King James Version

What Does Genesis 43:14 Mean?

“And God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may send away your other brother, and Benjamin. If I be bereaved of my children, I am bereaved. If: or, And I, as I have been, etc.”

Context

And take double money in your hand; and the money that was brought again in the mouth of your sacks, carry it again in your hand; peradventure it was an oversight:

Take also your brother, and arise, go again unto the man:

And God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may send away your other brother, and Benjamin. If I be bereaved of my children, I am bereaved. If: or, And I, as I have been, etc.

And the men took that present, and they took double money in their hand, and Benjamin; and rose up, and went down to Egypt, and stood before Joseph.

And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the ruler of his house, Bring these men home, and slay , and make ready; for these men shall dine with me at noon. slay: Heb. kill a killing dine: Heb. eat

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Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(14) **God Almighty.**—Heb., *El Shaddai, *the name by which Abraham’s covenant (Genesis 17:1) was renewed to Jacob (Genesis 35:11). **If I be bereaved . . . —**An expression of pious resignation, united with heartfelt anguish. The inserted words *of my children *lessen the pathos of the patriarch’s ejaculation, which literally is “and I, if I am bereaved, I am bereaved.”

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Genesis 43:14 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.