GENESIS 45

Read 1-3

Verse 3 Why would he ask again if his father was still alive? Still didn't trust his brothers? Why were the brothers dismayed? A type of Christ at the Last Judgment.

Verses 4-15 present an interesting combination of emotion and well thought-out statements.

Verse 5 Primary and secondary causes distinguished for events. Doesn't excuse their actions, however, as if they had been mere tools (“Such things must be, but woe be...”).

Verse 8 Repetition (of v. 5 thought) used to stress the importance of the theological point. Easier to forgive others if and when we realize that their actions are part of a larger scheme under God's control. Father may mean “authority” or stand for a particular position in Egyptian government. Egyptian records use this term for a vizier.

Verse 10 Fits historical records in which Semitic tribes are given permission to graze in this rich Nile delta land bordering the Sinai.

Verse 12 He now addresses them directly in Hebrew rather than through a translator? Sort of like Paul affixing his handwriting at the end of his letters for emphasis.

Verses 14-15 A true reconciliation unlike the temporary reconciliation of Jacob and Esau.

Verses 16-24

Verse 20 A type of us facing death. Don't cling to your possessions because you will be getting something much better from God.

Verse 22 Bestowal of garments and giving of silver now completely reverses events leading to Joseph's captivity.

Verse 24 May be an injunction (a) not to resort to mutual recriminations or (b) be worried about Joseph seeking revenge or (c) be jealous about Benjamin's greater gifts (note extra clothing such as he had at beginning of story). Joseph is not afraid to put Benjamin in same danger that he was in relation to his brothers.

Verses 25-28

Verse 26 Hebrew literally says that his heart stopped, perhaps a minor seizure not unusual for someone of his age.

Verse 27 Like doubting Thomas, he is only convinced by a cold, hard fact (like Joseph's garment at start of story).

Verse 28 Still quite self centered and a little overly dramatic. He does have faith, however, and thus is called Israel in this verse.

Speculate on whether the brothers or Joseph ever told Jacob why Joseph was in Egypt. What about the idea that you have to ask forgiveness of everyone you have wronged? What if they don't know you have wronged them? You could be doing more harm that good.