What Special Treatment Did Joseph Give Benjamin?

The story of Joseph and his brothers in Egypt is one of the most emotionally charged narratives in the Bible, and the arrival of Benjamin, Joseph’s youngest brother and full brother from Rachel, introduces a pivotal moment of compassion, strategy, and familial love. Joseph’s special treatment of Benjamin is significant because it reveals his deep affection, his careful testing of his brothers, and the subtleties of his leadership.

Context: Benjamin Arrives in Egypt

During the famine in Canaan, Joseph’s brothers traveled to Egypt to buy grain. Joseph, now the governor of Egypt, had already tested them by accusing them of being spies and secretly returning their money. He had detained Simeon to ensure that they would return with Benjamin, as Joseph wanted to see his full brother and the son of his beloved mother, Rachel. Benjamin’s arrival marked the emotional climax of Joseph’s careful plan to reconcile with his family and test the integrity of his brothers.

Special Treatment of Benjamin

Joseph’s special treatment of Benjamin occurred both publicly, during the feast, and privately, through his actions and instructions to his servants:

1. Favoritism in Seating and Portions
   During the meal Joseph prepared for his brothers, he gave Benjamin the largest and choicest portion of     

   1. food. While the other brothers received standard servings, Benjamin’s portion was far superior. This act was a clear demonstration of Joseph’s affection and favoritism toward his youngest brother.

   2. Increased Attention and Honor
      Joseph not only gave Benjamin more food but also paid him special attention, ensuring he was treated with respect and care. The brothers would have immediately noticed the preferential treatment, which was part of Joseph’s subtle strategy to observe their reactions and measure their loyalty and character.

   3. Provision of Extra Silver and Gifts
      After the feast, Joseph instructed his steward to place extra provisions and silver in Benjamin’s sack, including the silver cup that Joseph later used to test his brothers further. This was not only a generous gift but also a tactical move to gauge the behavior of his brothers and see if they would protect or abandon Benjamin.

   4. Protective and Strategic Intent
      Joseph’s treatment of Benjamin was not merely emotional; it was also strategic. He wanted to:

      • Test whether his brothers had changed since they had sold him into slavery.

      • Determine whether they would act honorably toward Benjamin.

      • Prepare the ground for reconciliation without causing harm to his youngest brother.

   Symbolism of Joseph’s Special Treatment

   The way Joseph treated Benjamin carries deep symbolic meaning:

   • Affection and Familial Loyalty: Joseph’s favoritism reflects the bond he shared with Benjamin as his full brother and the son of Rachel, whom Joseph deeply loved.

   • Testing Character: By showing favoritism, Joseph created a situation to reveal whether his brothers were jealous, protective, or self-serving.

   • Mercy and Forgiveness: While he could have sought revenge or acted harshly, Joseph’s careful generosity demonstrates mercy tempered with wisdom.

   Conclusion

   Joseph’s special treatment of Benjamin was a blend of emotional affection, strategic foresight, and moral testing. By giving him the best portions, extra provisions, and focused attention, Joseph honored his beloved brother while subtly testing the integrity of the other brothers. This careful approach ultimately paved the way for family reconciliation, forgiveness, and the restoration of bonds broken years earlier.

 

 

How did Joseph respond when Benjamin arrived in Egypt?