“And if thou wilt send our brother with us, we will go down and buy thee food: But if thou wilt not send him, we will not go down: for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother be with you.”
In Genesis 43:4, Judah is speaking to his father, Jacob, about the conditions set by the ruler of Egypt for them to purchase food during the famine. The ruler had demanded that they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, with them in order to prove their honesty and integrity. Judah is explaining to his father that they have no choice but to bring Benjamin with them if they are to buy food. He recognizes the seriousness of the situation, knowing that they will not be able to see the ruler again unless they comply with his conditions. This passage highlights the desperation of the situation and the importance of family loyalty. It also sets the stage for the dramatic events that will unfold as the story of Joseph and his brothers continues to unfold.
Image by Ai Junkie
