Genesis 40:6

KJV

And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they [were] sad.

KJV (with Strong's)

And Joseph {H3130} came in {H935} unto them in the morning {H1242}, and looked {H7200} upon them, and, behold, they were sad {H2196}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yosef came in to them in the morning and saw that they looked sad.

Berean Standard Bible

When Joseph came to them in the morning, he saw that they were distraught.

American Standard Version

And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and saw them, and, behold, they were sad.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Genesis 40:6 describes Joseph's observant and empathetic nature as he encounters Pharaoh's chief butler and chief baker in prison, noting their visible sadness. This seemingly small detail is a crucial narrative pivot, setting the stage for Joseph's interpretation of their dreams, which will ultimately lead to his remembrance and eventual rise to power, aligning with God's overarching plan.

### CONTEXT
This verse is situated within the broader narrative of Joseph's unjust imprisonment in Egypt, a consequence of being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife, as detailed in [Genesis 39:20](/genesis/39-20 "Joseph's Imprisonment"). Despite his difficult circumstances, Joseph had found favor with the keeper of the prison, being entrusted with significant responsibilities over other inmates. The arrival of Pharaoh's chief butler and chief baker, both having offended the king, brings new individuals into Joseph's immediate sphere. Joseph's observation of their distress in this moment serves as a pivotal setup for the dream interpretations that follow, which are instrumental in God's intricate plan for Joseph's deliverance and future role.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Upon entering the prison cell in the morning, Joseph immediately noticed the distressed countenances of the chief butler and chief baker. The text states, "And Joseph came in unto them in the morning, and looked upon them, and, behold, they [were] sad." Joseph's action of "**looking upon them**" (Hebrew: *ra'ah*) implies more than a casual glance; it suggests a careful, discerning gaze, indicative of his attentiveness to the emotional state of those around him.

The Hebrew word translated "**sad**" is *ra'ah* (רָעָה), which, while literally meaning "bad" or "evil," is used here in a contextual sense to signify "troubled," "distressed," "gloomy," or "downcast." It points to a deep-seated discomfort or affliction that was clearly visible on their faces, rather than just a fleeting moment of unhappiness. Their sadness stemmed from the uncertainty and fear inherent in their imprisonment, facing an unknown fate at the hands of Pharaoh. Joseph's immediate recognition of their inner turmoil, even amidst his own suffering, highlights his compassionate character and keen observational skills. This moment underscores Joseph's unique sensitivity and his willingness to engage with the suffering of others, a trait that would prove significant in the unfolding of divine providence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
* **Empathy and Compassion:** Joseph's ability to notice and care about the emotional state of others, even when he himself was suffering unjustly, highlights his deep compassion and Christ-like character. He did not merely see them; he actively observed and responded to their distress.
* **Divine Providence and Sovereignty:** This seemingly small act of noticing sadness is a crucial, divinely orchestrated step in God's larger plan for Joseph. It sets the stage for the dream interpretations that will eventually lead to Joseph's freedom and his pivotal role in saving many lives, including his own family. God often uses ordinary human interactions and Joseph's personal qualities to advance His extraordinary purposes, as Joseph himself later affirmed in [Genesis 50:20](/genesis/50-20 "Joseph's Declaration of God's Sovereignty").
* **Human Distress and Vulnerability:** The sadness of the chief butler and baker reflects the natural human reaction to uncertainty, fear, and the harsh realities of imprisonment. Their troubled countenances are a window into the universal experience of inner turmoil when faced with daunting circumstances.
* **God's Use of the Humble:** Even in the lowest point of his life, Joseph, a prisoner, is used by God to bring comfort and reveal divine messages, demonstrating God's pattern of working through the humble and overlooked.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joseph's example in [Genesis 40:6](/genesis/40-6 "Joseph Notices Sadness") encourages us to cultivate attentiveness and empathy towards those around us, especially individuals who may be struggling or in distress. Even when we ourselves face challenging situations, we are called to extend compassion and actively notice the needs of others. Often, God uses our sensitivity and willingness to engage with others' pain as part of His intricate plan, opening doors for ministry, encouragement, or even unforeseen opportunities to serve His purposes. Our ability to truly "see" and respond to the sadness of others can be a powerful channel for God's grace and intervention in their lives.

### FAQ
**Why was Joseph so observant of the butler and baker's sadness?**

Answer: Joseph's keen observation stems from his compassionate nature and perhaps also from his own experience of suffering and isolation in prison. Having endured unjust imprisonment, he likely understood the weight of despair and uncertainty. His ability to notice their sadness highlights his empathy and sensitivity, a characteristic that God would use throughout his life.

**Does this verse imply Joseph had a special ability to discern emotions supernaturally?**

Answer: While Joseph certainly had a gift for interpreting dreams, this verse does not necessarily imply a supernatural discernment of emotions. Rather, it suggests a highly developed sense of human observation and empathy. The sadness was visibly etched on their faces, and Joseph, being attentive, simply noticed what was apparent to a discerning eye. His sensitivity allowed him to perceive their distress and inquire further.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph's empathetic observation of the prisoners' sadness in [Genesis 40:6](/genesis/40-6 "Joseph Notices Sadness") foreshadows Christ's profound compassion and identification with human suffering. Like Joseph, who was unjustly imprisoned and yet ministered to those around him, Jesus, though innocent, bore the ultimate imprisonment of the cross, yet continually demonstrated perfect empathy for the distressed, the sick, and the sorrowful (e.g., [Matthew 9:36](/matthew/9-36 "Jesus' Compassion for the Crowds")). Christ is the ultimate fulfillment of Joseph's compassionate character, for He not only noticed human sadness but entered into it, taking upon Himself the full weight of human sorrow and sin to offer true comfort and eternal deliverance.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Daniel 7:28

Hitherto [is] the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart.

Genesis 40:8

And they said unto him, We have dreamed a dream, and [there is] no interpreter of it. And Joseph said unto them, [Do] not interpretations [belong] to God? tell me [them], I pray you.

Genesis 41:8

And it came to pass in the morning that his spirit was troubled; and he sent and called for all the magicians of Egypt, and all the wise men thereof: and Pharaoh told them his dream; but [there was] none that could interpret them unto Pharaoh.

Daniel 4:5

I saw a dream which made me afraid, and the thoughts upon my bed and the visions of my head troubled me.

Daniel 8:27

And I Daniel fainted, and was sick [certain] days; afterward I rose up, and did the king's business; and I was astonished at the vision, but none understood [it].

Daniel 2:1

¶ And in the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar Nebuchadnezzar dreamed dreams, wherewith his spirit was troubled, and his sleep brake from him.

Daniel 2:3

And the king said unto them, I have dreamed a dream, and my spirit was troubled to know the dream.