The moment a father learns his long-lost son is alive marks a dramatic turning point, shifting him from deep sadness to a state of peace and hope. After a long period of mourning, the spirit of prophecy finally returns to him [רבנו בחיי, העמק דבר]. This spiritual elevation allows him to overcome his doubts and reach a firm decision [רש ר הירש, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This personal transformation also carries a broader historical weight, marking a shift from an individual journey to a national destiny. The descent into Egypt is not merely a private reunion between father and son, but rather the beginning of the entire nation's exile. Out of this exile, the children of Israel will eventually emerge proudly, returning to their former greatness [צפנת פענח, רבנו בחיי].
Upon absorbing the news, the immediate reaction is an overwhelming sense of abundance and satisfaction. The primary approach among commentators is that this reflects a feeling of immense goodness and joy. Another prominent view suggests a deep contentment simply with the fact of his son's survival. Knowing he is alive is entirely sufficient, and there is no interest in hearing about his royal power or high status in Egypt [רשב״ם, כלי יקר, חזקוני ואחרים]. This sentiment is also seen as a direct request to his other sons to stop talking at length about their brother's wealth, as the only thing that matters is his survival [דעת זקנים, צרור המור]. From a different angle, this reaction expresses a deep relief, signaling an end to the years of intense grief [שד״ל], or a feeling that his life is now complete now that he knows his son breathes [אם למקרא]. A more spiritual perspective suggests this hints at the great reward awaiting him in the World to Come, as the knowledge that his son did not die during his lifetime assured him that he was saved from the punishment of hell [כלי יקר, רבנו בחיי]. A unique interpretation views this moment as a hidden message to his brother Esau, warning him not to rejoice in his downfall, because his great rival is still alive [הדר זקנים, צאינה וראינה]. An additional, surprising opinion proposes that he actually turned to the leader of the wagon caravan, addressing him with a title of respect, to personally verify the truth of the news [הטור הארוך, דעת זקנים].
Once the reality of the news sets in, the realization that his son is alive extends far beyond physical survival. Through the holy spirit, he understands that his child has remained true to his roots in every way. Despite the many years and difficult trials faced in Egypt, he has maintained his righteousness and stayed on the path of his ancestors [העמק דבר, מלבי״ם]. Yet, this joyous reunion is not without its shadows. The tears that will later be shed upon their meeting are seen by some as an expression of sorrow, reflecting a realization that this new position of power hints at a future division in the kingdom of Israel between Judah and Joseph [חתם סופר].
The immediate declaration to go and see his son highlights his original intention. He does not plan to permanently move to Egypt or settle there to enjoy the newfound honor and wealth. His only desire is to visit his child and then return to his homeland, the land of Canaan [ספורנו, שד״ל, מלבי״ם]. In truth, he is deeply afraid of leaving the Promised Land and making the descent into Egypt. Because of this intense fear, he immediately offers sacrifices to consult with God, seeking His clear approval before embarking on the journey [רלב״ג, צרור המור, ביאור יש״ר].