Send the lad— Benjamin was now more than twenty-four years of age, and a father of several children, see ch. Genesis 46:21. The Hebrews call the youngest of the family a lad, without regard to age, 2 Samuel 18:12, 1 Chronicles 22:5. See also ch. Genesis 37:30.
That we may live and not die— The famine being severe, their corn is quickly spent. Jacob, with tender regard for his family, presses them to go; but Judah convinces him of the hopelessness of their journey, unless he will spare Benjamin, solemnly engaging to be surety for his return in safety. Judah's argument was very persuasive; he urged that Jacob could obtain nothing by withholding Benjamin, since, if he stayed at home, he must perish with all the family by famine: whereas, if he went, there was great probability of his returning in safety.