And he inquired about their welfare and said, “Is your father well, the old man of whom you spoke? Is he still alive?” They said, “Your servant our father is well; he is still alive.” And they bowed their heads and prostrated themselves. And he lifted up his eyes and saw his brother Benjamin, his mother’s son, and said, “Is this your youngest brother, of whom you spoke to me? God be gracious to you, my son!” Then Joseph hurried out, for his compassion grew warm for his brother, and he sought a place to weep. And he entered his chamber and wept there. Then he washed his face and came out. And controlling himself he said, “Serve the food.” They served him by himself, and them by themselves, and the Egyptians who ate with him by themselves, because the Egyptians could not eat with the Hebrews, for that is an abomination to the Egyptians. And they sat before him, the firstborn according to his birthright and the youngest according to his youth. And the men looked at one another in amazement. Portions were taken to them from Joseph’s table, but Benjamin’s portion was five times as much as any of theirs. And they drank and were merry with him.
Comment: The immediate impact of this passage is obvious to any reader. Joseph knowing exactly who they are still keeps his relationship hidden but treats them ‘royally’. They were surprised that they were seated by age sequence. He is very formal and shows no sign of closeness in the seating arrangements and doesn’t reveal who they are to him or that he knows all about them. Having his only full brother (same mum and dad) revealed, he runs away to hide his emotions and has to have some work done on his face before he is able to re-present himself. Then the feast begins and without saying anything he spoils his full brother with more food than anyone could possibly eat. The brothers are puzzled; he’s not prepared to reveal his full plan yet; he gets them drunk (‘merry’ here is the word for ‘inebriated’!)
Prayer: This reminds us, Father, that we often have no idea what the future holds. Thank You that You do!
As I read it! 