Genesis 43:11

Genesis 43:11 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your packs and carry them down as a gift for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachios and almonds.

King James Version KJV

And their father Israel said unto them, If it must be so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:

American Standard Version ASV

And their father Israel said unto them, If it be so now, do this: take of the choice fruits of the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spicery and myrrh, nuts, and almonds;

Bible in Basic English BBE

Then their father Israel said to them, If it has to be so, then do this: take of the best fruits of the land in your vessels to give the man, perfumes and honey and spices and nuts:

Free Bible Version FBV

“If it has to be, then this is what you'll do,” Israel replied. “Take with you the best our country produces. Pack your bags with gifts for the man—balm, a little honey, spices, myrrh, pistachios, and almonds.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Then their father Israel sayd vnto them, If it must needes be so now, do thus: take of the best fruites of the lande in your vessels, and bring the man a present, a little rosen, and a little hony, spices and myrrhe, nuttes, and almondes:

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And Israel their father saith unto them, 'If so, now, this do: take of the praised thing of the land in your vessels, and take down to the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices and myrrh, nuts and almonds;

World English Bible WEB

Their father, Israel, said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Take from the choice fruits of the land in your bags, and carry down a present for the man, a little balm, a little honey, spices and myrrh, nuts, and almonds;

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And their father Israel said to them, If it must be so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry to the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Then Israel said to them: If it must needs be so, do what you will: take of the best fruits of the land in your vessels, and carry down presents to the man, a little balm, and honey, and storax, myrrh, turpentine, and almonds.

Translation for Translators T4T

Then their father Jacob said to them, “If there is no other way, do this: Put in your sacks some of the best things that are grown in this land, and take them down to the man as a gift. Take some balm/perfume and honey and spices and myrrh/ointment, some pistachio nuts, and almonds.

Plain English Version PEV

Then their father Jacob said, “All right. I can see that you mob have to take Benjamin to Egypt country. But first, I want you to get some of the best things from our country, so that you can take them as presents for that man, the one that is in charge of Egypt. Get some honey, and some nuts. And get some perfume, and some bush medicine called myrrh. Put all those things into your bags, and take them to Egypt, and give them to that man that is in charge.”

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Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 43:11

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Genesis 43:11 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר אֲלֵ/הֶ֜ם יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל אֲבִי/הֶ֗ם אִם כֵּ֣ן אֵפוֹא֮ זֹ֣את עֲשׂוּ֒ קְח֞וּ מִ/זִּמְרַ֤ת הָ/אָ֨רֶץ֙ בִּ/כְלֵי/כֶ֔ם וְ/הוֹרִ֥ידוּ לָ/אִ֖ישׁ מִנְחָ֑ה מְעַ֤ט צֳרִי֙ וּ/מְעַ֣ט דְּבַ֔שׁ נְכֹ֣את וָ/לֹ֔ט בָּטְנִ֖ים וּ/שְׁקֵדִֽים

וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

אֲלֵ/הֶ֜ם ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 Israel N-proper

אֲבִי/הֶ֗ם ʼâb H1 father N-ms | Suff

אִם ʼim H518 if Conj

כֵּ֣ן kên H3651 right Part

אֵפוֹא֮ ʼêphôw H645 then Adv

זֹ֣את zôʼth H2063 this Pron

עֲשׂוּ֒ ʻâsâh H6213 to make V-Qal-Impv-2mp

קְח֞וּ lâqach H3947 to take V-Qal-Impv-2mp

מִ/זִּמְרַ֤ת zimrâh H2173 best Prep | N-fs

הָ/אָ֨רֶץ֙ ʼerets H776 land Art | N-cs

בִּ/כְלֵי/כֶ֔ם kᵉlîy H3627 article/utensil Prep | N-mp | Suff

וְ/הוֹרִ֥ידוּ yârad H3381 to go down Conj | V-Hiphil-Impv-2mp

לָ/אִ֖ישׁ ʼîysh H376 man Prep | N-ms

מִנְחָ֑ה minchâh H4503 offering N-fs

מְעַ֤ט mᵉʻaṭ H4592 little N-ms

צֳרִי֙ tsᵉrîy H6875 balsam N-ms

וּ/מְעַ֣ט mᵉʻaṭ H4592 little Conj | N-ms

דְּבַ֔שׁ dᵉbash H1706 honey N-ms

נְכֹ֣את nᵉkôʼth H5219 tragacanth gum N-fs

וָ/לֹ֔ט lôṭ H3910 myrrh Conj | N-ms

בָּטְנִ֖ים bôṭen H992 pistachio N-mp

וּ/שְׁקֵדִֽים shâqêd H8247 almond Conj | N-mp

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 43:11

וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms

This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.

Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)

Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.

אֲלֵ/הֶ֜ם ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.

Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)

Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.

יִשְׂרָאֵ֣ל Yisrâʼêl H3478 "Israel" N-proper

Israel is the symbolic name of Jacob, also referring to his descendants. Jacob, son of Isaac and Rebekah, had 12 sons who became the tribes of Israel, as told in Genesis 25:26. His story is crucial to the Bible's narrative.

Definition: A man living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.25.26; son of: Isaac (H3327) and Rebekah (H7259); brother of: Esau (H6215); married to Rachel (H7354), Leah (H3812), Zilpah (H2153) and Bilhah (H1090A); father of: Reuben (H7205), Simeon (H8095), Levi (H3878), Judah (H3063), Dan (H1835H), Naphtali (H5321), Gad (H1410), Asher (H0836), Issachar (H3485), Zebulun (H2074), Dinah (H1783), Joseph (H3130) and Benjamin (H1144); also called Jacob frequently § Israel = "God prevails" 1) the second name for Jacob given to him by God after his wrestling with the angel at Peniel 2) the name of the descendants and the nation of the descendants of Jacob 2a) the name of the nation until the death of Solomon and the split 2b) the name used and given to the northern kingdom consisting of the 10 tribes under Jeroboam; the southern kingdom was known as Judah 2c) the name of the nation after the return from exile

Usage: Occurs in 2231 OT verses. KJV: Israel. See also: Genesis 32:29; Exodus 13:18; Exodus 40:38.

אֲבִי/הֶ֗ם ʼâb H1 "father" N-ms | Suff

In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.

Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)

Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.

אִם ʼim H518 "if" Conj

This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.

Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather

Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.

כֵּ֣ן kên H3651 "right" Part

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means 'so' or 'thus', often used to show agreement or confirmation, like in the book of Genesis. It can also mean 'rightly' or 'justly', as in doing something the correct way. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: adv adj 1) right, just, honest, true, veritable 1a) right, just, honest 1b) correct 1c) true, veritable

Usage: Occurs in 737 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after that (this, -ward, -wards), as... as, [phrase] (for-) asmuch as yet, [phrase] be (for which) cause, [phrase] following, howbeit, in (the) like (manner, -wise), [idiom] the more, right, (even) so, state, straightway, such (thing), surely, [phrase] there (where) -fore, this, thus, true, well, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:7; Exodus 37:19; Judges 7:17.

אֵפוֹא֮ ʼêphôw H645 "then" Adv

This Hebrew word is used to point to a specific time or place, often translated as then or now. In Genesis 26:22, Isaac uses this word to mark the time when he finally finds success and prosperity.

Definition: 1) then, now, so 1a) (who) then, (what) then (with interrog) 1b) then (with imperative-i.e. know then) 1c) if...then (with adv)

Usage: Occurs in 15 OT verses. KJV: here, now, where? See also: Genesis 27:33; Job 17:15; Proverbs 6:3.

זֹ֣את zôʼth H2063 "this" Pron

This Hebrew word means this or that, often used to point out something specific. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 570 OT verses. KJV: hereby (-in, -with), it, likewise, the one (other, same), she, so (much), such (deed), that, therefore, these, this (thing), thus. See also: Genesis 2:23; Numbers 7:88; Judges 1:27.

עֲשׂוּ֒ ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" V-Qal-Impv-2mp

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

קְח֞וּ lâqach H3947 "to take" V-Qal-Impv-2mp

This Hebrew word means to take or get something, and it is used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to take a wife, to take possession of something, or to receive a gift. For example, in Genesis 2:22, God takes a rib from Adam to create Eve.

Definition: : take 1) to take, get, fetch, lay hold of, seize, receive, acquire, buy, bring, marry, take a wife, snatch, take away 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to take, take in the hand 1a2) to take and carry along 1a3) to take from, take out of, take, carry away, take away 1a4) to take to or for a person, procure, get, take possession of, select, choose, take in marriage, receive, accept 1a5) to take up or upon, put upon 1a6) to fetch 1a7) to take, lead, conduct 1a8) to take, capture, seize 1a9) to take, carry off 1a10) to take (vengeance) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be captured 1b2) to be taken away, be removed 1b3) to be taken, brought unto 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be taken from or out of 1c2) to be stolen from 1c3) to be taken captive 1c4) to be taken away, be removed 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be taken unto, be brought unto 1d2) to be taken out of 1d3) to be taken away 1e) (Hithpael) 1e1) to take hold of oneself 1e2) to flash about (of lightning)

Usage: Occurs in 909 OT verses. KJV: accept, bring, buy, carry away, drawn, fetch, get, infold, [idiom] many, mingle, place, receive(-ing), reserve, seize, send for, take (away, -ing, up), use, win. See also: Genesis 2:15; Genesis 34:17; Exodus 30:23.

מִ/זִּמְרַ֤ת zimrâh H2173 "best" Prep | N-fs

This word refers to the best or choicest fruit, like the firstfruits offered to God in Leviticus 23. It's about selecting the finest produce, often for special occasions. In the Bible, it's translated as 'best fruit'.

Definition: choice fruits, choice products

Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: best fruit. See also: Genesis 43:11.

הָ/אָ֨רֶץ֙ ʼerets H776 "land" Art | N-cs

The land or earth refers to the soil or ground, and can also mean a country, territory, or region. In the Bible, it is used to describe the earth and its inhabitants, and is often translated as 'land' or 'country'.

Definition: : soil 1) land, earth 1a) earth 1a1) whole earth (as opposed to a part) 1a2) earth (as opposed to heaven) 1a3) earth (inhabitants) 1b) land 1b1) country, territory 1b2) district, region 1b3) tribal territory 1b4) piece of ground 1b5) land of Canaan, Israel 1b6) inhabitants of land 1b7) Sheol, land without return, (under) world 1b8) city (-state) 1c) ground, surface of the earth 1c1) ground 1c2) soil 1d) (in phrases) 1d1) people of the land 1d2) space or distance of country (in measurements of distance) 1d3) level or plain country 1d4) land of the living 1d5) end(s) of the earth 1e) (almost wholly late in usage) 1e1) lands, countries 1e1a) often in contrast to Canaan

Usage: Occurs in 2190 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] common, country, earth, field, ground, land, [idiom] natins, way, [phrase] wilderness, world. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 18:18; Genesis 42:13.

בִּ/כְלֵי/כֶ֔ם kᵉlîy H3627 "article/utensil" Prep | N-mp | Suff

This Hebrew word refers to any object or tool, like a utensil or a piece of furniture. It is used to describe a wide range of items, from musical instruments to weapons. It emphasizes the object's purpose or function.

Definition: 1) article, vessel, implement, utensil 1a) article, object (general) 1b) utensil, implement, apparatus, vessel 1b1) implement (of hunting or war) 1b2) implement (of music) 1b3) implement, tool (of labour) 1b4) equipment, yoke (of oxen) 1b5) utensils, furniture 1c) vessel, receptacle (general) 1d) vessels (boats) of paper-reed

Usage: Occurs in 276 OT verses. KJV: armour(-bearer), artillery, bag, carriage, [phrase] furnish, furniture, instrument, jewel, that is made of, [idiom] one from another, that which pertaineth, pot, [phrase] psaltery, sack, stuff, thing, tool, vessel, ware, weapon, [phrase] whatsoever. See also: Genesis 24:53; 1 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 8:26.

וְ/הוֹרִ֥ידוּ yârad H3381 "to go down" Conj | V-Hiphil-Impv-2mp

To go down or descend, like going to a lower place or falling. It appears in Genesis and Exodus, describing people and things moving downwards.

Definition: 1) to go down, descend, decline, march down, sink down 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go or come down 1a2) to sink 1a3) to be prostrated 1a4) to come down (of revelation) 1b) (Hiphil) 1b1) to bring down 1b2) to send down 1b3) to take down 1b4) to lay prostrate 1b5) to let down 1c) (Hophal) 1c1) to be brought down 1c2) to be taken down

Usage: Occurs in 345 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] abundantly, bring down, carry down, cast down, (cause to) come(-ing) down, fall (down), get down, go(-ing) down(-ward), hang down, [idiom] indeed, let down, light (down), put down (off), (cause to, let) run down, sink, subdue, take down. See also: Genesis 11:5; Judges 3:28; 2 Kings 1:15.

לָ/אִ֖ישׁ ʼîysh H376 "man" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.

Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)

Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.

מִנְחָ֑ה minchâh H4503 "offering" N-fs

The Hebrew word for offering refers to a gift or donation, often given to God as a sacrifice. In Leviticus 2:1, it describes a grain offering. It can also mean tribute or present.

Definition: : offering/sacrifice 1) gift, tribute, offering, present, oblation, sacrifice, meat offering 1a) gift, present 1b) tribute 1c) offering (to God) 1d) grain offering

Usage: Occurs in 194 OT verses. KJV: gift, oblation, (meat) offering, present, sacrifice. See also: Genesis 4:3; Numbers 29:28; Psalms 20:4.

מְעַ֤ט mᵉʻaṭ H4592 "little" N-ms

This Hebrew word means something is small or little in amount, like a few people or a short time. It appears in various Bible translations as almost, few, or small. In the Bible, it often describes something that is limited or lacking.

Definition: 1) littleness, few, a little, fewness 1a) little, small, littleness, fewness, too little, yet a little 1b) like a little, within a little, almost, just, hardly, shortly, little worth

Usage: Occurs in 92 OT verses. KJV: almost (some, very) few(-er, -est), lightly, little (while), (very) small (matter, thing), some, soon, [idiom] very. See also: Genesis 18:4; Job 15:11; Psalms 2:12.

צֳרִי֙ tsᵉrîy H6875 "balsam" N-ms

This word refers to a type of balsam, a fragrant resin used for medicine and trade. It was a valuable commodity in ancient times, used to heal and perfume.

Definition: 1) a kind of balsam, balm, salve 1a) as merchandise 1b) as medicine

Usage: Occurs in 6 OT verses. KJV: balm. See also: Genesis 37:25; Jeremiah 46:11; Jeremiah 8:22.

וּ/מְעַ֣ט mᵉʻaṭ H4592 "little" Conj | N-ms

Definition: 1) littleness, few, a little, fewness 1a) little, small, littleness, fewness, too little, yet a little 1b) like a little, within a little, almost, just, hardly, shortly, little worth

דְּבַ֔שׁ dᵉbash H1706 "honey" N-ms

In the Bible, this word means honey, a sweet and valuable food. It was used to describe the Promised Land as a place of abundance and blessing, flowing with milk and honey. The word also appears in stories of bees and honey production.

Definition: honey

Usage: Occurs in 54 OT verses. KJV: honey(-comb). See also: Genesis 43:11; 1 Samuel 14:29; Psalms 19:11.

נְכֹ֣את nᵉkôʼth H5219 "tragacanth gum" N-fs

This word refers to a type of aromatic gum, possibly styrax or tragacanth gum. It's used to describe a spice or fragrance in the Bible.

Definition: 1) a spice 1a) perhaps tragacanth gum

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: spicery(-ces). See also: Genesis 37:25; Genesis 43:11.

וָ/לֹ֔ט lôṭ H3910 "myrrh" Conj | N-ms

This word refers to myrrh, a fragrant gum extracted from plants, probably ladanum. Myrrh was a valuable commodity in ancient times, used for perfume and incense. In the Bible, it appears as a gift or offering.

Definition: 1) myrrh 1a) an aromatic gum exuded by the leaves of the rock rose

Usage: Occurs in 2 OT verses. KJV: myrrh. See also: Genesis 37:25; Genesis 43:11.

בָּטְנִ֖ים bôṭen H992 "pistachio" N-mp

This word describes a type of nut, specifically the pistachio nut, which was considered a delicacy. It is mentioned in the Bible as a gift given to Joseph by his father Jacob through his brothers. The KJV translates it as nut.

Definition: pistachio nuts-delicacy given to Joseph by Jacob through his sons

Usage: Occurs in 1 OT verses. KJV: nut. See also: Genesis 43:11.

וּ/שְׁקֵדִֽים shâqêd H8247 "almond" Conj | N-mp

The almond tree or nut is mentioned in Numbers and Genesis, often symbolizing new life and growth. In the Bible, the almond tree is noted for being one of the first trees to bloom in spring.

Definition: 1) almond tree, almonds 1a) almond (the nut) 1b) almond-tree

Usage: Occurs in 4 OT verses. KJV: almond (tree). See also: Genesis 43:11; Ecclesiastes 12:5; Jeremiah 1:11.

Study Notes — Genesis 43:11

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Genesis 43:11 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 43:11
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 43:11
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 43:11
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 43:11
Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 43:11
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 43:11
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 43:11
Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 43:11
Sermons on Genesis 43:11

Context — The Return to Egypt with Benjamin

9I will guarantee his safety. You may hold me personally responsible. If I do not bring him back and set him before you, then may I bear the guilt before you all my life. 10If we had not delayed, we could have come and gone twice by now.”

11Then their father Israel said to them, “If it must be so, then do this: Put some of the best products of the land in your packs and carry them down as a gift for the man—a little balm and a little honey, spices and myrrh, pistachios and almonds.

12Take double the silver with you so that you may return the silver that was put back into the mouths of your sacks. Perhaps it was a mistake. 13Take your brother as well, and return to the man at once.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Genesis 37:25	And as they sat down to eat a meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were carrying spices, balm, and myrrh on their way down to Egypt.
2	Jeremiah 8:22	Is there no balm in Gilead? Is no physician there? Why then has the health of the daughter of my people not been restored?
3	Ezekiel 27:17	Judah and the land of Israel traded with you; they exchanged wheat from Minnith, cakes and honey, oil and balm for your merchandise.
4	1 Samuel 9:7	“If we do go,” Saul replied, “what can we give the man? For the bread in our packs is gone, and there is no gift to take to the man of God. What do we have?”
5	Proverbs 18:16	A man’s gift opens doors for him, and brings him before great men.
6	Esther 4:16	“Go and assemble all the Jews who can be found in Susa, and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day, and I and my maidens will fast as you do. After that, I will go to the king, even though it is against the law. And if I perish, I perish! ”
7	Genesis 33:10	But Jacob insisted, “No, please! If I have found favor in your sight, then receive this gift from my hand. For indeed, I have seen your face, and it is like seeing the face of God, since you have received me favorably.
8	Genesis 32:13–21	Jacob spent the night there, and from what he had brought with him, he selected a gift for his brother Esau: 200 female goats, 20 male goats, 200 ewes, 20 rams, 30 milk camels with their young, 40 cows, 10 bulls, 20 female donkeys, and 10 male donkeys. He entrusted them to his servants in separate herds and told them, “Go on ahead of me, and keep some distance between the herds.” He instructed the one in the lead, “When my brother Esau meets you and asks, ‘To whom do you belong, where are you going, and whose animals are these before you?’ then you are to say, ‘They belong to your servant Jacob. They are a gift, sent to my lord Esau. And behold, Jacob is behind us.’” He also instructed the second, the third, and all those following behind the herds: “When you meet Esau, you are to say the same thing to him. You are also to say, ‘Look, your servant Jacob is right behind us.’” For he thought, “I will appease Esau with the gift that is going before me. After that I can face him, and perhaps he will accept me. ” So Jacob’s gifts went on before him, while he spent the night in the camp.
9	1 Samuel 25:27	Now let this gift your servant has brought to my lord be given to the young men who follow you.
10	2 Kings 20:12	At that time Merodach-baladan son of Baladan king of Babylon sent letters and a gift to Hezekiah, for he had heard about Hezekiah’s illness.

Genesis 43:11 Summary

[In Genesis 43:11, Israel tells his sons to take some of the best products of their land as a gift to the man in Egypt, showing respect and kindness to those in positions of authority. This is similar to how we are called to honor and respect those in authority over us, as seen in Romans 13:1-7. By taking these gifts, Israel's sons were able to show the man in Egypt that they came in peace and respect, and we can learn from their example by being respectful and kind to others. We can also trust God's sovereignty in uncertain situations, just like Israel did, and take steps of faith, knowing that God is in control, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6.]

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Israel tell his sons to take gifts to the man in Egypt?

Israel told his sons to take gifts to the man in Egypt as a sign of respect and to potentially ease any tension, as seen in Genesis 43:11, where it says to take some of the best products of the land as a gift for the man.

What was the significance of the specific gifts mentioned in Genesis 43:11?

The gifts mentioned, such as balm, honey, spices, myrrh, pistachios, and almonds, were likely chosen because they were highly valued in ancient times, similar to the expensive spices and oils used to anoint Jesus in Matthew 26:7.

How does this verse relate to the concept of hospitality in the Bible?

This verse shows the importance of hospitality and respect for others, as Israel is trying to make a good impression on the man in Egypt, similar to how Abraham showed hospitality to the strangers in Genesis 18:1-8.

What can we learn from Israel's actions in this verse about trusting God's sovereignty?

Israel's actions in this verse show that even in uncertain situations, we can trust God's sovereignty and take steps of faith, as seen in Proverbs 3:5-6, which says to trust in the Lord with all our heart and lean not on our own understanding.

Reflection Questions

What are some ways I can show respect and kindness to those in positions of authority over me, just like Israel's sons were instructed to do?
How can I trust God's sovereignty in uncertain situations, like Israel did when he sent his sons back to Egypt?
What gifts or talents has God given me that I can use to bless others and show them respect, just like the gifts mentioned in Genesis 43:11?
In what ways can I apply the principle of hospitality and respect for others in my daily life, whether it's in my home, workplace, or community?

Gill's Exposition on Genesis 43:11

And their father said unto them,.... Being in some measure convinced by their reasonings, and in part at least reconciled to let Benjamin go with them, there being nothing to be done, he perceived,

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 43:11

And their father Israel said unto them, If it must be so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey,

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 43:11

Of all which see . The nuts were of that kind which we call pistaches, as some Hebrew and other expositors render the word; for that was both an excellent fruit, and peculiar to Judea and Syria, and well agreeing with the almonds which here follow.

Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 43:11

Genesis 43:11 And their father Israel said unto them, If [it must be] so now, do this; take of the best fruits in the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present, a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh, nuts, and almonds:Ver. 11. If it must be so now, &c.] Perplexity is blind and untractable. Let the mind but settle, and it will soon yield to a reasonable motion, if seasonable, especially, as this of Judah was: for, besides the weightiness of his words, necessity now spake for him, that most powerful orator. Take of the best fruits.] De laudatissimis rebus, saith Juulus. Of the verse or melody, saith the original; that is, of the most praiseworthy fruits; such as deserve to be commended in verse, and sung of, to the praise of God the giver. A little balm, and a little honey.] Great men regard not the worth of the gift, but the will of the giver. If I had had more, I would have given more, said that Greek to Augustus, and it was accepted. The poor Persian that met Artaxerxes with a handful of water, out of the river Cyprus, went away well rewarded. So did the gardener that presented the Duke of Burgundy with a rape root; which, when the master of his house observed, he presented his lord with a brave small saddle horse, looking for like liberality, but was disappointed. Ex carmine, vel melodia, vel modulatione, vel denique Psalmo. - Isa. lxv. 8. Eιπλεονειχον, πλεονεδιδουν. - Aelian.

Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 43:11

(11) The best fruits.—Heb., the song, that is, whatever in the land is most celebrated in song. In your vessels.—The word used in Genesis 42:25, where see Note. Concerning this present two remarks must be made; the first, that it proves that though there was not rain enough in Palestine to bring the corn to perfection, yet that there was some small supply, sufficient to maintain a certain amount of vegetation; and but for this Jacob could not have kept his cattle alive (Genesis 47:1). And next, the smallness of the present does not so much show that Jacob had very simple ideas respecting the greatness of the king of Egypt, as that there was a scarcity even of these fruits. Probably the trade in them had ceased, and therefore even a moderate quantity ‘would be welcome. For the words rendered balm, spices and myrrh really balsam, gum-tragacanth and ladanum), see Note on Genesis 37:25. Honey.—As both the honey made by bees and date honey were common in Egypt, many suppose that this was grape-honey, prepared by boiling down the juice of ripe grapes to a third of its original quantity. Hebron is famous for its preparation, and even in modern times three hundred camel loads used to be exported thence annually into Egypt. Diluted with water it forms a very grateful drink, and it is also largely eaten with bread, as we eat butter. Nuts.—That is, pistachio nuts, the fruit of the pistachio, vera. As the tree delights in dry, rocky situations, it will not grow in Egypt. It has an oily kernel, both palatable in itself and also much used for making savoury meats. These and the almonds, which also do not grow well in Egypt, would be acceptable gifts.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 43:11

Verse 11. Carry down the man a present] From the very earliest times presents were used as means of introduction to great men. This is particularly noticed by Solomon: A man's gift maketh room for him, and bringeth him before great men, Proverbs 18:16. But what was the present brought to Joseph on this occasion? After all the labour of commentators, we are obliged to be contented with probabilities and conjecture. According to our translation, the gifts were balm, honey, spices, myrrh, nuts, and almonds. Balm] צרי tsori is supposed to signify resin in general, or some kind of gum issuing from trees. Honey] דבש debash has been supposed to be the same as the rob of grapes, called in Egypt dibs. Others think that honey, in the common sense of the term, is to be understood here: we know that honey was plentiful in Palestine. Spices] נכאת nechoth is supposed to mean gum storax, which might be very valuable on account of its qualities as a perfume. Myrrh] לט lot, supposed by some to mean stacte; by others to signify an ointment made of myrrh. Nuts] בטנים botnim, by some rendered pistachio nuts, those produced in Syria being the finest in the world; by others, dates; others, walnuts; others, pine apples; others, the nuts of the terebinth tree. Almonds] שקדים shekedim, correctly enough translated, and perhaps the only article in the collection of which we know any thing with certainty. It is generally allowed that the land of Canaan produces the best almonds in the east; and on this account they might be deemed a very acceptable present to the governor of Egypt. Those who wish to see this subject exhausted must have recourse to the Physica Sacra of Scheuehzer.

Cambridge Bible on Genesis 43:11

11. do this] Jacob yields, but, true to the character of a shrewd man of the world, he advises that the formidable Grand Vizier should be propitiated with a suitable present. choice fruits] The Hebrew word, zimrah, occurs only in this passage in the Pent. (cf. Amos 5:23): LXX καρποί = “fruits”; Lat. optimi fructus. The meaning is probable, though only conjectural. Some think that it may be from the Hebrew root zmr, “to make melody,” cf. mizmτr, “a psalm”: hence Targ. Onkelos, “What is praiseworthy in the land.” It has been suggested that “the melody of the land” would mean “the produce of the land celebrated in song.” Cf. Jeremiah 51:41. vessels] i.e. baggage, receptacles of various kinds, e.g. “sacks” (Genesis 42:25); cf. 1 Samuel 9:7. balm] See Genesis 37:25. honey] Possibly the material known in Syria and Palestine as dibs, which is the Arabian word for “grape juice boiled down to a syrup.” The Hebrew word d’bash, however, means real “honey,” and it is natural to suppose that a gift of real honey from the country would be a more acceptable offering to the Egyptian ruler. Cf. 1 Kings 14:3. spicery and myrrh] See Genesis 37:25. nuts] That is, pistachio nuts. The fruit of the pistacia vera, a rare tree in Palestine, regarded as a delicacy.

Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 43:11

11. Take of the best fruits — Hebrews, take of the song of the land; the products celebrated in song. This suggests the answer to the objection that these fruits should be had in Canaan in such a time of dearth.

Sermons on Genesis 43:11

	Sermon	Description
	The Peaceable Fruit by Watchman Nee	Watchman Nee explores the transformative journey of Jacob, illustrating how God's discipline reshaped him from a self-serving schemer into a loving and mature individual. Through e
	A Little Honey Sweet - Gen. 43:11 by Bernard Fell	Bernard Fell preaches on the story of Joseph and his brothers from Genesis 43:11, highlighting the act of kindness and love shown by the sons of Jacob when they carried down a pres
	(Genesis) Genesis 37:27-28 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers. He explains that the Ishmaelites and the Midianites had joined together, making t
	Broken or Brokenness by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of prayer and intercession. He mentions how young people are leaving their careers to go to the mission field because of the
	Practical Aspects of the Holy Spirit - Promise of a Father by A.W. Tozer	In this sermon, the speaker discusses three periods in the disciples' journey after Jesus' departure. The first period is characterized by Jesus intensifying His teaching and prepa
	Balm in Gilead by J.C. Philpot	J.C. Philpot preaches about the desperate state of God's people, emphasizing the deep wounds of sin and the need for a profound realization of one's sinful nature to fully apprecia
	Make Time to Pray by A.W. Tozer	A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of making time for prayer amidst our busy lives, drawing parallels with the dedication of Jesus and Martin Luther, who prioritized prayer even w