Joseph: The Judge

Summary

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The Chosen People – Episode Summary

Podcast: The Chosen People
Host: Pray.com
Episode: "Joseph: The Judge"
Date: December 21, 2025

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Episode Overview

In "Joseph: The Judge," The Chosen People podcast dives deep into one of the Old Testament's most emotional and pivotal stories: Joseph’s rise from betrayed brother and slave to Egypt’s chief judge during the great famine. Through immersive narration and dramatic reenactments, the episode illustrates the complexity of family, the pain of betrayal, the weight of leadership, and the tension between justice and mercy. Listeners are drawn into Joseph's internal and external struggles as he encounters his brothers—those responsible for his downfall—now desperate for help.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Recap of Joseph’s Early Life and Betrayal

• (00:00–01:56)
  • Flashback to Joseph’s dreams that sparked jealousy among his brothers.
  • Joseph’s brothers attack and sell him into slavery.
  • Emotional portrayal of Joseph’s pain and fear as he is taken to Egypt.
  • Quote:

    “They hated Joseph for his favor and were trapped in a prison of jealousy.”
    —Narrator [01:24]

2. Joseph’s Rise to Power and Egypt’s Famine

• (02:14–03:40)
  • Joseph, through God’s wisdom, predicts seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine.
  • Pharaoh entrusts Joseph with immense authority to manage Egypt’s survival.
  • Quote:

    “You shall be in charge of my palace, my resources, and all my people… All shall praise you. Even the sun and moon shall know your name and bow.”
    —Pharaoh/Narrator [02:44]

3. Famine’s Impact on Canaan and Jacob’s Struggle

• (05:07–10:01)
  • Vivid narration of the famine ravaging Canaan; Jacob’s despair and crisis of faith.
  • A conversation with Danil, a Canaanite neighbor, introduces the news of Egypt’s stored grain and the mysterious Hebrew prophet (Joseph) behind it.
  • Jacob is inspired to seek help in Egypt, showing a spark of hope and resilience.
  • Quote:

    "Is this how it all ends?"
    —Jacob [06:18]

4. Jacob’s Command; The Sons Set Out for Egypt

• (10:01–15:12)
  • Jacob revitalizes his weary sons and instructs them to journey to Egypt for food—except for Benjamin, whom he cannot bear to risk.
  • Brief, touching moment between Judah and the youngest son, Benjamin, highlighting lingering family pain.
  • Quote:

    “You’re not the child father thinks you are. You’re a man. Man enough to take care of things while we’re gone.”
    —Judah to Benjamin [14:18]

5. Joseph’s Compassion as Egypt’s Chief Judge

• (15:37–18:13)
  • Joseph distributes grain to foreigners and Egyptians alike, showing compassion for the suffering.
  • He is moved by the plight of those coming from Canaan, reflecting on the famine's personal significance.
  • Quote:

    “Fill their bags with grain, as much as they can carry.”
    —Joseph [17:00]

6. Reunion: Joseph Confronts His Brothers

• (19:39–26:39)
  • Joseph is shocked and conflicted when he recognizes his brothers among the petitioners for grain.
  • He hides his identity and accuses them of being spies as a test, seeking to see if they have changed.
  • Joseph’s internal struggle with vengeance, pain, and the past is front and center.
  • Quote:

    “What? They want my kindness? They want mercy. I received no such thing from them all those years ago.”
    —Joseph [22:07]

  • He jails them, demanding proof of their honesty by requesting their youngest brother (Benjamin).
  • Quote:

    "Send them to the pits for three days. We shall see if they feel any more motivated to tell me the truth."
    —Joseph [26:30]

7. Joseph’s Emotional Breakdown and Conditional Mercy

• (26:39–31:47)
  • The brothers are imprisoned, mirroring Joseph’s own former suffering.
  • They express guilt and regret for betraying Joseph; Joseph, secretly understanding, is overcome with emotion.
  • Quote:

    “He wept. His heart ached with a sadness too deep for words… It sounded as if God himself was weeping in that prison cell with him.”
    —Narrator [29:51]

  • Joseph ultimately chooses mercy—sending nine brothers home with grain, detaining Simeon as collateral until Benjamin is brought to Egypt.
  • He secretly returns each brother’s payment, furthering their confusion and guilt.

8. The Brothers’ Return and Jacob’s Anguish

• (31:47–38:09)
  • The brothers discover the silver coins given back to them—reminders of their betrayal.
  • Judah and Reuben earnestly attempt to convince Jacob to let Benjamin go with them, but Jacob’s heart is hardened by loss and mistrust.
  • Quote:

    “Allow me to take Benjamin. If I do not bring him back to you, kill my two sons.”
    —Reuben [37:04]

  • Jacob, tormented by grief, refuses, saying:

    “In other words, Reuben, I don’t trust you, not after what happened to Joseph.”
    —Jacob [37:43]

  • Family dynamics of shame, old wounds, and yearning for redemption are further exposed.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

| Timestamp | Quote & Context | Speaker | |------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|--------------------| | 01:24 | “They hated Joseph for his favor and were trapped in a prison of jealousy.” | Narrator | | 02:44 | “You shall be in charge of my palace…” (Pharaoh bestowing authority on Joseph) | Pharaoh/Narrator | | 06:18 | "Is this how it all ends?” (Jacob’s despair facing famine’s devastation) | Jacob | | 14:18 | “You’re not the child father thinks you are…” (Judah reassuring Benjamin) | Judah | | 17:00 | “Fill their bags with grain, as much as they can carry.” (Joseph’s compassion in authority) | Joseph | | 22:07 | “What? They want my kindness? They want mercy. I received no such thing from them…” (Joseph’s conflict) | Joseph | | 26:30 | “Send them to the pits for three days…” (Joseph’s test of his brothers) | Joseph | | 29:51 | “He wept. His heart ached with a sadness too deep for words…It sounded as if God himself was weeping in that prison cell with him.” | Narrator | | 37:04 | “Allow me to take Benjamin. If I do not bring him back to you, kill my two sons.” (Reuben’s desperate plea to regain trust) | Reuben | | 37:43 | “In other words, Reuben, I don’t trust you, not after what happened to Joseph.” (Jacob’s heartbreak and inability to forgive fully) | Jacob |

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Important Segment Timestamps

• 00:00–01:56 – Recap of Joseph’s betrayal
• 02:14–03:40 – Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dreams; becomes ruler
• 05:07–10:01 – Famine devastates Canaan; Jacob’s resolve
• 10:01–15:12 – Sons prepare for Egypt; Benjamin’s protection
• 15:37–18:13 – Joseph distributes grain as Egyptian official
• 19:39–26:39 – Joseph meets his brothers; confrontation and imprisonment
• 26:39–31:47 – Joseph’s emotional turmoil; brothers’ remorse; Simeon’s detention
• 31:47–38:09 – Brothers return home; coins returned; Jacob’s grief and refusal

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Tone and Atmosphere

• Dramatic and Lyrical: The narration paints vivid emotional and physical landscapes, echoing Old Testament gravitas.
• Reflective and Emotional: Characters grapple openly with guilt, betrayal, and the longing for forgiveness.
• Intimate: Dialogues between brothers, father and sons, and Joseph’s internal monologue invite the listener into their vulnerability and turmoil.
• Faithful: Frequent contemplation of God’s mysterious ways and the ongoing struggle to reconcile divine providence with human failings.

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Summary

"Joseph: The Judge" immerses listeners in the heartache and high drama of Joseph’s story. It emphasizes how past betrayals haunt the present and how choices made in suffering offer a path toward redemption. The trauma and conflict within Jacob’s family are recounted with empathy and realism, highlighting timeless themes of trust, justice, forgiveness, and faith in the unseen hand of God. This episode is a thoughtfully produced, emotionally resonant retelling of a crucial biblical episode.

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Transcript

[Narrator/Host]

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[Narrator/Actor]

They hated Joseph for his favor and were trapped in a prison of jealousy. Sensing the danger, Joseph stepped back. But the brothers had surrounded him.

[Narrator/Host]

Where are you running off to, baby brother? Are you afraid?

[Narrator/Actor]

Tears streamed down Joseph's face. He couldn't speak. He could barely breathe. Judah threw him against the rocks.

[Narrator/Host]

Tell me, Joseph, in all your dreaming, did you ever imagine this?

[Narrator/Actor]

Joseph's cries for help were choked by the tightrope. Tears filled his eyes, his heart heavy with betrayal. The sun set, the stars taking its place as Joseph was taken towards Egypt. A slave's fate awaiting him.

[Narrator/Host]

Egypt was will experience a time of flourishing like never before. The land will give birth to new life and your people will be fed. However, this prosperity will come to an end. The seven sickly cows and the seven scorched heads of grain, they represent seven years of devastation. After seven years of plenty, seven years of famine will strike the land like a wildfire.

[Narrator/Actor]

This is the warning God has given to you.

[Narrator/Host]

With this knowledge comes a great deal of responsibility. It will come to pass. And if Egypt is not ready, the entire world will perish. Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one else I would desire for the position. You shall be in charge of my palace, my resources, and all my people. There shall be tools in your hands, guided by your God, so that our great nation will survive. Only with respect to the throne will I be greater than you. I hereby declare that you are to rule my kingdom with complete authority. All shall praise you. Even the sun and moon shall know your name and bow. So you're telling me that the AI.

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There the last one.

[Narrator/Host]

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[Narrator/Actor]

The harsh wind blew in from the east, a desolate breath from the heart of the wastelands, carrying with it the seeds of ruin. Crops withered under its relentless assault, leaving the land of Canaan barren and its people hungry. The sons of Jacob toiled in the fields, their efforts as futile as trying to hold back the sea with a sieve. The wind cut at their faces and stripped their throats dry, a cruel reminder of the famine that had taken hold. Jacob sat on a weathered stump, his knuckles white as he gripped his staff. Age had turned his skin to leather and his bones to brittle twigs. He surveyed the lifeless fields with eyes that had seen too much suffering and not enough joy. His heart was a stone in his chest, heavy with the knowledge that his time was running out and his sons lives might follow if something didn't change soon. The sky above was a cruel, unbroken expanse of blue, mocking his pleas for rain.

[Narrator/Host]

Is. Is this how it all ends?

[Narrator/Actor]

The horizon offered no answers, only the heat rising in shimmering waves. Jacob's prayer for deliverance was swallowed by the empty sky, his faith tested by the gnawing hunger that clouded his mind. He strained to hear God over the incessant rumbling of his stomach. Before he could gain food, a voice cried out from the road.

[Narrator/Host]

Ho there Jacob.

[Narrator/Actor]

Jacob turned to see Danil, a Canaanite goat herder, striding towards him. Danil was a broad shouldered man, his skin Darkened by the sun, with two sons trailing behind him, towing a large cart. Like oxen, the herder carried a large pack, its weight bending his back slightly, Jacob offered him a drink from his wineskin, and he obliged with a grunt and nod. Dan' el sat down heavily beside him, eyes fixed on the dead fields.

[Narrator/Host]

There are no crops for miles, Jacob. All the surrounding villages are losing children and the elderly. Ah, it's a mess. My God always provides. Yes, yes. You and your God are fortunate to have each other. As the land turns to dust. I have a new God. He's in Egypt, and he gave me mountains of grain to bring home. Egypt? Has the famine not reached them? How could that be? Oh, the famine reached them all right. Their fields are as dead as ours. Not a barley sprout for miles. It hit their livestock too, but still they eat. They have a prophet there who foresaw the coming famine and stored enough grain to feed the entire world, if he so pleased. This prophet has allowed you, a foreigner, to have some of Egypt's grain? I was as surprised as you are. But this prophet is letting everyone come. He's filling bellies across the world. That's why I have made him my new God. It's him I'll be praying to at night, you can be sure of that. As long as my belly is full, I'll be blessing him. What's this prophet's name? Some royal Egyptian name given by Pharaoh himself, apparently. They call him. How you pronounce it? Zaphnef Panaya. That's it. What do you receive? A Hebrew. My family has a mixed relationship with Egypt. I think he'd receive just about anyone. I know you think your God will save you from the famine, Jacob, but I would consider looking to Egypt for help. Maybe your God has wandered into those parts and made a home there. You said so yourself, he works in mysterious ways. All right, that's enough rambling from this old man. I'll be on my way now. Take care of yourself, Jacob. You as well, friend.

[Narrator/Actor]

Daniel. Carted off with his sons, Jacob remained still for a moment. A tinge of hope caught coursed through his old veins. A smile twitched at the corners of his lips. His eyes peered upward, and he allowed a full grin to widen on his leathery face.

[Narrator/Host]

What are you up to?

[Narrator/Actor]

He stood to his feet and made his way back to the tents. His sons were there, mending their tools and lounging in the shade. Jacob hobbled towards them with his staff. With a fervor that surprised even himself. He lifted his staff and Whacked Issachar upside the head.

[Narrator/Host]

Now get up, you. You lazy sons. You're all staring at each other as if grain's going to start pouring out one of your ears.

[Narrator/Actor]

The men, none of them any longer resembling boys, stood to their feet. They had not seen their father with this much vigor in a long time.

[Narrator/Host]

Father, we've worked the land. It's given us nothing. What else are we supposed to do? Well, dear Simeon, you can continue to fester in your seat, or you can make yourself useful and go to Egypt.

[Narrator/Actor]

The men perked up, anxious about what Jacob knew about Egypt. Anytime the nation was mentioned, a tinge of remorse jabbed at them.

[Narrator/Host]

What's in. What's in Egypt? Grain. Enough grain to feed the world. And they're selling it at a fair price. The road to Egypt is risky, especially with the famine. Bandits have multiplied out of desperation. Cowardice. Listen to me. You can either go to Egypt and live, or remain here and die.

[Narrator/Actor]

The men paused, confused. More so that Jacob was so lively. He hadn't been like this since Joseph's passing.

[Narrator/Host]

Worthless sons, get out and go. Go before your old father turns to dust. I'll rally all the brothers. We'll leave it. Don Simeon, go retrieve Reuben and Zebulon. Levi, send word to Gad and Asher. Dan, Benjamin and I will saddle the donkeys before the sun sets. No. Absolutely not. Benjamin will not be joining you. Father. He's a strong boy. Nearly a man. He'll be fine with us. Don't you dare try and convince me to save our youngest boy with you. Benjamin stays. Hugo, I can't risk losing another piece of my heart.

[Narrator/Actor]

The words weighed heavily on Judah. Jacob had never forgiven them for letting Joseph perish in the wilderness. If only he knew the real truth.

[Narrator/Host]

As you wish. You all heard Father. Let's move.

[Narrator/Actor]

Before the dawn could emerge from its hiding, the 10 older sons of Jacob departed. Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Gad, Asher, Dan, and Naphtali. As the cool gravel crunched beneath their feet, they heard a shout from behind.

[Narrator/Host]

Judah, wait for me.

[Narrator/Actor]

His ruddy teenaged brother, Benjamin, was running after them, pack secured to his side. Judah turned, a warm smile spreading across his face.

[Narrator/Host]

I wish you could join us, Benji, But Father forbade it. He never lets me go anywhere with the others. You're precious to him. To all of us. Egypt is a hostile place, especially to us Hebrews. I'm not the child Father thinks I am.

[Narrator/Actor]

Judah paused and looked down at Benjamin. The boy was lanky, with broad shoulders and amber curls Bouncing off his forehead. He was a mirror image of Joseph at that age. Seeing his earnest gaze pierced Judah's heart. He brought his baby brother in close and kissed his head.

[Narrator/Host]

Ah. Come here. Take care of the flocks and watch over my sons. You're not the child father thinks you are. You're a man. Man enough to take care of things while we're gone. You'll tell me stories of Egypt, won't you? Tell me about the Nile and the great towers. I can't wait. Now run back to father before the sun rises. Be careful near the river, too. It's easy to stumble when it's dark.

[Narrator/Actor]

Judah watched Benjamin drag his feet for the first few steps, dust turning up with his disappointment. His trudge soon turned to a skip and run. As he made his way back home, Judah's eyes glistened with brotherly affection. Benjamin had taken Joseph's place as Jacob's favored son, but he didn't catch the same Ireland. Judah's jealousy had quelled with time. Life had humbled him, beaten him into submission.

[Narrator/Host]

You've grown softer in your old age, Judah. And you've grown uglier and fatter. Let's go before the sun punishes us with its heat. To Egypt. Salvation awaits. Yes. Salvation. Please step forward.

[Narrator/Actor]

Joseph stood at the entrance of the storehouses, the massive clay and stone structures towering behind him like silent sentinels. The carvings on their surfaces told the tale of Zafanath Paneer's rise to power, a story of foresight and wisdom that had saved Egypt from the grip of famine. The line of people stretched far, a river of humanity seeking sustenance. Joseph's heart ached. With a blend of duty and compassion, A woman and her daughter stepped before the slave turned governor, their faces weary from travel.

[Narrator/Host]

Where have you come from? Timna, just outside the plains of Canaan. I'm very familiar with Timna. You've traveled far. You must be very tired. Yes, my lord. But the journey will be worth it for some Food. Everywhere around us has been destroyed by the famine. Has Canaan been struck as well? Yes, my lord. No village or farm was spared. I see.

[Narrator/Actor]

Joseph hid his reaction, but the news struck him like a blow. He looked down at the little girl besides and offered her a piece of sweet bread. She took it hesitantly, then devoured it with a hunger that brought tears to Joseph's eyes. He gestured to his attendants.

[Narrator/Host]

Fill their bags with grain, as much as they can carry.

[Narrator/Actor]

Thank you, Zaphanath.

[Narrator/Host]

Panea. Tales have been told of your kindness. I'm pleased that the stories have proven true.

[Narrator/Actor]

The little girl waved, and the two of them were on their way. Joseph watched them depart, a storm of emotions brewing within him. As the sun climbed higher, more people came, each with their own stories of hardship and need. Joseph greeted them all, his heart heavy with the weight of his role. All people from far off had traveled to Egypt in order to buy grain. There was plenty to spare, for God had made Egypt in the incredibly fruitful. During the time before the famine, Joseph had planned well, and now they were enjoying the fruits of their labor. Egypt truly was a palace of plenty, and Joseph was its king. He ruled with a gentleness, tact, and wisdom that made him the most beloved man in the world. He believed God had placed him there, in Egypt, for this very reason. So let me get this straight. Your company has data here, there, and.

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[Narrator/Actor]

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[Narrator/Host]

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[Narrator/Actor]

Then he saw them. Ten tall figures stood in line. They wore garments of sheep's wool over their waists and sashes of thin fabric across their shoulders. Each of them had a specific trait about them that signified they were brothers. Recognition sparked a fire in Joseph's veins. These were his brothers, the sons of Israel who had betrayed him so long ago. Joseph's blood ran cold and his grip on his scepter tightened. His brow turned downward, and the blood rushed to his legs. Joseph felt like fleeing, escaping for his life.

[Narrator/Host]

Life.

[Narrator/Actor]

It was an absurd feeling. He was the second most powerful man in Egypt, surrounded by guards and doting citizens. Yet he felt in danger. Surely they wouldn't recognize Joseph. He had grown larger and stronger, was shaved and dressed as an Egyptian adorned with a royal headdress and amulet. But still Joseph's body tensed with panic. The 10 brothers stepped forward in line with empty sacks in their hands. Joseph looked at their faces. Reuben, in particular had aged considerably. His once broad and muscular frame had diminished with time. He looked like his father. Even the younger brothers, Issachar and Zebulun, were weathered by age and labor. Joseph peered at them silently as they approached. With each step they took forward, Joseph could feel his heart beating faster. His mind raced with a flurry of different emotions. Hatred, contempt, agony, and fear all rushed through him like battering waves against the shore. Then Joseph saw Judah, taller than the rest, chest turned upward, wearing a wooing smile. Joseph steeled his resolve, refusing to be fooled by anything that came from that snake's mouth. Judah stood at the front with his head held low and arms outstretched.

[Narrator/Host]

Lord Zapinath Panea. We come seeking kindness.

[Narrator/Actor]

Joseph's heart hammered in his chest. Here they were, bowing to him as he had once dreamed, though the vision now seems seemed a cruel irony. He stared at their dusty faces, their expressions pleading.

[Narrator/Host]

What? They want my kindness? They want mercy. I received no such thing from them all those years ago. They are to starve for what they did.

[Narrator/Actor]

A torrent of negative thoughts rushed into his mind. His vision turned blurry with rage. His tormentors bowed before him in expected mercy. Their eyes lifted to see Joseph's face. However, they didn't recognize him. His face had not changed much since he was 17. However, the last thing they expected was Joseph to be made a king when they sold him into slavery. Joseph was adorned with the markings of power and royalty. The last time they had seen him, he was bound and tied to the back of an Ishmaelite camel. Joseph scoffed audibly.

[Narrator/Host]

Where do you come from?

[Narrator/Actor]

From.

[Narrator/Host]

From the land of Canaan, my king. We have come to buy food. Our crops have been ravaged by the famine and we're out of options. We beg you for mercy. Please allow us to buy food for our families. Spies.

[Narrator/Actor]

He slammed his staff on the ground, watching them flinch. A twisted satisfaction rose within him. He remembered how they once beat him to near death and left him in a pit. He still bore scars from that day on his side.

[Narrator/Host]

You have come to see if this land is open for attack. We've had threats come in from the land of Canaan. You must be spies. Zaphneth Penea. We assure you that our intentions are pure. We are all sons of a man named Jacob. His land is in Canaan. We are humble herders and Farmers. We have no ill will towards you or Egypt. We are honest men who tell the truth. Always come with upright hearts before you.

[Narrator/Actor]

Simeon's answer made Joseph's blood boil.

[Narrator/Host]

Honest men, the men who sold their own brother into slavery, have the gall to stand before me and claim they have pure hearts?

[Narrator/Actor]

Joseph seethed with anger, and it showed. The brothers could sense his wrath rising and feared what he may do to them. Joseph could sense their fear. He reveled in it. Not a day had gone by when he didn't think about his brothers. He remembered their scowls and their spite. He remembered their backs turning as he was carted off like an animal.

[Narrator/Host]

We will see if they are honest men. I will make them prove they have changed.

[Narrator/Actor]

Joseph composed himself.

[Narrator/Host]

I am convinced you've come to spy on our land. The famine has hit Egypt with the same blow as Canaan. However, we were prepared. Have you come to spy on our storehouses so you might take them for yourself? Why else would you bring so many of you? We are. We are a large family, my lord. We, your servants, are all sons of one man and several women. In fact, there are more brothers than us. Our youngest brother is in Canaan with our father, and our other brother perished long ago by wolves.

[Narrator/Actor]

Wolves.

[Narrator/Host]

Is that the lie they told? Father?

[Narrator/Actor]

Joseph scanned his brothers up and down. He observed their faces. Had they truly changed their ways? How far would they be willing to go to prove their honesty? Joseph placed his hands behind his back and paced back and forth. He looked to the horizon, the same horizon he had gazed at many sunsets. He longed to see his father again. He longed to meet his younger brother. Joseph turned to the brothers.

[Narrator/Host]

My judgment delivered this land from famine, and my judgment tells me you are spies. Prove to me I'm wrong. You will be bound and imprisoned in this place while one of you leaves to retrieve the youngest brother. If he is real, then I shall know you do not lie.

[Narrator/Actor]

Joseph stopped and leaned down at Judah. He looked at him in the eyes intently. Judah had once looked Joseph in the eyes and tossed him into a pit. Now Joseph was going to return the.

[Narrator/Host]

Favor, send them to the pits for three days. We shall see if they feel any more motivated to tell me the truth.

[Narrator/Actor]

The guards seized the brothers and threw them into the palace prison. It was the same prison Joseph was once held in. Alone. They sat in there, cold and afraid, just as he once did. Joseph stood outside the prison, pacing with fury. His heart was being tossed to and fro like a ship in a storm. His hands shook and his stomach churned Joseph was starting to lose his resolve. For three days, Joseph sat outside the prison gates. His mind was blurred by flashes from his past. On the second night, he sat outside the cell and stared up at the moon. He remembered the comforting rays of light that peeked in through the dungeon window. He closed his eyes, trying to remember the pain of prison, slavery and betrayal. A cold breeze blew in and knocked his headdress off and into the dirt beside a well. Joseph picked it up and stared into the water. He looked into his reflection, seeing a man he did not recognize. He didn't see Zaphanath Paneh, the man commissioned by Pharaoh. He saw Joseph, the man saved by God. He sighed and looked to the heavens. The cool breeze caressed his face. Joseph smiled, remembering the blessings God had adorned him with since being sold into slavery. For a brief moment, Joseph forgot his bitterness. The next morning, Joseph entered into the prison cell with his guards. The brothers all stood to their feet, sore from days of sleeping on stone. Joseph walked in with a stoic expression. Do you deserve to live? The ten of them nodded their heads immediately.

[Narrator/Host]

Very well. As surprising as it may seem to you, I fear the God of your people. I will grant you all a kindness you do not deserve. One of you will remain in custody while the other nine leave to carry back grain to your families. Once your households are secure, you shall return here with your youngest brother. Then I will know you are honest men.

[Narrator/Actor]

The brothers nodded, whispering in their language. They consoled each other and commiserated over their past sins. You know why this is happening to us, right?

[Narrator/Host]

And we damned Joseph to a slavery in Egypt. And now we are doomed to the same fate. This is punishment for our guilt.

[Narrator/Actor]

You remember how Joseph begged us for mercy?

[Narrator/Host]

I can still hear his screams for help.

[Narrator/Actor]

Help. In my mind, we only watched as he was taken.

[Narrator/Host]

I told you only to leave the boy alone.

[Narrator/Actor]

Reuben was a quiet and strong man. However, this time his voice boomed, nearly shaking the entire prison.

[Narrator/Host]

I told you to leave him alone, but you didn't listen. You sold him when my back was turned. Now look at us. God has sent a race reckoning for his blood. And we deserve it.

[Narrator/Actor]

They didn't know Joseph could understand him. Slowly, he backed out the door and out of view. He ran down the halls and into an empty cell. He fell to his knees and removed his headdress, banging his fists against the cold, wet stone. Joseph wept. His heart ached with a sadness too deep for words. He had not known Reuben tried to save him. He had not known they regretted selling him into slavery. All of this was too much for his heart to bear. For a few moments, Joseph was undone with emotional turmoil. His sobs bounced off the chamber walls, reverberating back at him. It sounded as if God himself was weeping in that prison cell with him. Joseph composed himself and wiped away the tears from his eyes. He took a deep breath, put his headdress back on, and marched towards his brothers. As Zaphanath Panea. Joseph raised his right hand and pointed to Simeon.

[Narrator/Host]

You will remain here until your brothers return.

[Narrator/Actor]

He watched the brothers embrace Simeon before being escorted out of the prison. Joseph turned, shut the door. It echoed across the across the halls. Simeon was left in darkness. Net was waiting for him outside.

[Narrator/Host]

Net, see to it that every man's bag is filled to the brim with grain. Also, be sure to return the sacks of money in each of their bags. Give them provisions for the journey home as well.

[Narrator/Actor]

Net nodded and saw to it that every bag was full and every coin was returned to the men. The brothers were sent away without a goodbye from the governor. They departed with their donkeys, carrying several loads of grain. All of the brothers, all but Simeon, walked away from Egypt with their heads held low.

[Narrator/Host]

We have the grain, but at what cost? We'll explain to Father what happened. Surely he'll let us take Benjamin back to Egypt.

[Narrator/Actor]

I wouldn't be so sure. Behind them, overlooking the land in the distance, stood Joseph. His eyes were fixed on the nine men as they walked away. He stood high on the hills, overlooking the entire kingdom. The sun's golden rays turned into a deep red as it slid across the horizon. The burnt hues turned darker as the sun descended. Joseph closed his eyes, sighed, and returned to his family. He embraced them, reminding himself that they were his family now. The brothers reached a small lodging area in between Egypt and Canaan. Their throats were parched from a long day's journey.

[Narrator/Host]

We rest tonight, then leave first thing in the morning.

[Narrator/Actor]

As Judah took some supplies off the donkey, a sack of money fell out of the bag of grain.

[Narrator/Host]

What's this?

[Narrator/Actor]

The same sack of coins he used to buy the grain had been tucked away securely with the rest of his belongings.

[Narrator/Host]

Levi, check your bag.

[Narrator/Actor]

All.

[Narrator/Host]

All of you, check your bags.

[Narrator/Actor]

The brothers checked their belongings and their bags of grain. To their utter surprise, each sack of money had been returned to them. Judah looked down at the sack of money. 20 shekels of silver. The same amount they had gained when they sold Joseph. He threw his sack on the ground and fell to his knees. Judah clasped his hair and wept on the floor. The past was beginning to creep up on him. Shadows and flashes of his sins began to flood back into his memory. Judah and the rest of his brothers were coming face to face with their own own depravity. Jacob sat beside the well overlooking the charred landscape of Canaan. His bones ached and his heart was weary from weeks of worry. He prayed to God his sons would all return. He could not bear the loss of another. He looked behind him. Benjamin was digging up roots to be boiled. Jacob smiled. Benjamin was now around the same age Joseph was when he was killed. Not a day went by when he did not think about Joseph, his beloved son. Jacob looked away. Back at the horizon, nine small figures came into view. The brothers had returned. Jacob stood and met them on the road. At first, he revelled in the fact that there were large sacks of grain carried by the donkeys. However, Jacob saw that one of his sons was missing.

[Narrator/Host]

Where is Simeon? What has happened? We met the ruler of Egypt. He was a harsh man. He accused us of being Canaanite spies. We told him that we were humble and honest men. We told him we are 12 brothers total. One being dead and the other back home with our father. Blast. What did you say to him to make him hate you so much? Judah didn't do anything wrong. This man was intent on hating us before we even spoke. So he killed Simeon? No. He's in prison until we can prove we aren't lying. What proof will sway this man?

[Narrator/Actor]

The brothers paused and looked at each other. Finally, Jim Judah stepped forward.

[Narrator/Host]

He requires Benjamin. If we can show him Benjamin, he'll know we aren't lying. Ha. No. You will not take my son to be imprisoned by this madman. How do you know he won't just kill you all? He gave us back our money, that's how. Everything we paid, he gave back to us in our sacks. Along with an extra portion of grain. This man is harsh, but I feel he means what he says. His intentions were definitely not to harm us. Or else he wouldn't have given us our money back. I mean. However, he didn't seem overly interested in our family. You have bereaved me of my children. First Joseph dies under your watch. Now Simeon rots in an Egyptian prison. Now you desire to take my youngest son. You will not.

[Narrator/Actor]

Jacob took Benjamin by the arm and began to storm away. Reuben stood there silently. His body began to quiver and his fists clenched. A single tear streamed down his face as he watched his father leave. He was the oldest and fell responsible for all of the misfortunes of his father.

[Narrator/Host]

Put your trust in me, Father.

[Narrator/Actor]

Jacob stopped and turned his head. Reuben was a quiet man who rarely raised his voice. However, a great deal of passion welled up within him.

[Narrator/Host]

Allow me to take Benjamin. If I do not bring him back to you, kill my two sons.

[Narrator/Actor]

Please.

[Narrator/Host]

I must redeem myself. Put Benjamin in my hands and I will bring him and Simeon back to you. Your word means very little to me, Reuben. Do not think I've forgotten the sins that lay between us.

[Narrator/Actor]

Jacob looked deeply into his eldest son's eyes. Reuben had betrayed his father once before, defiling the sacredness of Jacob's marriage bed. A chasm lay between them, a gap of hurt, fury, and mistrust.

[Narrator/Host]

My son shall not go down with you. His brother is dead and he is the only one I have left. If harm should happen to him on the journey you are about to make, you would bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to Sheol. In other words, Reuben, I don't trust you, not after what happened to Joseph.

[Narrator/Actor]

Without another word or glance, Jacob retreated back to his tent. The family of Jacob would live to see another few months. However, the culture of jealousy, backbiting and betrayal in their family was beginning to catch up to them. They were in need of redemption. This prey.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Catena, Max Bard, Zach Shellevaga and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Caltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Steven Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Robert, Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosalie and Chris Baig. You can hear more Pray.com productions on the Pray.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the chosen people, please rate and leave a review.

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[Narrator/Actor]

All.

[Narrator/Host]

This is that classic HBCU vibe. Non stop back. The band is rocking and the crowd lit chance echoing drum beat Everybody showing that school pride game like this. Yeah, it calls for an ice cold Coca Cola. Ah, crisp and refreshing. That's a game changer right there. Yeah, that taste always hits the right note. Just like the band at halftime. And just like that, we're back at it. Ashley fans, school colors everywhere and in ice cold Coca Cola. That's a winning combo no matter the sport, no matter the yard. Everybody knows fan work is thirsty work. So grab a Coca Cola and keep that HBCU pride going. Janice Torres here and I'm Austin Hankwitz. We host the podcast Mind the Business Small Business Success Stories produced by Ruby Studio in partnership with Intuit QuickBooks. We're back for season four to talk to some incredible small business owners. The big thing about working at tech is that it's ever evolving, ever changing. Everyone's a rookie. That's how fast the industry is changing. So what I'm really excited about is to be part of that change. So listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.

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