בראשית, פרק מ״ז, פסוק ט״ז

The people of Egypt face a severe famine, reaching a point where their financial resources are entirely wiped out. In desperation, they seek a way to survive. Joseph responds to their distress by offering an alternative solution through a barter system. He instructs them to bring their herds to him [אבי עזר, ביאור יש״ר], promising to provide food in direct exchange for their animals [ביאור יש״ר, ביאור שטיינזלץ]. This arrangement is established specifically because their money is completely depleted [ביאור שטיינזלץ, מחוקקי יהודה; יהל אור].

However, the demand for their animals is not merely a matter of practical economic management. It serves as a calculated method to test the sincerity of the Egyptian people. Joseph does not immediately believe their claims of total bankruptcy. By asking them to hand over their herds, he creates a definitive test of their truthfulness. A farmer would only surrender his livestock, which is his most vital and essential asset, if he truly has absolutely no other options left [העמק דבר].