Question 1

What does Genesis 45:20 mean?

Accepted Answer

Genesis 45:20 means that Joseph is telling his brothers not to worry about leaving their belongings behind in Canaan, because the best of everything in Egypt will be provided for them. Joseph is reassuring them that they will lack nothing when they come to live in Egypt. In this verse, Joseph is speaking to his brothers after revealing his identity to them. He is sending them back to their father Jacob with instructions to bring the whole family to Egypt during the famine. Joseph, now a powerful leader in Egypt, promises that they will have access to all the good things the land offers, so they do not need to be concerned about their possessions left behind.

Question 2

The Hebrew behind Genesis 45:20

Accepted Answer

"regard" (חָסַךְ, chasakh): This word often means to have concern for or to value something. Joseph is telling his brothers not to be overly concerned or anxious about their belongings. "stuff" (כְּלִי, keli): This word refers to vessels, goods, or personal belongings. Joseph is saying they do not need to worry about their household items or goods. "good" (טוּב, tov): This word means goodness, bounty, or the best things. Joseph is emphasizing that the finest things in Egypt will be available to them.

Question 3

Why Genesis 45:20 matters

Accepted Answer

This verse clears up any fear the brothers might have had about losing their possessions or starting over in a new land, showing Joseph’s care for their well-being. It highlights the generosity and authority Joseph now has in Egypt, able to offer his family the best the land has to offer. The verse connects to the larger story of God providing for Jacob’s family during famine, setting the stage for the Israelites’ future in Egypt.

Genesis 45:20 (KJV)