How Old Was Joseph When Benjamin Was Born?

Joseph’s exact age when Benjamin was born is not stated. Because Benjamin’s birth precedes Joseph’s sale at age 17, Joseph was younger than 17—possibly only a few years old if Benjamin was born late in the window, or a young teenager if Benjamin was born soon after the family left Padan-aram.

The chronological window

Joseph was born in Padan-aram. Benjamin was born later, near Bethlehem, before the events of Genesis 37 in which Joseph is seventeen. Joseph must therefore have been between infancy and sixteen when Benjamin was born.

The text does not say how many years separated the two births. Any single number is an estimate, not a quoted age.

Why Joseph still knew he had a brother

Even if Benjamin was born only shortly before Joseph was sold, the narrative order allows Joseph to know of a younger brother from Rachel. When Joseph later sees Benjamin in Egypt, he recognizes him as his brother, his mother’s son, and is deeply moved.

For the reverse question—Jacob’s age at Benjamin’s birth—and for Benjamin’s age in Egypt, use the linked articles.