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.
GENESIS 43:14KJVWhat does Genesis 43:14 mean?
Genesis 43:14 records Jacob praying that God Almighty would show mercy to his sons as they return to Egypt, hoping that the Egyptian official will release both Simeon (their other brother) and Benjamin. Jacob resigns himself to the risk, saying that if he loses his children, he must accept it.
In this verse, Jacob is speaking to his sons before they go back to Egypt during the famine. He is anxious because he must send Benjamin, his youngest and most beloved son, along with them to satisfy the demands of the Egyptian ruler (who is actually Joseph, though Jacob does not know this). Jacob’s words show both his deep concern and his willingness to entrust the outcome to God’s mercy.
The Hebrew behind Genesis 43:14
- "God" (אֵל, El, H410) and "Almighty" (שַׁדַּי, Shaddai, H7706): Jacob uses the title "El Shaddai," often translated "God Almighty," which emphasizes God's supreme power and ability to protect or provide.
- "Mercy" (רַחֲמִים, rachamim, H7356): This word carries the sense of deep compassion or tender care, not just a legal pardon but heartfelt kindness.
- "Bereaved" (שָׁכַל, shakol, H7921): Jacob repeats this word for emphasis, showing his acceptance of possible loss and grief, highlighting the depth of his anxiety and surrender.
Why Genesis 43:14 matters
- This verse shows Jacob’s struggle between fear and faith, as he must let go of his beloved son Benjamin and trust God with the outcome.
- The use of "El Shaddai" connects this moment to earlier promises God made to the patriarchs, reminding the reader of God’s ongoing role in their story.
- Jacob’s words set the emotional tone for the reunion that is about to happen, showing the cost and risk involved in reconciliation and trust.