But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent out our fathers first.

But Jacob, having heard of there being corn in Egypt, sent out our fathers first;

But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt, he sent forth our fathers the first time.

When, however, Jacob heard that there was wheat to be had, he sent our forefathers into Egypt; that was the first time.

But Jacob, hearing that there was grain in Egypt, sent out our fathers the first time.

But when Jacob had heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent our fathers first.

Hearing, however, that there was corn in Egypt, Jacob sent our ancestors there on their first visit.

Was corn in Egypt - The word "corn" here rather denotes "wheat." See the notes on Matthew 12:1.
Our fathers - His ten sons; all his sons except Joseph and Benjamin, Genesis. 42: Stephen here "refers" only to the history, without entering into details. By this general reference he sufficiently showed that he believed what Moses had spoken, and did not intend to show him disrespect.

But when Jacob heard that there was corn in Egypt,.... Not then growing, or gathering in there, or that was of that year's produce; for the famine was strong in the land of Egypt, as well as in Canaan; but was what had been laid up, and preserved in the seven years of plenty, by the order and care of Joseph; which by some means or another, Jacob had heard of; see Genesis 42:1 the Jews suggest (u), that it was by divine revelation:
he sent out our fathers first; the first time, or the first year of the famine; or he sent them first, he laid his commands on them, or they had not gone; these were the ten sons of Jacob, and brethren of Joseph, who were sent the first time, for Benjamin stayed with his father: see Genesis 42:3.
(u) Bereshit Rabba, sect. 91. fol. 78. 1, 2.

Sent our fathers first - Without Benjamin.