Genesis 43:28 (KJV)

What does Genesis 43:28 mean?

Genesis 43:28 shows Joseph’s brothers respectfully answering him about their father’s well-being, saying their father is alive and healthy, and then bowing deeply before Joseph. This moment highlights their humility and respect in front of Joseph, who holds great authority in Egypt, though they do not yet know his true identity.

In this scene, Joseph’s brothers are speaking to Joseph during their second trip to Egypt to buy food. Joseph, still unrecognized by them, asks about their father. The brothers call their father “your servant” and report that he is alive and in good health. Their act of bowing and making obeisance is a gesture of deep respect, fitting for someone of Joseph’s apparent high rank.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 43:28

• שָׁלוֹם (shalom, H7965): Translated here as “health,” this word often means peace, well-being, or completeness. The brothers are not just saying their father is physically healthy, but that he is generally well.
• וַיִּשְׁתַּחֲווּ (vayishtachavu, from H7812): This word means to bow down or prostrate oneself, showing deep respect or submission. The brothers’ action fulfills Joseph’s earlier dreams about his family bowing to him, even though they do not realize it.
• חַי (chai, H2416): Translated as “alive,” this word simply affirms that their father is still living, which was a concern for Joseph.

Why Genesis 43:28 matters

• This verse fulfills the earlier dreams Joseph had about his brothers bowing to him, which set much of the story in motion.
• The use of “your servant our father” shows the brothers’ humility and the reversal of their earlier prideful attitudes toward Joseph.
• The emphasis on their father’s well-being reassures Joseph and sets up the emotional reunion that will come later in the story.