Genesis 42:20

But bring your youngest brother unto me; so shall your words be verified, and ye shall not die. And they did so.

But bring {H935} your youngest {H6996} brother {H251} unto me; so shall your words {H1697} be verified {H539}, and ye shall not die {H4191}. And they did {H6213} so.

But bring your youngest brother to me. In this way your statements will be verified, and you won't die." So they did it.

Then bring your youngest brother to me so that your words can be verified, that you may not die.” And to this they consented.

and bring your youngest brother unto me; so shall your words be verified, and ye shall not die. And they did so.

Commentary

Context

Genesis 42:20 occurs at a pivotal point in the story of Joseph, who has risen to become the powerful governor of Egypt, second only to Pharaoh himself (Genesis 41:40). His ten older brothers, unaware of his true identity, have come to Egypt from Canaan to buy grain during a severe famine. Joseph recognizes them immediately but chooses to conceal his identity, treating them harshly and accusing them of being spies. This demand to bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, is part of Joseph's intricate plan to test their character and see if they have changed since they sold him into slavery many years prior (Genesis 37:28). The brothers' willingness to endanger Benjamin, Jacob's most beloved son after Joseph, would reveal much about their current integrity and compassion.

Key Themes

  • Testing and Verification: Joseph's command is a direct test of his brothers' honesty and their claim of being "true men." By demanding Benjamin's presence, he seeks concrete proof of their words, ensuring their sincerity.
  • Divine Providence: Though Joseph's actions appear harsh, they are part of God's overarching plan to bring about reconciliation and preserve the family of Jacob, ultimately leading to the fulfillment of Joseph's prophetic dreams (Genesis 37:7). This intricate situation highlights the theme of divine providence, where God uses human actions, even difficult ones, for His ultimate good.
  • Consequences and Redemption: The brothers' fear of death and their forced return to Jacob to bring Benjamin is a direct consequence of their past actions and Joseph's strategic maneuvering. It sets the stage for a profound process of repentance and redemption within the family.

Linguistic Insight

The KJV phrase "so shall your words be verified" uses the Hebrew word Χ ΦΈΧ›ΦΉΧ•ΧŸ (*nakhon*), which means to be established, confirmed, or true. It signifies that their claims of being honest men, with a living father and a younger brother, would be proven as fact, not merely asserted. The simple declaration, "And they did so," underscores the immediate and fearful obedience of the brothers to Joseph's powerful command.

Practical Application

This verse offers several insights for believers today:

  • Trust in God's Unseen Hand: Even in confusing or challenging circumstances, like those faced by Joseph's brothers, God is often working behind the scenes to accomplish His purposes. We are called to trust in His sovereign plan, even when we don't understand the immediate events.
  • Integrity Matters: The demand for verification highlights the importance of truthfulness and integrity in our words and actions. Our character is proven by our deeds, not just our claims.
  • Consequences and Growth: Past wrongs often have long-term consequences that can lead to challenging situations. However, these trials can also be opportunities for personal growth, repentance, and ultimately, reconciliation, as seen in the unfolding story of Joseph and his brothers.
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Cross-References

  • Genesis 44:23 (5 votes)

    And thou saidst unto thy servants, Except your youngest brother come down with you, ye shall see my face no more.

  • Genesis 43:5 (5 votes)

    But if thou wilt not send [him], we will not go down: for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother [be] with you.

  • Genesis 42:34 (5 votes)

    And bring your youngest brother unto me: then shall I know that ye [are] no spies, but [that] ye [are] true [men: so] will I deliver you your brother, and ye shall traffick in the land.

  • Genesis 42:15 (3 votes)

    Hereby ye shall be proved: By the life of Pharaoh ye shall not go forth hence, except your youngest brother come hither.

  • Genesis 43:19 (2 votes)

    And they came near to the steward of Joseph's house, and they communed with him at the door of the house,

  • Genesis 6:22 (2 votes)

    ΒΆ Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he.

  • Genesis 42:26 (2 votes)

    And they laded their asses with the corn, and departed thence.