42:1–38 Joseph used the providential famine and his authority to help reconcile the shattered family. By confronting them with life and death (vv. 18, 20) he awakened their consciences to confess their guilt (vv. 21–24) and to protect Benjamin from harm (v. 37; 43:8, 9; 44:18–34). See note on chs. 43–45.