Genesis Chapter 45 — Joseph Reveals His Identity
Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers and forgives them, explaining that God used their actions to save lives. He then sends for his father, Jacob, to move the family to Egypt.
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Notable Verses
Genesis 45:5
“Now don’t be grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that you sold me here, for God sent me before you to preserve life.”
This verse highlights Joseph's perspective on divine providence over human actions.
Genesis 45:8
“So now it wasn’t you who sent me here, but God, and he has made me a father to Pharaoh, lord of all his house, and ruler over all the land of Egypt.”
Joseph emphasizes that his status was ultimately the result of God's plan rather than his brothers' betrayal.
Genesis 45:28
“Israel said, "It is enough. Joseph my son is still alive. I will go and see him before I die."”
This marks the emotional climax of Jacob's mourning and his hope being restored.
Chapter Summary
In Genesis 45, Joseph finally reveals his true identity to his brothers, weeping so loudly that the Egyptians hear him. He immediately eases their fear and guilt, explaining that while they sold him into slavery, God orchestrated the events to preserve life during the severe seven-year famine. Joseph details the remaining five years of famine and instructs his brothers to bring their father, Jacob, and their entire households to live in the fertile land of Goshen. Pharaoh supports this plan, providing wagons and provisions for the journey. The brothers return to Canaan with gifts and the news that Joseph is alive. Initially, Jacob is overwhelmed and skeptical, but upon seeing the Egyptian wagons and hearing Joseph's message, his spirit is revived, and he resolves to see his son before he dies.
Frequently Asked Questions
The text indicates that the brothers were initially unable to answer him because they were terrified in his presence. Joseph had to invite them to come closer and reassure them that he forgave them.
Joseph told his brothers that it was actually God who sent him to Egypt to preserve life and to save their family through a great deliverance, rather than just the result of their selling him.
Joseph invited his father and the entire family to settle in the land of Goshen, where they could be near him and have enough provisions to survive the remaining years of famine.
Pharaoh and his servants were pleased with the news. Pharaoh personally commanded that the brothers be given wagons and the best of the land of Egypt to bring their families back.
Study Note
The use of Egyptian wagons for transport indicates Pharaoh's personal favor and the high status Joseph held in the royal court.
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