Judah said to Israel his father, Send the lad with me, and let us arise and go, that we may live and not die—we and you and also our little ones.
Gen.43.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- אנכי: PRON,1,sg
- אערבנו: VERB,qal,impf,1,m,sg
- מידי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- תבקשנו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- אם: CONJ
- לא: PART_NEG
- הביאתיו: VERB,qal,perf,1,m,sg
- אליך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- והצגתיו: CONJ+VERB,hiph,perf,1,m,sg
- לפניך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- וחטאתי: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,1,sg
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
- כל: DET
- הימים: NOUN,m,pl,def
Parallels
- Gen.42:37 (verbal): Almost identical pledge earlier in the narrative: Judah offers himself as surety for Benjamin, using the same language about bringing the boy back and bearing the blame if he fails.
- Gen.44:33-34 (thematic): Later repetition and intensification of Judah’s vow during Joseph’s test — Judah again offers himself for Benjamin, even willing to become a slave, echoing the surety motif and personal responsibility language.
- Prov.6:1-5 (thematic): A proverbial warning against becoming surety/guarantor: contrasts the risky social/legal practice Judah willingly accepts by pledging himself for another’s return.
- Prov.17:18 (thematic): Notes the foolishness of rash guarantees (one who gives security for a stranger); thematically related to the social-legal consequences and personal risk entailed in Judah’s pledge.
Alternative generated candidates
- I will be surety for him; from my hand you may seek him. If I do not bring him to you and set him before you, then I shall have sinned against you all the days.
- I myself will be surety for him; from my hand you shall require him. If I do not bring him to you and set him before you, I shall have sinned against you all the days.
Gen.43.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- לולא: CONJ
- התמהמהנו: VERB,hitp,perf,1,?,pl
- כי: CONJ
- עתה: ADV
- שבנו: VERB,qal,perf,1,?,pl
- זה: PRON,dem,m,sg
- פעמים: NOUN,m,du,abs
Parallels
- Gen.42:20 (structural): Describes the brothers' first trip to Egypt and their return to Jacob — provides the narrative background for the “second time” mentioned in 43:10.
- Gen.43:1-5 (structural): Immediate context: Jacob’s eventual consent to send the sons back to Egypt because of continuing famine; explains why a second journey becomes necessary.
- Gen.44:18-34 (thematic): Judah’s later speech (when Benjamin is accused) develops the consequences and moral stakes of the second trip — themes of responsibility, delay, and the brothers’ changed behavior.
- Eccles.11:4 (thematic): Generic proverb against waiting/hesitation (‘whoever watches the wind will not sow’) — thematically parallels the idea that delay (התמהמהנו) affects action and outcomes.
Alternative generated candidates
- For had we not delayed, surely by now we would have returned twice.
- For if we had not delayed, surely by now we would have returned twice.
Gen.43.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אלהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אביהם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
- אם: CONJ
- כן: ADV
- אפוא: PART
- זאת: DEM,f,sg
- עשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- קחו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- מזמרת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- בכליכם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,const+PRON,2,m,pl
- והורידו: CONJ+VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מנחה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מעט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- צרי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומעט: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- דבש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נכאת: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ולט: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בטנים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ושקדים: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Genesis 32:13-20 (thematic): Jacob prepares and sends a large ‘present’ to appease Esau before their meeting—same motif of taking gifts to placate a powerful or feared person.
- Genesis 33:8-11 (thematic): After Jacob’s gift-offering, Esau accepts the presents—parallel in the social function of gifts as reconciliation and goodwill.
- Genesis 43:26 (structural): In the same narrative the brothers actually present the מִנְחָה to the Egyptian official (Joseph) — a direct narrative fulfillment of Jacob’s instruction in v.11.
- Genesis 41:41-42 (thematic): Pharaoh gives Joseph garments, a signet ring, and a chariot—example of bestowing gifts/honor by a ruler or powerful official, echoing the exchange of presents to secure favor or recognition.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Israel their father said to them, If it is so, then do this: take of the choice produce of the land in your bags, and carry down to the man a gift— a little balm, and a little honey, aromatic gum and resin, pistachios and almonds.
- And Israel their father said to them, If so, then do this: take from the choice of the land in your bags, and bring down to the man a gift: a little balm and a little honey, gum and resin, pistachios and almonds.
Gen.43.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וכסף: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- משנה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- קחו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- בידכם: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- ואת: CONJ
- הכסף: NOUN,m,sg,def
- המושב: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בפי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,construct
- אמתחתיכם: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- תשיבו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- בידכם: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- אולי: ADV
- משגה: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.42:25 (verbal): Same action: Joseph’s steward puts each man’s money into the mouth of his sack and returns provisions — the language and motif of money placed/returned in the sacks is parallel to 43:12’s instruction about the money in their sacks.
- Gen.42:27-28 (structural): The brothers discover the money in their sacks and are terrified; this event immediately precedes 43:12 and explains Joseph’s caution ('peradventure it was an oversight'), linking the found money motif across the episodes.
- Gen.44:1-12 (thematic): Joseph’s later test (the silver cup placed in Benjamin’s sack and the subsequent discovery) repeats the motif of money/items placed in a sack as evidence in a devised test — a structural and thematic parallel to the returned money and suspicion in 43:12.
- Gen.43:11 (verbal): Immediate companion verse in the same scene: the brothers are told to bring a present and to take double money for the journey — 43:11–12 form a unit instructing both gifts and payment, with overlapping language about ‘double money’ and the sacks’ money.
Alternative generated candidates
- And take double money in your hand, and the money that was returned in the mouth of your sacks you shall return in your hand—perhaps it was an oversight.
- And take double money in your hand, and the money that was returned in the mouth of your sacks you shall return in your hand—perhaps it was a mistake.
Gen.43.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואת: CONJ
- אחיכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+2,m,pl
- קחו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- וקומו: CONJ+VERB,qal,imp,2,pl
- שובו: VERB,qal,imp,2,pl
- אל: NEG
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Genesis 42:20 (verbal): The Egyptian steward earlier commands them to bring a brother to prove their story—an earlier formulation of the same instruction to 'bring your brother.'
- Genesis 43:8-9 (structural): Judah urges Jacob to send Benjamin with them and offers to be surety—immediately prior negotiation that leads to the order in 43:13 to take the brother and return to the man.
- Genesis 44:33-34 (thematic): Judah's later plea to Jacob to let him remain instead of Benjamin echoes the theme of responsibility for and protection of a brother after Benjamin is taken to the Egyptian official.
- Genesis 45:14-15 (structural): Joseph's emotional reunion with Benjamin after he is brought to Egypt shows the narrative consequence of obeying the command to 'take your brother' and return to the man.
Alternative generated candidates
- And take your brother; and arise, return to the man.
- And take your brother; and arise, return to the man.
Gen.43.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואל: CONJ+PREP
- שדי: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יתן: VERB,qal,imperf,3,m,sg
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- רחמים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לפני: PREP
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ושלח: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- אחיכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+2,m,pl
- אחר: PREP
- ואת: CONJ
- בנימין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ואני: PRON,1,sg
- כאשר: CONJ
- שכלתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,m,sg
- שכלתי: VERB,qal,perf,1,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.37:34-35 (thematic): Jacob's earlier mourning over the (supposedly) lost Joseph; same theme of parental bereavement and anguish.
- Gen.42:36 (verbal): Jacob's immediate prior reaction to news about his sons — 'me have ye bereaved' — echoes the fear of further loss expressed in 43:14.
- Gen.44:34 (verbal): A near-identical formula ('if I be bereaved, I am bereaved') recurs later when Jacob speaks of losing Benjamin, repeating the same resignation.
- Gen.45:5-8 (thematic): Joseph's later disclosure that God sent him to preserve life links 43:14's appeal to divine mercy (El Shaddai) with the theme of God's providential purposes in the brothers' suffering.
- Gen.28:3 (verbal): Uses the same divine title 'El Shaddai' in a blessing formula; 43:14 likewise invokes God Almighty to grant mercy to the sons before the ruler.
Alternative generated candidates
- And El Shaddai grant you mercy before the man, and send back to you your other brother and Benjamin; and as for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved.
- And El Shaddai grant you mercy before the man, and may he release to you your other brother and Benjamin; and as for me, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved.
Gen.43.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויקחו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- את: PRT,acc
- המנחה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- הזאת: DEM,f,sg,def
- ומשנה: CONJ+NOUN,f,sg,ind
- כסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לקחו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- בידם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- ואת: CONJ
- בנימן: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- ויקמו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- וירדו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ויעמדו: CONJ+VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- לפני: PREP
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Genesis 42:25–28 (structural): Earlier episode in the same narrative where the steward returns the brothers' money into their sacks—explains and structurally links the money motif that recurs when they return to Egypt.
- Genesis 43:11 (verbal): Jacob’s instruction to take a present down to the man (Joseph) parallels the action here; the language and purpose (bringing a gift to secure favor) are the same.
- Genesis 43:27 (verbal): Immediate parallel within the chapter: the brothers actually present the gift before Joseph, echoing the wording and the ritual action of presenting the 'present' mentioned in 43:15.
- Genesis 44:1–5 (thematic): Continues the motif of Benjamin being singled out and of Joseph testing his brothers—money, a planted item (the cup), and the brothers standing before Joseph are all developed here.
- Genesis 46:6–7 (thematic): Jacob’s later descent to Egypt with his household resonates with the motif of going down to Egypt with family; both passages frame Egypt as the place of family relocation and confrontation with Egyptian authority.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the men took this gift, and they took double money in their hand, and Benjamin; and they rose and went down to Egypt and stood before Joseph.
- And the men took this gift, and double money they took in their hand, and Benjamin; and they arose and went down to Egypt and stood before Joseph.
Gen.43.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- בנימין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לאשר: CONJ
- על: PREP
- ביתו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הבא: NOUN,m,sg,def
- את: PRT,acc
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- הביתה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וטבח: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- טבח: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- והכן: VERB,hiph,impv,2,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- אתי: PRON,1,sg
- יאכלו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- בצהרים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
Parallels
- Genesis 43:25 (structural): Same scene continued — the steward brings the brothers into Joseph’s house, they are washed and set before him, and the meal is served; directly parallels the command to prepare and host them.
- Genesis 45:1-3 (thematic): Joseph’s eventual revelation to his brothers follows the pattern of meals as occasions of recognition and family reconciliation initiated in Genesis 43.
- Genesis 18:1-8 (verbal): Abraham orders a calf to be slaughtered and prepared for his unexpected guests — a similar imperative to ‘slay and make ready’ in order to feed visitors.
- John 21:12-14 (thematic): After his resurrection Jesus invites the disciples to a prepared meal ('come and have breakfast'); like Joseph’s hospitality, a shared meal becomes the context for recognition and restoration.
- Luke 24:30-31 (thematic): On the road to Emmaus Jesus is recognized in the breaking of bread — parallels the motif of recognition revealed through a shared meal in Genesis 43.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Joseph saw Benjamin with them, and he said to the one over his house, Bring the men into the house, and slaughter an animal and make ready; for with me the men will eat at noon.
- And Joseph saw Benjamin with them, and he said to the one over his house, Bring the men into the house, and slaughter an animal and prepare; for the men will eat with me at noon.
Gen.43.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעש: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- כאשר: CONJ
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- את: PRT,acc
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ביתה: NOUN,m,sg,suff-3,f,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.43.16 (verbal): Immediate textual parallel — verse 16 records Joseph's instruction to his steward, and 43:17 reports the steward's following of that instruction (command followed by execution).
- Gen.44:1-5 (structural): Same steward motif later in the narrative: Joseph again issues a covert command to his household steward (to plant the cup and accuse Benjamin) and the steward carries it out, paralleling the pattern of a servant executing Joseph's orders.
- Gen.42:25-27 (verbal): Earlier instance where Joseph gives orders to his household official (to fill the brothers' sacks and restore their money) and the official implements them — a parallel example of Joseph directing actions through his steward/household officers.
- Gen.41:41-43 (thematic): Establishes Joseph's official authority (Pharaoh placing him over all Egypt), the background reason why his commands to household officers are obeyed; thematically parallels the obedience shown in 43:17.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the man did as Joseph had said, and the man brought the men into Joseph’s house.
- And the man did as Joseph said, and the man brought the men into Joseph’s house.
Gen.43.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וייראו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- כי: CONJ
- הובאו: VERB,hufal,perf,3,m,pl
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- על: PREP
- דבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הכסף: NOUN,m,sg,def
- השב: VERB,hif,imp,2,m,sg
- באמתחתינו: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,pl
- בתחלה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- אנחנו: PRON,1,pl
- מובאים: VERB,pual,part,3,m,pl
- להתגלל: VERB,hitpael,inf
- עלינו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- ולהתנפל: CONJ+VERB,hitpael,inf
- עלינו: PREP+PRON,1,pl
- ולקחת: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- אתנו: PRON,1,pl
- לעבדים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- חמרינו: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,1,pl
Parallels
- Gen.42:21-28 (verbal): The immediately preceding episode: the brothers recognize that the silver was put back in their sacks, are terrified and fear they will be detained—language and situation closely echo Gen.43:18.
- Gen.42:36-38 (thematic): Reuben (and Jacob’s household) express anguish over the lost money and the danger it brings—shows the brothers’ ongoing fear of punishment, loss, and being separated or sold.
- Gen.44:12-34 (structural): A later parallel where money is found in Benjamin’s sack, prompting fear of judgment, potential imprisonment/enslavement, and Judah’s plea to spare his father—repeats the motif of returned money producing terror and threat of bondage.
- Gen.37:26-28 (thematic): The brothers’ earlier act of selling Joseph into slavery establishes the background motif of fraternal betrayal and the threat of being sold or enslaved—provides narrative context for fears of being taken as slaves.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the men were afraid because they were brought into Joseph’s house; and they said, On account of the money that was returned in our sacks at the first we are brought in, to bring a charge against us and to fall upon us, and to take us for slaves, and our donkeys.
- And the men were afraid because they were brought to Joseph’s house; and they said, On account of the money that was returned in our sacks at the first we are brought—to bring a charge against us and to fall upon us, and to take us for slaves, and our donkeys.
Gen.43.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויגשו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- על: PREP
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וידברו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- פתח: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הבית: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Genesis 43:15 (quotation): Same scene immediately before/after v.19: the steward (the man over Joseph’s house) speaks to the brothers at the house entrance — a direct speech-parallel within the chapter.
- Genesis 43:23 (verbal): The steward addresses the men with words of welcome and notes the returned money (‘I received your money’); same official and location (house/door), continuing the interaction begun in v.19.
- Genesis 44:2–5 (structural): The steward carries out Joseph’s orders regarding the brothers’ provisions and the planting of the silver cup in Benjamin’s sack — a later episode that continues the steward’s role introduced when the brothers approach the house.
- Genesis 42:25 (thematic): Earlier, Joseph’s household/officials restored the brothers’ money into their sacks; thematically related to the steward’s handling of the brothers’ funds and goods when they come to Joseph’s house.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they approached the man who was over Joseph’s house, and they spoke to him at the entrance of the house.
- And they drew near to the man who was over Joseph’s house and spoke to him at the entrance of the house,
Gen.43.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- בי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- אדני: NOUN,m,sg,abs,1,sg
- ירד: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- ירדנו: VERB,qal,perf,1,pl
- בתחלה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- לשבר: VERB,qal,inf
- אכל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Genesis 42:36 (thematic): Jacob’s lament after the first journey—he expresses that his sons have caused him grief and that he is an old man; both passages appeal to the patriarch’s age and vulnerability.
- Genesis 44:30–31 (quotation): Brothers explicitly plead that if Benjamin is taken their father will die; this repeats and intensifies the same appeal to the father’s old age and the danger of losing another son.
- Genesis 47:8–9 (thematic): When Pharaoh asks Jacob his age, Jacob describes his years as few and hard—another statement foregrounding the motif of the aged patriarch and his frailty.
- Genesis 48:10 (thematic): “Now the eyes of Israel were dim” — a later depiction of Jacob’s advanced age that echoes the same concern for an elderly, weakened father figure present in Genesis 43:20.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they said, Please, my lord, we indeed came down at the first to buy food.
- and they said, Please, my lord, we indeed went down at the first to buy food.
Gen.43.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויהי: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- באנו: VERB,qal,perf,1,c,pl
- אל: NEG
- המלון: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ונפתחה: VERB,niphal,perf,3,f,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- אמתחתינו: NOUN,f,pl,suff
- והנה: ADV
- כסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בפי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,construct
- אמתחתו: NOUN,f,sg,suff
- כספנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,1,pl
- במשקלו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,suff
- ונשב: VERB,qal,perf,1,_,pl
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- בידנו: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,suff
Parallels
- Genesis 42:27-28 (verbal): Earlier report of the same incident: when the brothers opened their sacks the money was found in each man's sack — very similar wording and the same miraculous return of money.
- Genesis 44:12-13 (structural): Repetition of the scene later in the narrative: the brothers' sacks are opened, their money is found, and additionally Joseph's cup is discovered in Benjamin's sack — a narrative echo that heightens the plot.
- Genesis 37:26-28 (thematic): The brothers sell Joseph for silver; money functions as a key motive and moral complication in the brothers' relationships across the Joseph cycle.
- Psalm 105:17-22 (thematic): A poetic summary of Joseph's trials and God's providential control (testing, imprisonment, exaltation) — thematically connects to the episodes in which God directs events like the returned money.
Alternative generated candidates
- And it came to pass, when we came to the lodging place and opened our sacks, that behold, each man’s money was in the mouth of his sack—our money in its full weight; and we have brought it back in our hand.
- And it came to pass, when we came to the lodging place and opened our sacks, behold, each man’s money was in the mouth of his sack—our money in its full weight—and we have brought it back in our hand.
Gen.43.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וכסף: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחר: PREP
- הורדנו: VERB,hif,perf,1,_,pl
- בידנו: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,_,pl
- לשבר: VERB,qal,inf
- אכל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לא: PART_NEG
- ידענו: VERB,qal,perf,1,pl
- מי: PRON,interr,sg
- שם: ADV
- כספנו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,1,pl
- באמתחתינו: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,1,_,pl
Parallels
- Gen.43.21 (verbal): Immediate parallel language — the brothers insist they brought money down in their sacks' mouths, the preceding clause to v.22's complaint.
- Gen.42.27 (structural): Reports the moment the brothers find their money returned in their sacks; same episode and action (money found/placed in sacks) that v.22 refers to.
- Gen.42.35-36 (thematic): Describes the brothers' alarm and confusion when they discover the money and cannot explain who put it there — the same fear expressed in v.22.
- Gen.44.2-12 (thematic): Joseph's later test in which a valuable object (the cup) is secretly placed in a brother's sack — parallels the motif of planted items in sacks as a means of accusation/testing.
- Gen.37.28 (thematic): The sale of Joseph for silver pieces introduces the recurring theme of silver and brotherly treachery that frames the episode of money in the sacks.
Alternative generated candidates
- And other money have we brought down in our hand to buy food; we do not know who put our money in our sacks.
- And other money have we brought down in our hand to buy food; we do not know who put our money in our sacks.
Gen.43.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שלום: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- תיראו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- אלהיכם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- ואלהי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- אביכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,mp
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- מטמון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- באמתחתיכם: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- כספכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- בא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- ויוצא: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- אלהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- שמעון: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.42:25-28 (verbal): Same episode immediately prior: the brothers discover the money returned in their sacks and are terrified — the 'money in your sacks' motif and their fear are directly paralleled.
- Gen.44:12-17 (structural): Later scene uses the same device (placing an object in a brother's sack) as a test; continues the narrative pattern of treasure/objects hidden in sacks and the ensuing accusation and fear.
- Gen.46:3 (verbal): God-identification + reassurance formula: 'I am God, the God of your father; fear not' parallels the 'be not afraid… your God and the God of your father' reassurance in Gen 43:23.
- Gen.45:5-8 (thematic): Joseph explicitly interprets his actions and the events as directed by God ('God sent me before you… to preserve life'), echoing Gen 43:23’s attribution of the 'treasure' to God’s providence.
- Gen.50:20 (thematic): Joseph’s later theological interpretation — that what was meant for evil God meant for good — resonates with Gen 43:23’s presentation of apparent loss/benefit (money/treasure) as part of God’s providential working.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he said, Peace to you; do not fear. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks; your money came to me. And he brought out to them Simeon.
- And he said, Peace to you; do not fear. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks; your money came to me. And he brought Simeon out to them.
Gen.43.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- האיש: NOUN,m,sg,def
- את: PRT,acc
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- ביתה: NOUN,m,sg,suff-3,f,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- מים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- וירחצו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- רגליהם: NOUN,f,pl,abs+3,m,pl
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- מספוא: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לחמריהם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs+3,m,pl
Parallels
- Gen.18:4 (verbal): Abraham invites guests to rest and explicitly provides water for washing feet as part of household hospitality — close verbal and situational parallel.
- Gen.24:18-20,32-33 (structural): Abraham’s servant (and Rebekah) give water to a traveler and provide food/room for beasts — a similar host/guest pattern including watering animals and provisioning.
- Judg.19:17-21 (verbal): A host brings travelers into his house, has their feet washed and provides lodging/provision for animals — a darker but directly comparable episode of domestic hospitality.
- John 13:4-5 (verbal): Jesus pours water and washes the disciples’ feet; while theological in purpose, it echoes the practice of foot‑washing as service and hospitality in the OT narrative.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the man brought the men into Joseph’s house, and gave water, and they washed their feet; and he gave fodder for their donkeys.
- And the man brought the men into Joseph’s house and gave water, and they washed their feet; and he gave fodder to their donkeys.
Gen.43.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויכינו: VERB,hif,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- המנחה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- עד: PREP
- בוא: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בצהרים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- כי: CONJ
- שמעו: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- שם: ADV
- יאכלו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.43.11 (verbal): Same instruction to take a 'present' (מנחה) to the man in Egypt — the gift motif and the specific term מנחה are used earlier in the chapter as the brothers prepare provisions to present to Joseph.
- Gen.43.26–27 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel: Joseph's arrival, the bringing of the present into his house, and the brothers' prostration — this continues the action begun in v.25 (preparing the present until Joseph came).
- Gen.33:8–11 (thematic): Jacob and Esau's reconciliation: Jacob offers gifts to appease Esau and they share a meal. Parallels the use of gifts and eating together as signs of reconciliation and restored relationship between estranged brothers.
- 1 Sam.25:18–19 (thematic): Abigail hastily prepares and brings food and provisions as a 'present' to David to appease him. The scene parallels the motif of bringing provisions/gifts to a powerful man and using a shared meal to secure favor or avert conflict.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they prepared the gift until Joseph came at noon; for they had heard that there they would eat bread.
- And they prepared the gift until Joseph came at noon, for they had heard that there they would eat bread.
Gen.43.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הביתה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויביאו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- המנחה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- בידם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- הביתה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וישתחוו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- ארצה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Genesis 42:6 (verbal): When Joseph's brothers first come to Egypt they 'bowed down before him with their faces to the earth'—a direct verbal and situational parallel to the same act of prostration in 43:26.
- Genesis 37:7 (allusion): Joseph's earlier dream in which his brothers' sheaves bow to his sheaf foreshadows the actual physical bowing of his brothers before him in Egypt (the thematic fulfillment of the dream).
- Genesis 41:43 (structural): Pharaoh's command that people 'bow the knee' to Joseph after his elevation frames bowing as the culturally appropriate recognition of Joseph's authority, paralleling the brothers' prostration in 43:26.
- Genesis 44:14 (verbal): In the later episode when Joseph confronts his brothers again, they 'bow themselves' before him—another close verbal and narrative parallel showing repeated acts of prostration in the Joseph cycle.
- Genesis 50:18 (thematic): After Jacob's death Joseph's brothers 'fell down before him' and confessed themselves servants—this later bowing echoes 43:26 and completes the theme of submission, repentance, and recognition across the narrative.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Joseph came home, and they brought to him the gift that was in their hand into the house, and they bowed down to him to the ground.
- And Joseph came home, and they brought to him the gift that was in their hand into the house, and they bowed to him to the ground.
Gen.43.27 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישאל: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- לשלום: PREP
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- השלום: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אביכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,mp
- הזקן: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אמרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- העודנו: INT
- חי: ADJ,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.42.7 (verbal): Nearly identical wording earlier in the narrative when Joseph first confronts his brothers: he inquires about their welfare and asks, 'Is your father well…? Is he yet alive?'
- Gen.44.20 (thematic): The brothers describe their father to Judah as 'an old man' and plead for Benjamin’s return, echoing the concern for Jacob’s advanced age and well‑being expressed in Gen 43:27.
- Gen.45.25-27 (verbal): The brothers report to Jacob that 'Joseph is yet alive,' reversing the question 'Is he yet alive?' and completing the narrative arc about Joseph’s presumed death and ultimate survival.
- Gen.37.31-35 (allusion): Jacob’s earlier belief that Joseph was dead (he 'refused to be comforted') provides the background for why inquiries about whether the old father is 'yet alive' carry such emotional and narrative weight.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he inquired of them concerning their welfare, and said, Is it well with your aged father of whom you spoke? Is he still alive?
- And he asked them of their welfare, and said, Is it well with your aged father of whom you spoke? Is he still alive?
Gen.43.28 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמרו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,pl
- שלום: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לעבדך: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- לאבינו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs,1pl.poss
- עודנו: ADV
- חי: ADJ,m,sg
- ויקדו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- וישתחוו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Gen.37.9-10 (thematic): Joseph's dreams foresee his brothers bowing to him; Gen 43:28 narrates a concrete fulfillment of that motif (brothers bowing before the Egyptian official).
- Gen.42.6 (verbal): When the brothers first appear before Joseph they 'bowed down' (uses same verb וישתחוו/bow), a close verbal echo of the action in 43:28.
- Gen.42.21-22 (thematic): The brothers' earlier conversations reveal fear, guilt, and their explanation about their father and Benjamin—background to their repeated formulaic protest 'your servant, our father, is yet alive' in 43:28.
- Gen.43.26-27 (structural): Immediate narrative context: the brothers' presentation of Benjamin and their prostration before Joseph; 43:28 continues and reiterates the formal greeting and bowing within the same scene.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they said, It is well with your servant our father; he is still alive. And they bowed and prostrated themselves.
- And they said, It is well with your servant our father; he is still alive. And they bowed and prostrated themselves.
Gen.43.29 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישא: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עיניו: NOUN,f,pl,suff
- וירא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- בנימין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- בן: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אמו: NOUN,f,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- הזה: DEM,m,sg
- אחיכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+2,m,pl
- הקטן: ADJ,m,sg,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אמרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- יחנך: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg+2ms
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
Parallels
- Gen.42.8 (verbal): Same motif of recognition: Joseph 'recognized' his brothers though they did not recognize him — sets up the later explicit sighting of Benjamin in 43:29.
- Gen.43.30 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: Joseph's emotional response on seeing Benjamin (he hurries out and weeps), showing the affective force of the recognition reported in 43:29.
- Gen.45.3-4 (allusion): Later episode of ultimate disclosure: after further testing Joseph reveals himself to his brothers. 43:29 is a turning point toward that revelation (recognition leads to eventual confession).
- Luke 15:20 (thematic): The prodigal-father reunion parallels the theme of recognition and compassionate response on seeing a lost family member — both scenes emphasize emotional restoration at reunion.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he lifted up his eyes and saw Benjamin his brother, his mother’s son, and said, Is this your youngest brother of whom you spoke to me? And he said, God be gracious to you, my son.
- And he lifted up his eyes and saw Benjamin his brother, his mother’s son, and he said, Is this your youngest brother of whom you spoke to me? And he said, God be gracious to you, my son.
Gen.43.30 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וימהר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- נכמרו: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,pl
- רחמיו: NOUN,m,pl,suff3ms
- אל: NEG
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- ויבקש: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- לבכות: VERB,qal,inf
- ויבא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- החדרה: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ויבך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- שמה: ADV
Parallels
- Genesis 42:24 (verbal): Earlier in the Joseph story his compassion likewise causes him to turn away and weep; the narrative uses similar language about his heart being moved and seeking to weep.
- Genesis 45:1-2 (thematic): At the moment of revealing his identity Joseph can no longer contain himself and weeps aloud before others—another intense emotional disclosure tied to recognition and reunion.
- Genesis 45:14-15 (verbal): A close parallel scene in which Joseph embraces Benjamin and weeps on his neck; the physical embrace and weeping mirror the compassion shown in 43:30.
- Genesis 46:29 (thematic): When Jacob arrives in Egypt Joseph meets him, falls on his neck and weeps—another reunion scene linking family recognition with tears of compassion and joy.
- John 11:35 (thematic): The shortest New Testament verse ('Jesus wept') offers a thematic cross-reference: compassionate weeping as an appropriate response to grief and relational pain.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Joseph hurried, for his compassions were stirred toward his brother, and he sought to weep; and he went into the chamber and wept there.
- And Joseph hurried, for his compassion grew warm toward his brother; and he sought a place to weep, and he went into the chamber and wept there.
Gen.43.31 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וירחץ: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- פניו: NOUN,m,pl,cons+3,m,sg
- ויצא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- ויתאפק: VERB,hitpael,impf,3,m,sg
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שימו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.45:1–2 (structural): Contrastive parallel: here Joseph restrains himself (Gen 43:31); later he can no longer contain his emotions and openly reveals his identity (Gen 45:1–2), showing a deliberate narrative movement from concealment to disclosure.
- Gen.18:6–8 (thematic): Hospitality motif — Abraham hastens to prepare and set food before his guests. Like Joseph’s command “set bread,” both passages use the serving of food as a central gesture of hosting and testing/engagement with visitors.
- 2 Sam.12:20–22 (thematic): David rises, washes, changes clothes and returns to his house after a period of mourning — an act of composure and resumption of duties. Parallels Joseph’s washing and self-control before re-engaging with his brothers and the meal.
- Luke 24:30–31 (thematic): At Emmaus Jesus takes, blesses and breaks bread and is then recognized by the disciples. The serving/breaking of bread functions as the pivotal moment of revelation in both scenes (Joseph’s meal precedes later recognition/revelation).
Alternative generated candidates
- And he washed his face and went out, and restrained himself, and said, Set on the bread.
- And he washed his face and went out, and restrained himself, and said, Set out the bread.
Gen.43.32 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישימו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- לבדו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- ולהם: CONJ+PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- לבדם: ADV+PRON,3,m,pl
- ולמצרים: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- האכלים: PART,qal,ptcp,act,m,pl,def
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- לבדם: ADV+PRON,3,m,pl
- כי: CONJ
- לא: PART_NEG
- יוכלון: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- המצרים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לאכל: INF,qal
- את: PRT,acc
- העברים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- לחם: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- תועבה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- למצרים: PREP+NOUN,prop,m,pl
Parallels
- Leviticus 11:43-45 (verbal): Uses the same Hebrew term to'evah ('abomination') and addresses avoidance of things considered ritually detestable—paralleling Egyptians' refusal to eat with Hebrews as an 'abomination.'
- Leviticus 20:26 (thematic): Articulates the theme of separation between Israel and surrounding peoples (be holy/separate), which underlies social taboos like the Egyptians' refusal to dine with Hebrews.
- Ezra 9:1-2 (verbal): Speaks of Israelites 'mingling' with the peoples of the land and taking their 'abominations'—echoing the language and social concern over contact with foreigners found in Gen 43:32.
- Nehemiah 13:23-27 (thematic): Describes the social and moral problems Nehemiah finds when Israelites intermarry and mingle with foreign peoples, reflecting the wider biblical concern with separation from non-Israelites evident in Gen 43:32.
- Acts 10:28 (thematic): Peter's declaration that God has made Gentiles clean and his willingness to eat with them contrasts directly with the earlier taboo (Egyptians refusing to eat with Hebrews), highlighting changing attitudes about dining with outsiders in the New Testament.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they set for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians who ate with him by themselves; for the Egyptians could not eat bread with the Hebrews, for that is an abomination to the Egyptians.
- And they set for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians who ate with him by themselves; for the Egyptians could not eat bread with the Hebrews, for that is an abomination to the Egyptians.
Gen.43.33 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישבו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- לפניו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- הבכר: NOUN,m,sg,def
- כבכרתו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- והצעיר: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,def
- כצערתו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- ויתמהו: VERB,hitpael,impf,3,m,pl
- האנשים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- רעהו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
Parallels
- Gen.43.32 (verbal): Immediate verbal parallel in the same scene — the brothers are described as seated 'the firstborn according to his birthright, and the younger according to his youth.'
- Gen.43.34 (structural): Continues the banquet context (drinking and rejoicing); links the wonder expressed in 43:33 to the larger meal and attendants' reaction.
- Gen.45.3 (thematic): When Joseph reveals himself the brothers react with astonishment and dismay; thematically parallels the motif of marveling/amazement in the Joseph narrative.
- Deut.21.17 (thematic): Legal specification of the firstborn's rights and inheritance ('the birthright'); provides the legal/cultural background for the phrase 'the firstborn according to his birthright.'
- 1 Chr.5.1 (thematic): Notes the transfer of the birthright to Joseph's line (because Reuben lost it); thematically illuminates the significance of 'the firstborn' and birthright in Israelite tradition.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright and the youngest according to his youth; and the men marveled, each to his fellow.
- And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright, and the youngest according to his youth; and the men marveled one to another.
Gen.43.34 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישא: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- משאת: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מאת: PREP
- פניו: NOUN,m,pl,cons+3,m,sg
- אלהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- ותרב: VERB,qal,impf,3,f,sg
- משאת: NOUN,f,sg,cs
- בנימן: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- ממשאת: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,cs
- כלם: PRON,3,m,pl
- חמש: NUM,card,f,sg
- ידות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- וישתו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- וישכרו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- עמו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.43.23-27 (structural): Immediate context of the same scene: Joseph seats and serves his brothers, provides food and drink, and treats Benjamin with special attention — these verses describe the same hospitable action that culminates in v.34.
- Gen.45.22 (verbal): When Joseph later sends gifts to his brothers he 'gave every man changes of raiment' ( garments/changes of clothes), echoing the language and motif of Joseph provisioning Benjamin with additional garments in 43:34.
- Gen.44.2–17 (thematic): The later episode in which Joseph's steward plants a silver cup in Benjamin’s sack and Benjamin is accused — connects to 43:34’s special favor toward Benjamin and to the testing of the brothers’ loyalty that follows.
- Gen.44:20 (allusion): Jacob’s deep love for Benjamin ('my son, my son' / Benjamin as the beloved son) helps explain the extraordinary care and gifts Benjamin receives in 43:34 and the brothers’ protective response later.
- Gen.45:16-20 (thematic): After Joseph reveals himself he again provides food, gifts, and escort for his family — a parallel instance of generous hospitality and provision that frames the reconciliation begun in chapters 42–45.
Alternative generated candidates
- And portions were carried from before him to them, and Benjamin’s portion was greater than the portions of all of them—five times as much. And they drank and were merry with him.
- And he had portions taken from before him to them; and Benjamin’s portion was greater than any of theirs—five portions; and they drank and were merry with him.
And the famine was heavy in the land. And it was, when they had finished eating the grain which they had brought from Egypt, that their father said to them, Return, buy for us a little food. And Judah said to him, saying, The man solemnly warned us, saying, You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you.
If you will send our brother with us, we will go down and buy for you food;
but if you will not send, we will not go down, for the man said to us, You shall not see my face unless your brother is with you. And Israel said, Why did you do me harm by telling the man that you still have a brother? And they said, The man asked, asking about us and about our kindred, saying, Is your father still alive? Have you a brother? And we told him according to these words. Could we in any way have known that he would say, Bring down your brother? And Judah said to Israel his father, Send the lad with me, and we will arise and go, that we may live and not die, both we and you and also our little ones.
I myself will be surety for him; from my hand you shall require him. If I do not bring him to you and set him before you, then I shall have sinned against you all the days.
For if we had not delayed, surely by now we would have returned twice. And Israel their father said to them, If it is so, then do this: take from the choicest of the land in your bags, and bring down to the man a gift— a little balm and a little honey, gum and resin, pistachios and almonds. And double silver take in your hand, and the silver that was returned in the mouth of your sacks return in your hand; perhaps it is a mistake. And take your brother, and arise, return to the man. And El Shaddai grant you mercy before the man, and he will send back to you your other brother and Benjamin; and as for me, as I am bereaved, I am bereaved. And the men took this gift, and they took double silver in their hand, and Benjamin; and they rose and went down to Egypt and stood before Joseph. And Joseph saw Benjamin with them, and he said to the one over his house, Bring the men to the house, and slaughter an animal and make ready, for with me the men will eat at noon. And the man did as Joseph said, and the man brought the men into Joseph’s house. And the men were afraid because they were brought into Joseph’s house; and they said, It is on account of the silver that was returned in our sacks at the first that we are brought, to find a pretext against us and to fall upon us and to take us as slaves, and our donkeys. And they approached the man who was over Joseph’s house, and spoke to him at the entrance of the house,
and said, Please, my lord, we surely came down at first to buy food;
and it was, when we came to the lodging place, that we opened our sacks, and look, each man’s silver was in the mouth of his sack—our silver in its weight; and we have brought it back in our hand. And other silver we have brought down in our hand to buy food. We do not know who put our silver in our sacks. And he said, Peace to you; do not fear. Your God and the God of your father has given you treasure in your sacks; your silver came to me. And he brought out to them Simeon. And the man brought the men into Joseph’s house, and gave water and they washed their feet, and gave fodder to their donkeys. And they prepared the gift until Joseph came at noon, for they had heard that there they would eat bread. And Joseph came into the house, and they brought to him the gift that was in their hand into the house, and they bowed down to him to the ground. And he asked after their welfare, and said, Is it well with your father, the old man of whom you spoke? Is he still alive? And they said, It is well with your servant our father; he is still alive. And they bowed and prostrated themselves. And he lifted up his eyes and saw Benjamin his brother, his mother’s son, and said, Is this your youngest brother of whom you spoke to me? And he said, May God be gracious to you, my son. And Joseph hurried, for his compassions were stirred toward his brother, and he sought to weep; and he went into the chamber and wept there. And he washed his face and went out, and restrained himself, and said, Set on the bread. And they set for him by himself, and for them by themselves, and for the Egyptians who ate with him by themselves, because the Egyptians could not eat bread with the Hebrews, for that is an abomination to the Egyptians. And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright and the youngest according to his youth; and the men looked at one another in astonishment. And he sent portions from before him to them, and Benjamin’s portion was greater than the portions of all of them—five times as much. And they drank and were merry with him.