Why Joseph Did Not Try to Contact His Father from Egypt

In the biblical narrative, Joseph's journey from his youth to his rise as a powerful figure in Egypt is marked by numerous challenges and experiences. Among these is the question of why Joseph did not try to contact his father Jacob, who was then living in Canaan. This article delves into the reasons behind this decision and explores the broader context within the biblical text.

Joseph's Abandonment and Upbringing

Joseph's story begins tragically, as he was sold into slavery by his envious brothers and eventually ended up in Egypt. This event occurred when Joseph was quite young, as recorded in the Bible (Genesis 37:25). The age at which he was sold (around 17 years old) and his subsequent experiences in Egypt were formative. Being separated from his family at such a tender age made his situation more profound, especially as we consider the barriers to communication and the unknown challenges that would come with reconnecting with his family.

Financial and Logistics Constraints

Communication across the expansive ancient world was not easy. In those times, there were no postal systems, telephones, or modern navigation methods. Traveling between regions was a significant undertaking involving a large expense and considerable time. Joseph did not possess the means to finance such a journey, as he was in the service of Potiphar and later in the palace of Pharaoh. Additionally, the societal norms of the time required him to adhere to his duties and responsibilities. Disrupting these established roles to pursue a personal quest would have been highly unusual and could have jeopardized his newly found stability and power.

Political and Personal Safety

Joseph’s life in Egypt, as presented in the biblical account, was essentially safe and stable. He was elevated to a position of great power and influence, which came with its own set of responsibilities and social obligations. Changing his circumstances to travel to Canaan could have invited danger, especially given the political and social climate of the region in that era. The Leah and Rachel clan, led by Jacob, was one of the smaller and less powerful groups in the region. There was no strong guarantee that Joseph would be welcomed back, or that his potential to benefit from his new position in Egypt would be diminished.

The Impact of Time and Distance on Family Memory

By the time Joseph was made governor of Egypt, around 20 years had passed since his separation from his family. The passage of time naturally eroded the memory of his roots and the methods they used to communicate. Memories were passed down by word of mouth, and as time passed, details might have diminished or altered. Without any known current means of contact and little familiarity with the region, Joseph would have been faced with significant uncertainty about how to proceed. His experiences and the demands of his role made it challenging to think of contacting his father.

Conclusion: Joseph's Deeper Spiritual and Familial Teachings

The decision not to contact his father was not just a logistical or financial one, but also one driven by a deeper understanding of his mission and role. Joseph's story is often seen as a representation of divine providence and the unfolding of a greater plan. It may also portray humility and a willingness to submit to the will of God, even in the face of familial longing. Joseph's actions demonstrate a trust in divine intervention and a prioritization of his current responsibilities over personal desires.

Understanding why Joseph did not try to contact his father also raises broader questions about personal identity, familial bonds, and the impact of choice. It invites readers to reflect on their own values and the ways in which their decisions are influenced by context and circumstance.