Genesis 43:25

And they made ready the present against Joseph came at noon: for they heard that they should eat bread there.

Word-by-Word Analysis

וַיָּכִ֙ינוּ֙

H3559

And they made ready

properly, to be erect (i.e., stand perpendicular); hence (causatively) to set up, in a great variety of applications, whether literal (establish, fix,

אֶת

H853

properly, self (but generally used to point out more definitely the object of a verb or preposition, even or namely)

הַמִּנְחָ֔ה

H4503

the present

a donation; euphemistically, tribute; specifically a sacrificial offering (usually bloodless and voluntary)

עַד

H5704

against

as far (or long, or much) as, whether of space (even unto) or time (during, while, until) or degree (equally with)

בּ֥וֹא

H935

came

to go or come (in a wide variety of applications)

יוֹסֵ֖ף

H3130

Joseph

joseph, the name of seven israelites

בַּֽצָּהֳרָ֑יִם

H6672

at noon

a light (i.e., window); dual double light, i.e., noon

כִּ֣י

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

שָֽׁמְע֔וּ

H8085

for they heard

to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)

#10

כִּי

H3588

(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed

#11

שָׁ֖ם

H8033

there (transferring to time) then; often thither, or thence

#12

יֹ֥אכְלוּ

H398

that they should eat

to eat (literally or figuratively)

#13

לָֽחֶם׃

H3899

bread

food (for man or beast), especially bread, or grain (for making it)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Genesis, this passage highlights creation and providence through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Genesis.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the tribal and clan-based society of the ancient Near East. The author writes to address the foundational narrative for Israel's identity and relationship with God, making the emphasis on creation and providence particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of creation and providence, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of fundamental Christian doctrine?
How does this verse's literary context within Genesis chapter 43 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding creation and providence as presented in this verse, particularly in light of contemporary challenges facing the church and individual believers?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

People

Study Resources

Biblical Timeline