With Jacob's refusal to let Benjamin go, no one has broached the subject of returning to Egypt. But the famine is tightening its grip; the grain is running out. Jacob is forced to in a corner and suggests a return trip to buy "a little food." Reuben's proposal had been rejected. So, Judah steps forward. He identifies Benjamin as his full brother (unlike his father, who had divided the family by favoring the sons of Rachel against the sons of Leah), calling him "our brother." Understanding the nub of the problem, Judah offers himself as surety for Benjamin. He is a type of Christ who, as the writer of Hebrews declares, is our surety. Judah's proposal is quite different from that of Reuben. Reuben was willing to sacrifice his two sons. In contrast, Judah is prepared to place his own life on the line. This is a crucial turning point in the story. For the first time, one of the brothers shows compassion and love. There is still a long way to go, but it is the first step.
To prepare for the trip back to Egypt, Jacob offers wise counsel. First, do not show up empty-handed before the Egyptian ruler. Second, pay restitution. Return the money found in the sacks. (Did the brothers plan on keeping it? Why does the father have to tell them to pay restitution?) Then, as the spiritual head of the family, signified by the resumption of the use of his name, Israel, he offers a prayer. "God Almighty, give you mercy." Although he is resigned to the possibility that he might lose another son, his faith is reviving.
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Kurt Snow serves as a ruling elder at Covenant Reformed Church of Sacramento (RCUS). He served as a member of the Board of Governors of City Seminary of Sacramento from 2000 to 2020.
