Joseph Reveals Himself
Genesis 45:1-28
Gen.45.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ולא: CONJ
- יכל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- להתאפק: VERB,hithpael,inf
- לכל: PREP
- הנצבים: NOUN,m,pl,def
- עליו: PREP,3,m,sg
- ויקרא: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- הוציאו: VERB,hiphil,impv,2,pl
- כל: DET
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- מעלי: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- ולא: CONJ
- עמד: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- איש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- בהתודע: PREP+VERB,hithpael,inf
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.45.3 (verbal): Immediate continuation of the same scene — Joseph declares “I am Joseph” after sending everyone out; direct verbal disclosure of identity and the climax of his inability to contain emotion.
- Gen.46.29-30 (thematic): Joseph publicly reveals himself anew to his father Jacob, falls on his neck and weeps — another intense family recognition/reunion scene that continues the reconciliation begun in 45:1.
- Gen.50.15-21 (thematic): After Jacob’s death the brothers fear revenge, and Joseph reassures them and explains God’s providence — develops the theme of disclosure leading to forgiveness and restoration initiated when Joseph first revealed himself.
- Gen.37.31-35 (structural): The earlier episode where the brothers present Joseph’s bloodied coat and Jacob mourns establishes the emotional stakes and narrative contrast to the later revelation in 45:1 — loss, mistaken identity, and eventual recognition.
- 1 Sam.20.41-42 (thematic): David and Jonathan’s private, tearful farewell — like Joseph’s insistence on privacy, this is a patterned biblical motif of ordering others away for an intimate emotional disclosure and affirmation of relationship.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Joseph could not restrain himself before all who stood by him, and he cried, Put every man out from me! And no man stood with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers.
- And Joseph could not restrain himself before all those standing by him, and he called, Have every man go out from me! And no man stood with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers.
Gen.45.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- קלו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+3ms
- בבכי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וישמעו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- וישמע: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פרעה: NOUN,m,sg,def
Parallels
- Gen.42.24 (verbal): Joseph weeps earlier after sending his brothers away — similar verbal motif (he turned about and wept), showing recurrent episodes of Joseph's private/emotional weeping.
- Gen.43.30 (verbal): When Joseph first sees Benjamin he 'sought where to weep' and wept in his chamber — another instance of Joseph's intense emotional response on seeing his brothers, paralleling the audible weeping in 45:2.
- Gen.45.14 (structural): Immediately after 45:2 Joseph falls on Benjamin's neck and weeps; this continuation repeats the public display of emotion and its reconciliation function within the narrative.
- Gen.37.34 (thematic): Jacob's loud, prolonged mourning for 'Joseph' (tearing his clothes and refusing to be comforted) parallels the theme of family lament and public manifestation of grief in the Joseph story.
- 2 Sam.18.33 (thematic): David's passionate, public lament for Absalom ('O my son Absalom...') is a comparable instance of loud, hearable weeping that moves bystanders and marks a pivotal emotional moment in a family/political crisis.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he raised his voice in weeping, and the Egyptians heard, and the house of Pharaoh heard.
- And he lifted up his voice in weeping, and the Egyptians heard, and the house of Pharaoh heard.
Gen.45.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- אני: PRON,1,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- העוד: PART,interrog
- אבי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- חי: ADJ,m,sg
- ולא: CONJ
- יכלו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- לענות: VERB,qal,inf
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- כי: CONJ
- נבהלו: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,pl
- מפניו: PREP+3ms
Parallels
- Gen.45.4 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel — the continuation of Joseph’s self‑revelation (he commands them to come near and begins to explain, placing v.3 within the larger reveal and reconciliation scene).
- Gen.44.16 (thematic): Earlier scene of the brothers’ inability to answer — when Judah pleads before the Egyptian (v.16) the brothers likewise are speechless from fear and guilt, prefiguring their reaction when Joseph identifies himself.
- Judg.6.22–23 (thematic): Gideon’s recognition of the angel of the LORD leads to fear and an expression of impending death; parallels the motif of a startling recognition of a revealed identity producing terror.
- Luke 24.30–31 (thematic): After a period of concealment Jesus is suddenly recognized by the disciples and they are astonished; thematically parallels a hidden identity disclosed and the emotional, disorienting reaction of those who recognize him.
- John 20.16–17 (thematic): Mary’s sudden recognition of the risen Jesus and her emotional response echoes the shock and intense affect that accompany a surprising revelation of identity (cf. Joseph’s brothers’ fear and inability to answer).
Alternative generated candidates
- And Joseph said to his brothers, I am Joseph; is my father still alive? And his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed at his presence.
- And Joseph said to his brothers, I am Joseph. Is my father still alive? But his brothers could not answer him, for they were dismayed before him.
Gen.45.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- גשו: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,pl
- נא: PART
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- ויגשו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אני: PRON,1,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אחיכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+2,m,pl
- אשר: PRON,rel
- מכרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אתי: PRON,1,sg
- מצרימה: NOUN,prop,pl,m,abs
Parallels
- Gen.37:26-28 (verbal): The original account of Joseph’s brothers selling him into Egypt — the act Joseph here explicitly names ('which you sold me').
- Gen.42:21 (thematic): The brothers’ confession of guilt ('we are guilty concerning our brother') anticipates the recognition and repentance context in which Joseph reveals himself.
- Gen.50:15-21 (thematic): Joseph’s later response to his brothers’ fear — reaffirming his identity, refusing vengeance, and interpreting their deed within God’s providence (reconciliation/forgiveness theme).
- Ps.105:17-22 (allusion): A poetic retelling of Joseph’s being sold, imprisoned, and exalted in Egypt—paralleling the narrative context and divine purpose implicit in Joseph’s revelation.
- Acts 7:9-10 (allusion): Stephen’s summary of Israelite history recalls Joseph’s sale into Egypt and God’s deliverance, echoing the same events that Joseph addresses when revealing himself.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Joseph said to his brothers, Please come near to me. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt.
- And Joseph said to his brothers, Please come near to me. And they came near. And he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt.
Gen.45.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועתה: CONJ
- אל: NEG
- תעצבו: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- ואל: CONJ+PREP
- יחר: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- בעיניכם: PREP+NOUN,pl,f,cons+PRON,2,pl
- כי: CONJ
- מכרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אתי: PRON,1,sg
- הנה: PART
- כי: CONJ
- למחיה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- שלחני: VERB,qal,imp,2,m,sg
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לפניכם: PREP,2,m,pl
Parallels
- Gen.45.7 (verbal): Very close wording within the same speech: Joseph explicitly says God sent him before his brothers to preserve life/seed, reiterating the providential purpose he gives for his presence in Egypt.
- Gen.50.20 (thematic): Joseph again interprets his brothers' hostile act as part of God's saving plan: what they intended for harm God intended for good to preserve many lives—same theme of providential reversal.
- Ps.105:17-19 (allusion): The psalm recounts Joseph being sent ahead to Egypt and God’s providential control over his rise from slavery to rulership—echoing Joseph’s claim that God sent him to preserve life.
- Acts 7:9-10 (allusion): Stephen’s retelling of Israelite history cites the patriarchs’ sale of Joseph and God’s deliverance (God being with Joseph), paralleling Joseph’s interpretation that God’s sending preserved life.
Alternative generated candidates
- And now, do not be distressed, and let it not be grievous in your eyes that you sold me here, for to preserve life God sent me before you.
- And now, do not be distressed, and do not be angry with yourselves that you sold me here, for to preserve life God sent me ahead of you.
Gen.45.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- כי: CONJ
- זה: PRON,dem,m,sg
- שנתים: NOUN,f,du,abs
- הרעב: NOUN,m,sg,def
- בקרב: PREP
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
- ועוד: CONJ
- חמש: NUM,card,f,sg
- שנים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- אין: PART,neg
- חריש: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וקציר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.41:27-31 (verbal): Pharaoh’s dream interpretation announces seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine and explicitly links the coming famine to a cessation of normal sowing/harvest — the immediate source for Joseph’s reference to two years passed and five remaining.
- Gen.41:54-57 (structural): Narrates the onset of the famine 'throughout the world' and the resulting flow of peoples to Egypt for grain — the broader narrative context that explains why Joseph’s measures (and his brothers’ travel) matter.
- Gen.47:13-19 (thematic): Describes the severe effects of the famine in Egypt and Canaan and the purchase of grain/land under Joseph’s administration, continuing the economic and social consequences implied by the remaining five years without sowing or reaping.
- Ps.105:16-22 (allusion): A retrospective poetic retelling of Joseph’s rise that highlights the famine sent on the land and God’s providential sending of Joseph to store grain — a later biblical reflection on the same seven‑year famine motif.
Alternative generated candidates
- For this is the second year of famine in the midst of the land, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest.
- For these two years the famine has been in the midst of the land, and there are still five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest.
Gen.45.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישלחני: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לפניכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- לשום: VERB,qal,inf
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- שארית: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- ולהחיות: VERB,hiphil,inf
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- לפליטה: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- גדלה: VERB,qal,perf,3,f,sg
Parallels
- Genesis 50:20 (thematic): Joseph explains that what his brothers intended for harm God used for good to preserve life—same idea of God using events to save a remnant.
- Psalm 105:17-22 (allusion): The psalm retells Joseph’s sending to Egypt and God’s providential preservation of his family, directly paralleling the language and purpose of Genesis 45:7.
- Romans 8:28 (thematic): Paul’s claim that God works all things for good for those who love him echoes the theological pattern in Genesis 45:7 of God directing events to bring about preservation/salvation.
- Isaiah 10:20-22 (thematic): Isaiah’s language about a ‘remnant’ preserved in the land parallels Joseph’s stated purpose to preserve a remnant/large deliverance for his family.
- Acts 7:9-14 (allusion): Stephen’s retelling of Joseph being sent into Egypt to preserve his family echoes the providential sending and saving purpose expressed in Genesis 45:7.
Alternative generated candidates
- And God sent me before you to set for you a remnant in the land, and to keep you alive for a great deliverance.
- And God sent me ahead of you to set for you a remnant in the land, and to keep you alive for a great deliverance.
Gen.45.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועתה: CONJ
- לא: PART_NEG
- אתם: PRON,2,m,pl
- שלחתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אתי: PRON,1,sg
- הנה: PART
- כי: CONJ
- האלהים: NOUN,m,sg,def
- וישימני: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg+PRON,1,_,sg
- לאב: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לפרעה: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ולאדון: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לכל: PREP
- ביתו: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומשל: CONJ+PREP+VERB,qal,inf
- בכל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
Parallels
- Genesis 50:20 (thematic): Joseph tells his brothers that although they intended harm, God intended it for good—echoing Gen 45:8’s claim that God, not the brothers, sent him and worked providentially to preserve life.
- Genesis 41:40-41 (verbal): Pharaoh’s appointment language—placing Joseph over his house and the land—parallels Gen 45:8’s statement that God set him as a father to Pharaoh and ruler over all Egypt.
- Psalm 105:17-22 (allusion): The psalm recounts God’s sending of Joseph to Egypt, his suffering and subsequent exaltation to rule; it retells the same providential motif and similar wording found in Gen 45:8.
- Acts 7:9-10 (allusion): Stephen’s summary of Joseph’s story emphasizes God’s deliverance and exaltation of Joseph—giving him favor, wisdom, and governance over Egypt—paralleling the claim in Gen 45:8 of divine appointment and purpose.
Alternative generated candidates
- So now, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and he has set me as a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of Egypt.
- So now, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and he has made me a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of Egypt.
Gen.45.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- מהרו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ועלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- אבי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- ואמרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- כה: ADV
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בנך: NOUN,m,sg,cstr+poss,2,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- שמני: VERB,hiphil,perf,3,m,sg,obj:1s
- אלהים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- לאדון: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לכל: PREP
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- רדה: VERB,qal,impv,2,m,sg
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- אל: NEG
- תעמד: VERB,qal,juss,2,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.45:1-8 (verbal): Immediate context: Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and explains that God sent him — the same revelation that leads to the command to tell Jacob and bring him down (sets up 45:9).
- Gen.46:29-30 (structural): Narrative fulfillment: Jacob journeys down to Egypt and meets Joseph, accomplishing the instruction in 45:9 to bring their father without delay.
- Gen.41:41-44 (verbal): Pharaoh’s appointment of Joseph as second-in-command parallels the title and authority in 45:9 ('ruler/governor over all Egypt') that enables Joseph to summon his family.
- Ps.105:16-22 (allusion): Poetic retelling of Joseph’s sale, suffering, and exaltation; emphasizes that God sent Joseph ahead of his brothers to preserve life, echoing Joseph’s claim and purpose in Genesis 45.
Alternative generated candidates
- Hurry and go up to my father, and you shall say to him, Thus says your son Joseph, God has set me as lord of all Egypt; come down to me, do not delay.
- Hurry, and go up to my father, and say to him, Thus says your son Joseph: God has made me lord of all Egypt; come down to me, do not delay.
Gen.45.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישבת: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- בארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,def
- גשן: NOUN,prop,m,sg
- והיית: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- קרוב: ADJ,m,sg,abs
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- ובניך: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs,suff:2,ms
- ובני: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,cons
- בניך: NOUN,m,pl,abs+POSS,2,m,sg
- וצאנך: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs+POSS,2,m,sg
- ובקרך: CONJ+NOUN,m,pl,abs+POSS,2,m,sg
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- אשר: PRON,rel
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
Parallels
- Genesis 47:11 (structural): Joseph places his father and brothers in a special region of Egypt at Pharaoh’s command—direct narrative fulfillment of Joseph’s instruction that Jacob dwell near him in Goshen.
- Genesis 47:27 (structural): Explicit statement that Israel dwelt in the land of Goshen and prospered, directly fulfilling Genesis 45:10’s promise of residence and family continuity.
- Exodus 1:1–5 (structural): Lists Jacob’s descendants who went down to Egypt with him, providing the demographic background for the family’s settlement mentioned in Gen 45:10.
- Psalm 105:23–27 (allusion): A poetic retelling that recounts Joseph being sent before the people, bringing Jacob into Egypt, and giving the Israelites a possession—an editorial reflection on the same event and promise.
- Acts 7:13–14 (allusion): Stephen’s retelling in the New Testament that Joseph sent for his father and all his kindred to come to Egypt, echoing the movement and settlement announced in Genesis 45:10.
Alternative generated candidates
- And you shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near to me—you and your sons and your sons’ sons, your flocks and your herds, and all that is yours.
- And you shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near to me—you and your sons and your sons’ sons, and your flocks and your cattle, and all that is yours.
Gen.45.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וכלכלתי: VERB,piel,perf,1,m,sg
- אתך: PREP+PRON,2,m,sg
- שם: ADV
- כי: CONJ
- עוד: ADV
- חמש: NUM,card,f,sg
- שנים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- רעב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פן: CONJ
- תורש: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,sg
- אתה: PRON,2,m,sg
- וביתך: NOUN,m,sg,cs
- וכל: CONJ+PRON,indef
- אשר: PRON,rel
- לך: PRON,2,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.47:12 (verbal): Uses the same root of 'nourish/feed' (וְכִלְכַּלְתִּי/וַיְכַלְכֵּל יוֹסֵף) — Joseph actually provides food for Jacob, his brothers, and their households in Egypt, fulfilling 45:11's promise.
- Gen.41:33-36 (structural): Joseph's plan to appoint overseers to gather and store grain during seven years of plenty so the land will be provided for during the coming famine — the institutional background for the promise to 'nourish you there.'
- ref:Gen.41:48-49,41:56-57 (verbal): Joseph's wide-scale collection and storage of grain in the cities and the subsequent nationwide famine explain the practical means by which he could sustain his family for the remaining five years.
- Ps.105:16-22 (allusion): The psalm retells the Joseph story, emphasizing God's providence in raising Joseph to store grain and save many from famine — a theological retelling of the promise to provide for Jacob's household.
Alternative generated candidates
- And I will provide for you there—for there are yet five years of famine—lest you be impoverished, you and your household and all that is yours.
- And I will sustain you there, for there are still five years of famine—lest you become destitute, you and your household and all that is yours.
Gen.45.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והנה: ADV
- עיניכם: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ראות: VERB,qal,ptc,3,f,pl
- ועיני: NOUN,f,pl,cons
- אחי: NOUN,m,pl,suff
- בנימין: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- כי: CONJ
- פי: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- המדבר: VERB,qal,ptc,3,m,sg
- אליכם: PREP+PRON,2,pl
Parallels
- Genesis 45:3 (verbal): Immediate verbal parallel within the same revelation scene — Joseph explicitly declares “I am Joseph,” the direct disclosure of identity to his brothers.
- Genesis 42:8 (thematic): Earlier scene of concealed identity: Joseph recognizes his brothers while they do not recognize him, setting up the later full revelation and the theme of recognition.
- Luke 24:31 (thematic): After the resurrection the disciples’ “eyes were opened and they recognized him” — a parallel motif of sudden recognition when identity is revealed.
- John 21:7 (thematic): Immediate recognition exclamation (“It is the Lord!”) when a familiar figure is revealed, echoing the emotional recognition in Joseph’s disclosure to his brothers.
Alternative generated candidates
- And behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my mouth that is speaking to you.
- And behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my own mouth that speaks to you.
Gen.45.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והגדתם: VERB,hiphil,perf,2,m,pl
- לאבי: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs,1cs
- את: PRT,acc
- כל: DET
- כבודי: NOUN,m,sg,abs,poss:1cs
- במצרים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ואת: CONJ
- כל: DET
- אשר: PRON,rel
- ראיתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- ומהרתם: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- והורדתם: VERB,hif,impf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- אבי: NOUN,m,sg,cons
- הנה: PART
Parallels
- Gen.45:9-11 (verbal): Immediate verbal parallel — Joseph's preceding instructions to his brothers to hurry, reassure their father, and bring him to Egypt; these verses form the same speech and intent as v.13.
- Gen.46:29-30 (structural): Narrative fulfillment — the brothers bring Jacob to Egypt, Joseph meets and embraces his father in Goshen, showing the outcome of the command in 45:13.
- Gen.37:33-35 (thematic): Contrast in family news — earlier the brothers presented Jacob with Joseph's bloodstained coat and Jacob mourned as if Joseph were dead; Gen.45:13 reverses that state by announcing Joseph's honor and summoning Jacob to join him.
- Ps.105:16-22 (allusion): The psalm recounts Joseph's elevation in Egypt and God's providential sending of Joseph before his family, echoing the themes of Joseph's honor in Egypt and the migration of Israel that are announced in Gen.45:13.
Alternative generated candidates
- And you shall tell my father of all my honor in Egypt and of all that you have seen; and you shall hurry and bring down my father here.
- And you shall tell my father of all my honor in Egypt and of all that you have seen, and you shall hurry and bring my father down here.
Gen.45.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויפל: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- צוארי: NOUN,m,sg,abs+suff-1cs
- בנימן: NOUN,m,sg,proper
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- ויבך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- ובנימן: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בכה: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- על: PREP
- צואריו: NOUN,m,sg,abs,suff:3,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.33.4 (verbal): Esau runs to meet Jacob, falls on his neck, kisses him, and they wept — almost identical wording and the theme of sibling reconciliation after separation.
- Gen.46.29 (verbal): On Joseph’s return to his father Israel he falls on his father's neck and weeps on his neck for a long time — a near verbal and situational parallel within the Joseph cycle.
- Gen.43.30 (thematic): Earlier in the narrative Joseph kisses and weeps over his brothers when Benjamin appears — a repeated pattern of affectionate, tearful reunion among the brothers.
- Luke 15:20 (allusion): In the Prodigal Son the father runs, falls on his son’s neck, and kisses him — a New Testament echo of the falling-on-the-neck motif expressing restoration and emotional reconciliation.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he fell upon the neck of Benjamin his brother and wept, and Benjamin wept upon his neck.
- And he fell upon the neck of Benjamin his brother and wept, and Benjamin wept upon his neck.
Gen.45.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וינשק: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,sg
- לכל: PREP
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- ויבך: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- עליהם: PREP,3,m,pl
- ואחרי: CONJ
- כן: ADV
- דברו: INF,qal,inf+3ms
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
Parallels
- Gen.33:4 (verbal): Esau runs to meet Jacob, embraces, kisses him and both weep — a close verbal and situational parallel of fraternal reconciliation through kissing and tears.
- 1 Sam.20:41-42 (verbal): Jonathan and David kiss and weep together after parting — similar language and emotional gesture marking covenantal/relational reconciliation.
- Luke 15:20 (allusion): The father runs, falls on his son's neck and kisses him on the son's return — a New Testament echo of tearful embrace as the climax of forgiveness and restoration.
- 2 Sam.14:33 (thematic): King David kisses Absalom on his return — same royal/parental gesture of welcome and restored relationship after estrangement.
- Gen.43:30 (structural): Earlier in Joseph cycle Joseph weeps privately on seeing Benjamin; Gen 45:15 completes that emotional arc when he openly kisses and weeps with all his brothers.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he kissed all his brothers and wept upon them, and after that his brothers spoke with him.
- And he kissed all his brothers and wept upon them, and afterward his brothers spoke with him.
Gen.45.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- והקל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- נשמע: VERB,niphal,perf,3,m,sg
- בית: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- פרעה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- אחי: NOUN,m,pl,suff
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וייטב: VERB,qal,imperfect,3,m,sg
- בעיני: PREP+NOUN,f,pl,abs
- פרעה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ובעיני: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,pl,cstr
- עבדיו: NOUN,m,pl,abs+3ms
Parallels
- Genesis 39:4 (verbal): Uses the same language of finding favor in the sight of an Egyptian master (טוב/חן בעיני): Joseph ‘found favor’ with Potiphar, paralleling Pharaoh’s favorable reception of Joseph’s brothers.
- Genesis 39:21–23 (verbal): Describes Joseph’s repeated experience of finding favor in the sight of Egyptian officials (the prison keeper), echoing the formula of being well‑regarded in Pharaoh’s house.
- Genesis 41:39–41 (structural): Pharaoh’s positive appraisal and elevation of Joseph (placing him over Egypt) parallels 45:16’s report that Joseph’s family’s arrival pleased Pharaoh and his court—both passages show favorable royal reception and trust.
- Psalm 105:17–22 (thematic): A poetic retelling of Joseph’s rise and favor in Egypt (including service in Pharaoh’s house); thematically parallels the favorable status Joseph and his family enjoy before the Egyptian court.
- Genesis 45:25–28 (thematic): Immediate narrative parallel within the same episode: the brothers’ report to Jacob and his emotional revival at news of Joseph’s life—both verses deal with the effect of news about Joseph on significant audiences (Pharaoh’s court and Jacob).
Alternative generated candidates
- And the report was heard in the house of Pharaoh, saying, Joseph’s brothers have come; and it was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of his servants.
- And the report was heard in the house of Pharaoh, saying, Joseph’s brothers have come; and it was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of his servants.
Gen.45.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- פרעה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- אל: NEG
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אל: NEG
- אחיך: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,2,m,sg
- זאת: DEM,f,sg
- עשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- טענו: VERB,qal,imperative,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- בעירכם: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,suff2mp
- ולכו: VERB,qal,imp,2,pl
- באו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ארצה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כנען: NOUN,m,sg,abs
Parallels
- Genesis 45:9–13 (verbal): Joseph earlier tells his brothers to go back, bring their father and households to Egypt — the same instruction Pharaoh reiterates and authorizes.
- Genesis 45:19–20 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: Pharaoh supplies chariots and provisions for the brothers’ return trip, showing how Pharaoh implements the order in v.17.
- Genesis 47:6,11 (thematic): Pharaoh ultimately grants Joseph’s family land in Goshen and provides for their settlement in Egypt — the outcome toward which v.17 initiates movement.
- Genesis 46:29–31 (allusion): Joseph’s reunion with Jacob in Goshen fulfills the instruction to bring the family to Egypt and develops the consequences of Pharaoh’s permission in v.17.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Pharaoh said to Joseph, Say to your brothers, Do this: load your beasts and go, come to the land of Canaan.
- And Pharaoh said to Joseph, Say to your brothers: Do this—load your beasts, and set out; go to the land of Canaan.
Gen.45.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וקחו: VERB,qal,imp,2,mp
- את: PRT,acc
- אביכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,mp
- ואת: CONJ
- בתיכם: NOUN,m,pl,abs+2m.pl
- ובאו: VERB,qal,imp,2,mp
- אלי: PREP+PRON,1,sg
- ואתנה: VERB,qal,impf,1,sg
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ואכלו: VERB,qal,imp,2,mp
- את: PRT,acc
- חלב: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- הארץ: NOUN,f,sg,def
Parallels
- Gen.45.11 (structural): Immediate context: Joseph invites his father and households to come to Egypt and promises to nourish them—same invitation and provision motif continued from v.18.
- Gen.47.6 (verbal): Pharaoh later echoes the promise to settle Joseph's family 'in the best of the land'—repeats the offer to give them the good of the land.
- Gen.46:5-7 (structural): Narrative fulfillment: Jacob actually travels to Egypt with his children and grandchildren, enacting Joseph’s invitation to bring the family.
- Exod.3:8 (thematic): God’s description of Canaan as 'a land flowing with milk and honey' parallels the promise of plentiful, fertile land—both use agricultural abundance to signify welcome and provision.
- Deut.32:14 (verbal): Uses similar imagery of 'fat' and rich produce ('curds... milk... fat of lambs')—the same lexical field portraying the land’s richness and abundance.
Alternative generated candidates
- And take your father and your households and come to me, and I will give you the best of the land of Egypt, and you shall eat the fat of the land.
- And take your father and your households and come to me, and I will give you the good of the land of Egypt, and you shall eat the fat of the land.
Gen.45.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ואתה: CONJ+PRON,2,m,sg
- צויתה: VERB,qal,perf,2,m,sg
- זאת: DEM,f,sg
- עשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- קחו: VERB,qal,impv,2,pl
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- מארץ: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- עגלות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- לטפכם: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- ולנשיכם: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,f,pl,abs+PRON,2,m,pl
- ונשאתם: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
- את: PRT,acc
- אביכם: NOUN,m,sg,abs,2,mp
- ובאתם: CONJ+VERB,qal,perf,2,m,pl
Parallels
- Genesis 45:20 (verbal): Immediate repetition/extension of Joseph's instructions — verse 20 recounts that Joseph commanded they take wagons and lists the provisions he gave them for the journey.
- Genesis 45:24 (structural): Narrative parallel: verse 24 repeats Joseph's charging of his brothers and records their departure to bring Jacob, echoing the command to provide transport and transport the father.
- Genesis 46:5-7 (thematic): God's direction to Jacob to go down to Egypt and the subsequent journey of Jacob and his house parallels Joseph's arrangements to bring his father out of Canaan into Egypt.
- Genesis 47:11 (thematic): After Jacob's arrival Joseph secures a place for his family in Goshen — the fulfillment of Joseph's intention in 45:19 to bring and settle his father and household in Egypt.
- Genesis 43:11 (thematic): Earlier episode where the brothers are instructed to take a present and provisions for Jacob's household; both passages show concern for transporting and providing for the patriarch's family.
Alternative generated candidates
- And you are commanded: Do this—take for yourselves from the land of Egypt wagons for your little ones and for your wives, and carry your father and come.
- And you are commanded: Do this—take for yourselves from the land of Egypt wagons for your little ones and for your wives, and you shall carry your father and come.
Gen.45.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ועינכם: CONJ+NOUN,f,pl,suff
- אל: NEG
- תחס: VERB,qal,impf,2,m,pl
- על: PREP
- כליכם: NOUN,m,pl,suff-2mp
- כי: CONJ
- טוב: ADJ,m,pl,abs
- כל: DET
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- לכם: PREP,2,m,pl
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
Parallels
- Gen.45:5-8 (quotation): Immediate context — Joseph explicitly tells his brothers not to be distressed over selling him because God sent him ahead to preserve life, the same explanation underlying v.20.
- Gen.50:20 (thematic): Joseph’s later summary of events: what his brothers intended for harm God intended for good — echoes the theme of divine providence that reframes their sin in Gen.45:20.
- Ps.105:17-22 (allusion): The psalm recounts God’s sending of Joseph into Egypt to preserve a remnant and provide during famine, paralleling the providential interpretation in Gen.45:20.
- Acts 7:9-14 (thematic): Stephen’s retelling of Joseph’s sale and God’s providential purpose (bringing Jacob’s family to Egypt) parallels the purpose-driven reading of the brothers’ actions in Gen.45:20.
- Gen.47:11 (structural): Joseph’s subsequent settlement of Jacob in Goshen and provision for his family shows the practical outcome of the promise that Egypt would be favorable to them, implicit in the assurance of Gen.45:20.
Alternative generated candidates
- And do not let your eye look with pity on your goods, for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours.
- And do not let your eye look with pity on your goods, for the best of all the land of Egypt is yours.
Gen.45.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעשו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- כן: ADV
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- עגלות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- על: PREP
- פי: NOUN,m,sg,construct
- פרעה: NOUN,m,sg,def
- ויתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- צדה: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- לדרך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.45.22 (verbal): Same narrative moment—Joseph not only gives wagons and provisions but also parcels out changes of raiment and gifts to his brothers; a direct, closely related verse in the same scene.
- Gen.43.11 (thematic): Jacob instructs his sons to take 'the best products' and a present for the man in Egypt—prepares provisions and gifts for the journey, anticipatory of what Joseph later supplies.
- Exod.3.21-22 (allusion): God promises that when Israel goes out of Egypt the Egyptians will give them silver, gold and clothing—anticipatory divine promise that parallels Israelites’ receipt of goods from Egyptians (here via Joseph/Pharaoh).
- Exod.12.35-36 (thematic): At the Exodus the Israelites acquire silver, gold and goods from the Egyptians (they 'plundered' Egypt); thematically parallel to Joseph arranging wagons and provisions and the transfer of goods from Egypt to Israel.
Alternative generated candidates
- And the sons of Israel did so; and Joseph gave them wagons according to Pharaoh’s word, and he gave them provisions for the way.
- And the sons of Israel did so; and Joseph gave them wagons according to Pharaoh’s word, and he gave them provision for the way.
Gen.45.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- לכלם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לאיש: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חלפות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- שמלת: NOUN,f,sg,cstr
- ולבנימן: CONJ+PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- נתן: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- שלש: NUM,card,f,sg
- מאות: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- כסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- וחמש: CONJ+NUM,card,pl,abs
- חלפת: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- שמלת: NOUN,f,sg,cstr
Parallels
- Genesis 41:42 (verbal): Pharaoh robes Joseph and gives him signs of office (robe, ring, necklace); parallels the giving of garments here as bestowal of status and favor.
- Genesis 45:21 (structural): Immediate narrative parallel: Joseph supplies his brothers with wagons, provisions and gifts for their father—this verse is part of the same sequence of Joseph’s provision and reconciliation.
- Genesis 43:11 (thematic): Jacob’s instruction to send a present to the 'man' in Egypt prefigures reciprocal gift-giving in the Joseph story; both passages frame gifts as means of securing favor and reconciliation.
- Genesis 37:3 (thematic): Jacob’s giving of a special coat to Joseph earlier in the story establishes the motif of clothing as a marker of parental/special favor, which is echoed when Joseph gives garments to his brothers (and extra to Benjamin).
Alternative generated candidates
- To all of them he gave, to each man, changes of garments; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver and five changes of garments.
- To all of them he gave—to each man—changes of garments; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver and five changes of garments.
Gen.45.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ולאביו: PREP,pr,3,m,sg
- שלח: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- כזאת: DEM,f,sg
- עשרה: NUM,card,m,pl
- חמרים: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- נשאים: PARTCP,pual,pass,m,pl
- מטוב: PREP+ADJ,m,sg,abs
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ועשר: CONJ+NUM,f,pl
- אתנת: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- נשאת: PTCP,qal,ptcp,f,pl
- בר: NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ולחם: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ומזון: CONJ+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לאביו: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs,3,m,sg
- לדרך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.45:22 (verbal): Immediate context: Joseph sends provisions and gifts to his brothers 'for the way'—closely parallel language and action (sending laden donkeys and food).
- Gen.43:11 (thematic): Jacob instructs his sons to take a present (the best of the land) to the Egyptian man; same motif of sending gifts/provisions to an Egyptian official and preparing for a journey to Egypt.
- Gen.41:41-43 (thematic): Pharaoh bestows gifts, authority, and symbols of transfer of status on Joseph; highlights the reciprocal gift/benefaction dynamic that enables Joseph to provide for his family.
- Gen.47:11-12 (thematic): Joseph settles his father and family in Goshen and supplies them with food during the famine—continuation of the theme of provision and care for kin supplied from Egypt.
Alternative generated candidates
- And to his father he sent like this: ten donkeys bearing of the good things of Egypt, and ten she-asses bearing grain and bread and food for his father for the way.
- And to his father he sent as follows: ten donkeys carrying of the good things of Egypt, and ten she-asses carrying grain and bread and food for his father for the way.
Gen.45.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וישלח: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- אחיו: NOUN,3,m,sg,abs
- וילכו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- אלהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- אל: NEG
- תרגזו: VERB,qal,impf/juss,2,m,pl
- בדרך: PREP+NOUN,f,sg,abs
Parallels
- Gen.13:8 (thematic): Abram urges Lot to avoid strife between them when dividing land — a family peacekeeping move analogous to Joseph's command that his brothers not quarrel on the road.
- Prov.17:14 (thematic): Wisdom saying that the beginning of strife is like letting out water and should be stopped early — parallels Joseph's preventative admonition to avoid quarrels during the journey.
- Matt.5:23-24 (thematic): Jesus instructs reconciliation with an adversary before worship — similar emphasis on promptly resolving disputes rather than letting them continue.
- Rom.12:18 (thematic): Paul's injunction to live peaceably with all as far as it depends on you echoes Joseph's practical command to prevent conflict among his brothers on the road.
Alternative generated candidates
- And he sent his brothers away, and they went; and he said to them, Do not quarrel on the way.
- And he sent his brothers away, and they went; and he said to them, Do not quarrel on the way.
Gen.45.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויעלו: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,pl
- ממצרים: PREP+NOUN,m,pl,abs
- ויבאו: VERB,qal,impf,3,m,pl
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- כנען: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אל: NEG
- יעקב: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אביהם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Genesis 46:1-7 (structural): Immediate narrative continuation: after the brothers return to Canaan, Jacob later goes down to Egypt to join Joseph (the account of the family’s movement between Canaan and Egypt).
- Exodus 3:8 (thematic): God’s promise to 'bring up' the Israelites out of Egypt into a good land — echoes the motif of movement from Egypt to the land of Canaan found in Genesis 45:25.
- Deuteronomy 26:5-9 (allusion): Liturgical retelling of the patriarchs’ descent into Egypt and God’s rescue and settlement in Canaan; echoes the same historical/theological pattern of leaving and entering the land.
- Exodus 12:37-38 (thematic): The Exodus account of Israel’s departure from Egypt (journeying out of Egypt toward the land); parallels the movement motif of exiting Egypt and returning to the land of Canaan.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they went up from Egypt and came to the land of Canaan, to Jacob their father.
- And they went up from Egypt and came to the land of Canaan, to Jacob their father.
Gen.45.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויגדו: VERB,piel,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- לו: PRON,3,m,sg
- לאמר: INF,qal,infc
- עוד: ADV
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- חי: ADJ,m,sg
- וכי: CONJ
- הוא: PRON,3,m,sg
- משל: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- בכל: PREP+NOUN,m,sg,abs
- ארץ: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- מצרים: NOUN,f,pl,abs
- ויפג: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- לבו: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,sg
- כי: CONJ
- לא: PART_NEG
- האמין: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- להם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Gen.37:31-35 (thematic): Jacob is led to believe Joseph is dead and mourns; parallels the earlier report about Joseph’s fate and Jacob’s inability to accept the news.
- Gen.41:41-43 (verbal): Pharaoh’s elevation of Joseph to second-in-command explains the claim that ‘he is governor over all the land of Egypt,’ the precise position reported to Jacob.
- Ps.105:16-22 (allusion): The psalm retells Joseph’s betrayal, exaltation and appointing as ruler in Egypt — echoing the report that Joseph lives and rules.
- John 20:24-29 (thematic): Thomas’s initial unbelief and subsequent conviction upon confirmation parallels Jacob’s failure to believe the report of Joseph’s being alive until shown assurance.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they told him, saying, Joseph is still alive, and indeed he is ruler over all the land of Egypt; and his heart became numb, for he did not believe them.
- And they told him, saying, Joseph is still alive, and indeed he is ruler over all the land of Egypt; and his heart became numb, for he did not believe them.
Gen.45.27 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- וידברו: VERB,qal,wayyiqtol,3,m,pl
- אליו: PREP+PRON,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- כל: DET
- דברי: NOUN,m,pl,abs+PRON,1,c,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אשר: PRON,rel
- דבר: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- אלהם: PREP+PRON,3,m,pl
- וירא: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- את: PRT,acc
- העגלות: NOUN,f,pl,def
- אשר: PRON,rel
- שלח: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- לשאת: VERB,qal,inf
- אתו: PRON,3,m,sg,acc
- ותחי: VERB,qal,imprf,3,f,sg
- רוח: NOUN,f,sg,abs
- יעקב: NOUN,prop,m,sg,abs
- אביהם: NOUN,m,sg,abs+PRON,3,m,pl
Parallels
- Gen.37:34-35 (thematic): Jacob's earlier mourning over Joseph whom he believed dead—he 'refused to be comforted'—provides a contrast to Jacob's revived spirit when he learns Joseph is alive.
- Gen.42:36-38 (thematic): Jacob's anguish at the prospect of losing Benjamin and the report that his sons returned without him shows the ongoing family distress that is resolved by the news in 45:27.
- Gen.45:28 (structural): Immediate continuation: Jacob's verbal response and explicit declaration of joy ('It is enough; Joseph my son is still alive') completes the report of his spirit reviving.
- Gen.46:29-30 (thematic): Jacob's actual reunion with Joseph in Egypt and the recognition of Joseph's sons confirms and extends the revival of spirit first recorded in 45:27.
Alternative generated candidates
- And they spoke to him all the words of Joseph that he had spoken to them, and he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him, and the spirit of Jacob their father revived.
- And they spoke to him all the words of Joseph that he had spoken to them, and he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him; and the spirit of Jacob their father revived.
Gen.45.28 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ויאמר: VERB,qal,perf,3,m,sg
- ישראל: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- רב: ADJ,m,sg
- עוד: ADV
- יוסף: NOUN,m,sg,abs
- בני: NOUN,m,pl,construct
- חי: ADJ,m,sg
- אלכה: VERB,qal,impf,1,?,sg
- ואראנו: VERB,qal,impf,1,?,sg
- בטרם: PREP
- אמות: VERB,qal,impf,1,_,sg
Parallels
- Genesis 37:33-35 (thematic): Jacob believes Joseph is dead and expresses intent to 'go down to the grave' for him — a contrast to Genesis 45:28 where Jacob learns Joseph lives and declares he will go see him before he dies.
- Genesis 46:29-30 (structural): Narrative fulfillment: Jacob actually goes down to Egypt and is reunited with Joseph, answering his earlier declaration to see Joseph before he dies.
- Genesis 47:29-31 (verbal): Jacob, near death, gives Joseph specific instructions about burial and expresses concern about dying in Egypt—paralleling the motif of 'before I die' and preparations tied to Jacob's remaining days.
- Genesis 44:29-30 (thematic): Jacob's fear at the possible loss of Benjamin (his only remaining son) and the prospect of being brought to the grave in sorrow echoes the deep paternal anxiety and the urgency in Genesis 45:28 to see a living son before death.
Alternative generated candidates
- And Israel said, Enough—Joseph my son is still alive; I will go and see him before I die.
- And Israel said, It is enough—Joseph my son is still alive; I will go and see him before I die.
And Joseph could not restrain himself before all who stood by him; and he cried, Send every man out from me! And no man stood with him when Joseph made himself known to his brothers. And he wept aloud, and the Egyptians heard, and the house of Pharaoh heard. And Joseph said to his brothers, I am Joseph. Is my father still alive? But his brothers were not able to answer him, for they were dismayed before him. And Joseph said to his brothers, Come near to me, please. And they came near, and he said, I am Joseph your brother, whom you sold into Egypt. And now, do not be grieved, and do not be angry with yourselves that you sold me here, for to sustain life God has sent me ahead of you.
For these two years the famine has been in the midst of the land, and there are yet five years in which there will be neither plowing nor harvest. And God sent me before you to establish for you a remnant in the land, and to keep you alive for a great deliverance. And now, it was not you who sent me here, but God; and he has set me as a father to Pharaoh, and lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of Egypt.
Hurry, and go up to my father, and you shall say to him, Thus says your son Joseph: God has set me as lord over all Egypt; come down to me—do not delay. And you shall dwell in the land of Goshen, and you shall be near to me—you and your sons and your sons’ sons, and your flocks and your herds, and all that is yours. And I will sustain you there—for there are yet five years of famine—lest you become destitute, you and your household and all that is yours. And behold, your eyes see, and the eyes of my brother Benjamin, that it is my own mouth that is speaking to you. And you shall tell my father all my honor in Egypt, and all that you have seen; and you shall hurry and bring down my father here. And he fell upon the neck of Benjamin his brother and wept, and Benjamin wept upon his neck. And he kissed all his brothers, and wept upon them; and after this his brothers spoke with him. And the report was heard in the house of Pharaoh, saying, Joseph’s brothers have come; and it was good in the eyes of Pharaoh and in the eyes of his servants. And Pharaoh said to Joseph, Say to your brothers: Do this—load your beasts, and go—come to the land of Canaan. And take your father and your households and come to me, and I will give you the good of the land of Egypt, and you shall eat the fat of the land. And you are commanded: Do this—take for yourselves from the land of Egypt wagons for your little ones and for your wives, and carry your father and come. And do not let your eye spare your goods—for the best of all the land of Egypt is yours. And the sons of Israel did so; and Joseph gave them wagons according to Pharaoh’s command, and he gave them provisions for the way.
To all of them he gave, to each man, changes of garments; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver and five changes of garments. And to his father he sent as follows: ten donkeys bearing from the best of Egypt, and ten she-asses bearing grain and bread and food for his father for the way. And he sent his brothers away, and they went; and he said to them, Do not quarrel on the way. And they went up from Egypt and came to the land of Canaan, to Jacob their father. And they told him, saying, Joseph is still alive, and indeed he is ruler over all the land of Egypt. And his heart went numb, for he did not believe them. And they spoke to him all the words of Joseph that he had spoken to them, and he saw the wagons that Joseph had sent to carry him; and the spirit of Jacob their father revived. And Israel said, It is enough—Joseph my son is alive; I will go and see him before I die.