בראשית, פרק מ״ב, פסוק כ״ז

The journey back to Canaan is abruptly interrupted by a terrifying discovery. What begins as a routine overnight stop at a temporary encampment—rather than a formal inn [מזרחי, שפתי חכמים]—quickly turns into a moment of dread when the payment for the Egyptian grain suddenly reappears. The identity of the brother who opens his supplies is a matter of varying interpretations. A straightforward approach suggests it is simply a random brother, reflecting standard storytelling [אבן עזרא, רד״ק, שד״ל]. Another perspective identifies him as Reuben, the firstborn, who naturally counts as the first of the group [אבן עזרא]. However, the primary approach among commentators is that this refers specifically to Levi, who is left solitary and without his usual partner after Simeon is imprisoned in Egypt [רש״י, רד״ק, מזרחי, גור אריה, שפתי חכמים]. Levi is forced to open his bags because he is now managing Simeon's donkey in addition to his own. The fodder he prepared in advance is insufficient for two animals, compelling him to access the newly purchased grain. The other brothers do not need to do this, either because their animals are stronger or because they still have adequate straw from their journey [רמב״ן, הטור הארוך, הרא״ש, הדר זקנים, ביאור יש״ר].

The nature of the luggage itself offers insight into the unfolding drama. Some commentators view the different descriptions of the brothers' bags as synonyms for a single container that stretches and expands as it is filled [רש״י, רלב״ג, שד״ל]. Others suggest it is a large, two-sided saddlebag draped over the animal, and Levi simply happens to open the side containing the money [רמב״ן, הטור הארוך, ביאור יש״ר]. A third approach describes a large, flexible outer wrapping that holds several smaller sacks and bundles inside [רמב״ן, הטור הארוך, מיני תרגומא, רש״ר הירש]. Alternatively, a distinct view separates the containers entirely: one is a large sack for the grain, while the other is a smaller personal feed bag hung around the donkey's neck, necessary because donkeys are notoriously picky eaters. The discovery of the money specifically in the animal's personal feed bag—a place the Egyptian grain merchants would have no reason to touch—deeply shakes the brothers. They instantly realize this is not an accidental spill made during the loading process, but a deliberate and targeted act [הכתב והקבלה, העמק דבר].

The exact placement of the silver at the very opening of the bag, rather than buried at the bottom, reveals Joseph's highly calculated plan. He specifically ordered the money to be placed at the top of Levi's bag alone so that it would be discovered on the very first night of the journey. The rest of the brothers also have their money returned, but it is hidden deep within their grain sacks. Joseph knows that if all the brothers discover their returned silver simultaneously, they will immediately turn the caravan around to prove their honesty. By ensuring that only one brother finds his money, Joseph guarantees that the group will not delay their return to their father. Through this precise strategy, Joseph successfully provokes anxiety and remorse among the brothers—particularly targeting Levi, who was a primary instigator in selling him into slavery—without stopping their journey home [רד״ק, דברי דוד].