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Judah
Send Benjamin with me. Father, we can't afford to wait any longer without grain.
Jacob
You expect me to trust you? 27 years ago, I sent my son to you. Go to your brothers, I said to him. I sent him into your hands, and you bring me back a tattered coat covered in blood.
Joseph
You, young Benjamin, will be my slave. The rest of your brothers can walk away with grain in their freedom, but you, you will rot in the pit until I pluck you out and have you labor in my fields until the day you die.
Jacob
Take me instead.
Narrator
Joseph's heart stopped beating when he heard the words fall from Judah's lips.
Joseph
What did you say?
Judah
Have me remain as a slave on Benjamin's behalf. Let me suffer so he can live.
Narrator
Judah's sacrifice pierced through Joseph's hardened heart.
Joseph
Look at me, brother.
Narrator
Judah's eyes, filled with pain and confusion, searched Joseph's face. The realization dawned slowly, like the breaking of a new day.
Judah
Who are you?
Joseph
You know who I am, Joseph.
Judah
No.
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No.
Joseph
Look at me, Judah. Look at me. Look at everything you see around you. Egypt is safe from famine because of what God has done. Do not hold your heads low in shame because you sold me here. God sent me here to preserve life. He knew that one day a famine would endanger the land, and one of us would have to prepare the way to deliverance.
Narrator
He sent them off with 10 donkeys loaded with grain, bread, and provisions for his father on their journey. Joseph waved them away and began to prepare a place for his family to return.
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Podcast Host
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Narrator
Jacob's weary eyes gazed into the fire. The embers and smoke rose into the night sky painted with stars. The he warmed his hands and allowed his mind to wander. His sons, wives and children were all near the fire as well, all of them waiting for the return of the brothers. Do you think they're safe, Jacob?
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They've been gone for over a week.
Jacob
I do not know, child, but I fear the worst if they don't return soon. I'm not sure how much longer my.
Narrator
Soul Jacob regretted sending his sons back, but he had no choice. They needed grain. He looked at his grandchildren sitting quietly in their mother's arms he was concerned for them as well. The famine had struck them hard and he feared that no amount of grain would be able to sustain them for longer than a few months. Levi's youngest son, Kohatha, approached Jacob and sat in his lap. Jacob held him close.
Jacob
Will these be our last days? How many more nights do we have left before we starve?
Narrator
Jacob closed his eyes and felt the warm embrace of his grandson. He knew his time on earth was drawing to a close. Before Jacob dismissed himself for bed, he could hear the chuckles of his sons in the distance. His grandsons helped him up and he walked over to the small hill near their tents. In the distance, he could see torchlights. He counted them. 11. Jacob raised his hands in joy and went out to meet his sons.
Jacob
My boy. Where is my boy?
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Here I am, Father.
Jacob
Not you, fool. Where is Benjamin?
Narrator
Benjamin. Simeon ran in front of the others and met his father in the middle. The two of them hugged and Jacob sobbed in his youngest son's arms. He looked up to see Simeon walking next to Judah. He cried out again.
Jacob
Oh, Simeon, they have brought you back.
Narrator
He embraced Simeon and all the men dropped their things to surround their father. Jacob saw that they had brought back more donkeys and carts than when they left.
Jacob
Why have you come with more donkeys and empty carts?
Narrator
My dear father, the Lord has brought.
Joseph
Us deliverance from the famine.
Jacob
Yes, we have enough grain to last us through the year. Well done.
Narrator
No, not the grain. Come, let us retreat to the fire. We have much to discuss. The brothers escorted their father back to camp and greeted their families. Children ran into the arms of their fathers. Jacob's heart was full seeing his entire lineage stand before him by the fire. They sat by the flames and enjoyed a meal together. There was laughter and praise over the abundance they brought back from Egypt.
Jacob
Are these extra supplies the deliverance you.
Judah
Spoke of, Father, I'm struggling to find the words.
Jacob
What is it?
Judah
Your son Joseph is alive.
Narrator
Jacob's brow creased in anger and the right side of his lip raised in a snarl. With cold, unyielding eyes, Jacob rebuked his son.
Jacob
Do not speak to me of Joseph. Do not chide me about your dead brother. I have grieved enough.
Narrator
It's true, Father. I got to meet him in Egypt.
Jacob
Joseph has been in Egypt this whole time?
Narrator
Not only that, he's the ruler there. He's Zafetnath, Paniya.
Judah
Enough, Benjy. Look, you're only confusing Father Moore. Father, we have to tell you the truth. The truth about what happened to Joseph.
Jacob
All those years Ago, my son Joseph was devoured by wolves. I. I saw the coats.
Judah
No, Father. It was a lie.
Narrator
The brothers began to tell Jacob about what they had done. They recounted that day when Joseph came to find them. They told him about the pit, the Ishmaelites and the silver. Then they began to describe what had happened to Joseph while he was in Egypt. They explained how he was a slave turned steward, then a steward turned prisoner, then a prisoner turned ruler. It was much for Jacob to take in. He sat in silence as his sons lamented their sins. They groveled before him, begging for his forgiveness.
Judah
Father, we understand if you wanted to cast us out. But please hear.
Jacob
I have heard your words, my sons. That is enough.
Narrator
Jacob rubbed his hip as he often did when he was in deep thought and prayer. His brow was furrowed in contemplation. He winced in pain as he helped himself up with his staff. He limped away from the fire, dragging a few feet forward before stopping and looking up to the sky. The vast expanse above made Jacob seem utterly small. Judah wondered if he was going to blow away with the wind.
Judah
Is this finally going to be what kills him? Can he withstand this grief and betrayal? Father, are you laughing?
Narrator
As quickly as the winds shifted on the plains, Jacob spun around with a beaming smile that broke through through the night. His feet tapped in the dust as he pranced around the fire, laughing and singing.
Jacob
My son is alive. My son is alive.
Judah
But did you hear what we told you? We lied to you.
Jacob
I'm too old to care about that. Quick, quick. Back these carts. Let's move. We have to reach Egypt before I die. You and I both know that could be any minute. I mean, look at me.
Narrator
Despite Jacob's words, he looked 20 years younger. Joy had revitalized him. Tears fell like rain from his aged and cracked face.
Jacob
Joseph, my son. I knew. I knew. I knew you were dead. Greatness. I knew it the day you were born.
Narrator
The family of Israel departed from the land that was promised to them long ago. The land discovered by Abraham, cultivated by Isaac, and lived in by Jacob was left behind for a new chapter in God's story. The chosen people of God traversed the long path between Cain, Canaan and Egypt in search of redemption. The one who rose out of prison and onto the throne had called them to dwell with him in prosperity. So they obeyed and ventured forth. It took weeks for Jacob to travel such a distance. Before leaving the borders of Canaan, Jacob stopped in Beersheba to make a sacrifice. The rest of the family waited as Jacob limped his way up a hill to the well he had dug many years ago. It was on this hill where God showed him a vision of a ladder to heaven. For his entire life, Jacob had moved and responded to different situations. Rarely did he pause to deeply consider, pray, and meditate on God's will. Yet here, on the border of the land promised to his people, he paused.
Jacob
Is it wrong for me to leave the land promised to me and my forefathers? Am I making a mistake?
Narrator
Jacob closed his eyes, remembering what God had spoken to him as a young man. The wind whistled up the hill, gently caressing Jacob's face. In the wind he could hear a subtle whisper, a still and quiet voice speaking straight to his soul. Jacob, Jacob, here I am.
Judah
Do not fear the unknown.
Narrator
I am your God and the God of your Father.
Judah
Do not fear going down to Egypt.
Narrator
For there I will make you a great nation. I will go before you and I will also bring you back up again.
Judah
When the time comes.
Narrator
And when it is time for you to depart from this world, it will be Joseph who closes your eyes. Jacob smiled at God like one does an old friend. Together they sat at the well for a while, getting one last look at Canaan.
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Podcast Host
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Narrator
Jacob hobbled down the hill. Midway down, he stopped his steps and looked down at his family. Reuben and his sons Hanuk, Pallu, Hezron and Kami were stitching up the donkeys. Simeon was with his sons Jemuel, Jamin, Ohad, Yachin, Zohar, and Shaw, patching up holes in the bags. Levi and his sons Gershon, Kohath, and Merari were lounging under the shade of a large stone. Then Jacob looked at Judah and his son Perez and Zira. Zira had two children of his own now, Hezron and Hamil. They were all together. Despite the dysfunction that wrought their family, they had grown to love one another deeply. Issachar and his sons Tola, Puva, Yob, and Shimron were playing by a small creek beside the rocks. Zebulun and his sons Sered, Elon, and Jarlil were nearby as well. Gad was present with his sons Ziphion, Haggai, Shunni, Esben, Uri, Arodi, and Arielai. They were playing with the sons of Asher, Imna, Ishvar, Ishvi, Bereah, and a daughter named Sarah. Asher also had his grandsons, Heber and Malkiel. Dan was with his only son, Hushim, playfully throwing stones at the sons of Naphtali, Jahzeel, Gunai, Jezer, and Shilom. Jacob looked upon the vast number of people before him. Through God's blessings, he had created a small nation. Now it was time to begin a new chapter in the land of Egypt. With God's favour behind them and before them, the chosen people ventured away from Canaan, prepared to begin their new lives under Joseph's protection. Jacob rested on a wagon pulled by two donkeys. Accompanying him were a few of his grandchildren and great grandchildren. The journey was filled with hopeful joy, and the supplies given by Joseph made the long trek far more manageable. Jacob and his sons looked at the horizon and saw the majestic architecture of Egypt. Its splendor was like the rising sun. The very land that was meant to be Joseph's tomb turned out to be the land of deliverance for his family. The entire family cheered as they entered the borders of Egypt. The land had clearly been affected by the famine as well, but due to Joseph's brilliance, irrigation systems and patches of lush farmland were still intact. It had been the first sign of life they had seen seen for miles. Jacob's lip began to quiver. His bones ached from a long journey, but his heart was bursting forth with youthful zeal.
Jacob
Judah, come here.
Judah
Yes, father.
Jacob
Run ahead and tell my son that we have arrived. I do not want to waste one more second.
Narrator
Judah bowed his head and ran ahead. He made his way to the lavish estate of Joseph. He was sitting in the courtyard with a few of his officials, strategizing for rationing in the next year. Judah came in escorted by guards. Joseph looked up and immediately stood in joy.
Joseph
Is he here?
Narrator
His excited grin was like a little child's. Judah simply nodded. He sprang up to go to meet his father. But before he left, he paused. He turned to Judah, who was still standing still. Joseph stepped lightly and placed a hand on his shoulder. Judah's body quivered slightly. His fists tensed, then released as he spoke.
Judah
Greatness. That's what Abraham was called to do. Building a nation, a legacy. You've done it, Joseph. Your name will be engraved in the hearts and minds of of people for generations to come. And I. Well, I'm glad I at least got to witness it. You're a king. And your children will most likely be kings as well. I will be lucky if mine even lasts another generation, given my luck.
Narrator
Greatness.
Joseph
You know, before I wore these royal amulets, I wore chains. Before those chains, my hands were bound up by rope as a slave. The path to greatness can be treacherous.
Judah
And the way of kings is marked by suffering.
Joseph
Your legacy may not be fully seen by your children or your grandchildren, but give it time. The generations that follow may sing of your greatness.
Judah
Maybe you're right. What are you. What are you doing here with me? Go see your father.
Narrator
Joseph was gone in an instant. He mounted his chariot, eyes beaming with hope and pride. He reached out a hand to Judah.
Joseph
You want a taste of greatness, Judah?
Jacob
Hop on.
Narrator
Judah ran like a child and hopped onto the chariot. The two of them rode through the city streets with ferocious speed. Judah had never ridden a horse before, let alone a chariot. Its speed was nearly blinding. Joseph was beaming with joy. Tears welled up in his eyes as he saw the small caravan of people in the distance. Father Jacob looked up. Behind a golden chariot pulled by Egyptian stallions, a tall, tanned man adorned with royal garments approached. His headdress flew off from the wind, revealing long brown curls. Jacob peered at the figure, wondering if it was Pharaoh himself coming to greet them. But it wasn't. The man riding towards him was his son, Joseph. His lost child.
Jacob
Joseph. Joseph. Joseph.
Joseph
Father.
Narrator
He was close now, and the horses made an abrupt stop with the sun at his back. The glimmering Redeemer of Israel stood before Jacob. The man who had suffered so the rest may be saved had arrived. Joseph the dreamer was reunited with his father. Joseph dismounted his chariot. Jacob was helped off of the wagon. The two of them stood 10ft away from each other. It had been many years since they had seen each other. Jacob stepped forward and touched his son's face. Tears streamed down the cracks of his face.
Jacob
Is it you, my son?
Joseph
Yes father, it's me. I'm here.
Narrator
He crumbled into his father's arms like child and sobbed. The two of them embraced. Jacob held his son's face.
Judah
Now.
Jacob
Now I may die in peace since I have seen your face and know that you are alive.
Narrator
This pray.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Catena, Max Bard, Zach Shellavarger and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosalie and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the chosen people, please rate and leave a review. And Doug here we have the Limu Emu in its natural habitat, helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual.
Jacob
Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug.
Narrator
Limu is that guy with the binoculars watching us.
Jacob
Cut the camera.
Narrator
They see us.
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Podcast Host
Okay, only 10 more presents to wrap. You're almost at the finish line, but first.
Narrator
There the last one.
Podcast Host
Enjoy a Coca Cola for a pop. Pause that refreshes.
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Narrator
Guaranteed Human.
Podcast Host: Pray.com
Date: December 25, 2025
In this emotionally charged episode, the podcast journeys through the pivotal reunion of Joseph and his family, focusing on themes of forgiveness, faith, and redemption. The narrative transports listeners to the heart of Genesis, dramatizing the final chapters of Joseph’s story: the moment he reveals his identity to his brothers, the forgiveness and restoration of the family, Jacob’s struggle to believe the impossible, and the family’s resettlement in Egypt. Through evocative storytelling and character-driven dialogue, the episode explores what it means to reconcile after betrayal and how faith can sustain through suffering.
(01:06–03:06)
(05:25–12:11)
(12:11–14:35)
(16:05–19:00)
(19:02–21:08)
(21:09–23:27)
Judah’s Offer:
“Have me remain as a slave on Benjamin's behalf. Let me suffer so he can live.” — Judah (01:59)
Joseph’s Forgiveness & Perspective:
“God sent me here to preserve life... Do not hold your heads low in shame because you sold me here.” — Joseph (02:40)
Jacob’s Anguish & Release:
“Do not speak to me of Joseph. Do not chide me about your dead brother. I have grieved enough.” — Jacob (08:49)
“I have heard your words, my sons. That is enough.” — Jacob (10:11)
Jacob’s Joy:
“My son is alive. My son is alive.” — Jacob (11:19)
God’s Assurance:
“Do not fear the unknown... For there I will make you a great nation.” — Voice of God (13:54–14:05)
Joseph on Greatness:
“Before I wore these royal amulets, I wore chains. Before those chains, my hands were bound up by rope as a slave. The path to greatness can be treacherous.” — Joseph (20:36)
Jacob’s Fulfillment:
“Now I may die in peace since I have seen your face and know that you are alive.” — Jacob (23:17)
This episode of The Chosen People breathes new life into one of the Bible’s most beloved reconciliation stories, highlighting the interplay of suffering, forgiveness, and family destiny. Through dramatic performance and thoughtful reflection, listeners are encouraged to consider how faith in God’s overarching plan can transform pain into purpose and open the door to a future of hope.