TRV
Translation
King James Version
¶ Then Judah came near unto him, and said, Oh my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord's ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant: for thou art even as Pharaoh.
Complete Jewish Bible
Then Y'hudah approached Yosef and said, "Please, my lord! Let your servant say something to you privately; and don't be angry with your servant, for you are like Pharaoh himself.
Berean Standard Bible
Then Judah approached Joseph and said, “Sir, please let your servant speak personally to my lord. Do not be angry with your servant, for you are equal to Pharaoh himself.
American Standard Version
Then Judah came near unto him, and said, Oh, my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord’s ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant; for thou art even as Pharaoh.
World English Bible Messianic
Then Judah came near to him, and said, “Oh, my lord, please let your servant speak a word in my lord’s ears, and don’t let your anger burn against your servant; for you are even as Pharaoh.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then Iudah drewe neere vnto him, and sayde, O my Lord, let thy seruant nowe speake a worde in my lordes eares, and let not thy wrath be kindled against thy seruant: for thou art euen as Pharaoh.
Young's Literal Translation
And Judah cometh nigh unto him, and saith, `O, my lord, let thy servant speak, I pray thee, a word in the ears of my lord, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant--for thou art as Pharaoh.
See on the biblical-era map
In the KJVVerse 1,343 of 31,102
Study This Verse
Commentary on Genesis 44 verses 18–34
18 ¶ Then Judah came near unto him, and said, Oh my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord's ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant: for thou art even as Pharaoh.
19 My lord asked his servants, saying, Have ye a father, or a brother?
20 And we said unto my lord, We have a father, an old man, and a child of his old age, a little one; and his brother is dead, and he alone is left of his mother, and his father loveth him.
21 And thou saidst unto thy servants, Bring him down unto me, that I may set mine eyes upon him.
22 And we said unto my lord, The lad cannot leave his father: for if he should leave his father, his father would die.
23 And thou saidst unto thy servants, Except your youngest brother come down with you, ye shall see my face no more.
24 And it came to pass when we came up unto thy servant my father, we told him the words of my lord.
25 And our father said, Go again, and buy us a little food.
26 And we said, We cannot go down: if our youngest brother be with us, then will we go down: for we may not see the man's face, except our youngest brother be with us.
27 And thy servant my father said unto us, Ye know that my wife bare me two sons:
28 And the one went out from me, and I said, Surely he is torn in pieces; and I saw him not since:
29 And if ye take this also from me, and mischief befall him, ye shall bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave.
30 Now therefore when I come to thy servant my father, and the lad be not with us; seeing that his life is bound up in the lad's life;
31 It shall come to pass, when he seeth that the lad is not with us, that he will die: and thy servants shall bring down the gray hairs of thy servant our father with sorrow to the grave.
32 For thy servant became surety for the lad unto my father, saying, If I bring him not unto thee, then I shall bear the blame to my father for ever.
33 Now therefore, I pray thee, let thy servant abide instead of the lad a bondman to my lord; and let the lad go up with his brethren.
34 For how shall I go up to my father, and the lad be not with me? lest peradventure I see the evil that shall come on my father.
We have here a most ingenious and pathetic speech which Judah made to Joseph on Benjamin's behalf, to obtain his discharge from the sentence passed upon him. Perhaps Judah was a better friend to Benjamin than the rest were, and more solicitous to bring him off; or he thought himself under greater obligations to attempt it than the rest, because he had passed his word to his father for his safe return; or the rest chose him for their spokesman, because he was a man of better sense, and better spirit, and had a greater command of language than any of them. His address, as it is here recorded, is so very natural and so expressive of his present feelings that we cannot but suppose Moses, who wrote it so long after, to have written it under the special direction of him that made man's mouth.
I. A great deal of unaffected art, and unstudied unforced rhetoric, there is in this speech. 1. He addresses himself to Joseph with a great deal of respect and deference, calls him his lord, himself and his brethren his servants, begs his patient hearing, and ascribes sovereign authority to him: "Thou art even as Pharaoh, one whose favour we desire and whose wrath we dread as we do Pharaoh's." Religion does not destroy good manners, and it is prudence to speak respectfully to those at whose mercy we lie: titles of honour to those that are entitled to them are not flattering titles. 2. He represented Benjamin as one well worthy of his compassionate consideration (Gen 44:20); he was a little one, compared with the rest of them; the youngest, not acquainted with the world, nor ever inured to hardship, having always been brought up tenderly with his father. It made the case the more pitiable that he alone was left of his mother, and his brother was dead, namely, Joseph. Little did Judah think what a tender point he touched upon now. Judah knew that Joseph was sold, and therefore had reason enough to think that he was alive; at least he could not be sure that he was dead: but they had made their father believe he was dead; and now they had told that lie so long that they had forgotten the truth, and begun to believe the lie themselves. 3. He urged it very closely that Joseph had himself constrained them to bring Benjamin with them, had expressed a desire to see him (Gen 44:21), and had forbidden them his presence unless they brought Benjamin with them (Gen 44:23, Gen 44:26), all which intimated that he designed him some kindness; and must he be brought with so much difficulty to the preferment of a perpetual slavery? Was he not brought to Egypt, in obedience, purely in obedience, to the command of Joseph? and would he not show him some mercy? Some observe that Jacob's sons, in reasoning with their father, had said, We will not go down unless Benjamin go with us (Gen 43:5); but that when Judah comes to relate the story he expresses it more decently: "We cannot go down with any expectation to speed well." Indecent words spoken in haste to our superiors should be recalled and amended. 4. The great argument he insisted upon was the insupportable grief it would be to his aged father if Benjamin should be left behind in servitude: His father loveth him, Gen 44:20. This they had pleaded against Joseph's insisting on his coming down (Gen 44:22): "If he should leave his father, his father would die; much more if now he be left behind, never more to return to him." This the old man, of whom they spoke, had pleaded against his going down: If mischief befal him, you shall bring down my gray hairs, that crown of glory, with sorrow to the grave, Gen 44:29. This therefore Judah presses with a great deal of earnestness: "His life is bound up in the lad's life (Gen 44:30); when he sees that the lad is not with us, he will faint away, and die immediately (Gen 44:31), or will abandon himself to such a degree of sorrow as will, in a few days, make an end of him." And, lastly, Judah pleads that, for his part, he could not bear to see this: Let me not see the evil that shall come on my father, Gen 44:34. Note, It is the duty of children to be very tender of their parents' comfort, and to be afraid of every thing that may be an occasion of grief to them. Thus the love that descended first must again ascend, and something must be done towards a recompense for their care. 5. Judah, in honour to the justice of Joseph's sentence, and to show his sincerity in this plea, offers himself to become a bondsman instead of Benjamin, Gen 44:33. Thus the law would be satisfied; Joseph would be no loser (for we may suppose Judah a more able-bodied man than Benjamin, and fitter for service); and Jacob would better bear the loss of him than of Benjamin. Now, so far was he from grieving at his father's particular fondness for Benjamin, that he was himself willing to be a bondman to indulge it.
Now, had Joseph been, as Judah supposed him, an utter stranger to the family, yet even common humanity could not but be wrought upon by such powerful reasonings as these; for nothing could be said more moving, more tender; it was enough to melt a heart of stone. But to Joseph, who was nearer akin to Benjamin than Judah himself was, and who, at this time, felt a greater affection both for him and his aged father than Judah did, nothing could be more pleasingly nor more happily said. Neither Jacob nor Benjamin needed an intercessor with Joseph; for he himself loved them.
II. Upon the whole matter let us take notice, 1. How prudently Judah suppressed all mention of the crime that was charged upon Benjamin. Had he said any thing by way of acknowledgment of it, he would have reflected on Benjamin's honesty, and seemed too forward to suspect that; had he said any thing by way of denial of it, he would have reflected on Joseph's justice, and the sentence he had passed: therefore he wholly waives that head, and appeals to Joseph's pity. Compare with this that of Job, in humbling himself before God (Job 9:15), Though I were righteous, yet would I not answer; I would not argue, but petition; I would make supplication to my Judge. 2. What good reason dying Jacob had to say, Judah, thou art he whom they brethren shall praise (Gen 49:8), for he excelled them all in boldness, wisdom, eloquence, and especially tenderness for their father and family. 3. Judah's faithful adherence to Benjamin, now in his distress, was recompensed long after by the constant adherence of the tribe of Benjamin to the tribe of Judah, when all the other ten tribes deserted it. 4. How fitly does the apostle, when he is discoursing of the mediation of Christ, observe, that our Lord sprang out of Judah (Heb 7:14); for, like his father Judah, he not only made intercession for the transgressors, but he became a surety for them, as it follows there (Gen 44:22), testifying therein a very tender concern both for his father and for his brethren.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 18–34. Public domain.
Copy as
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
Copy as
Continue studying Genesis 44:18 across the web’s major study libraries — every link below opens this exact verse, chapter, or book on the destination site.
Read & Compare
BibleGatewayThis verse in more than 200 translations and 70 languages.
Bible.comThe YouVersion reader — hundreds of translations, reading plans, and highlights.
ESV.orgCrossway's official English Standard Version reader.
NET BibleThe NET translation with 60,000+ translators' notes on every rendering decision.
STEP BibleTyndale House's free study tool — original text, vocabulary, and scholarly resources.
BibliaLogos Bible Software's free web reader.
USCCBThe New American Bible (Revised Edition) with the U.S. bishops' study notes.
Commentaries
BibleHub CommentariesDozens of classic commentaries on this verse, gathered on one page.
StudyLightMore than 100 commentary sets — the largest collection on the web.
BibleRefPlain-English commentary on what this verse means, verse by verse.
Enduring WordDavid Guzik's free commentary on this chapter, widely used by Bible teachers.
Bible Study ToolsVerse commentary alongside Greek and Hebrew study aids.
Original Language & Research
- BibleHub InterlinearThe verse word by word — original language, transliteration, and English.
- BibleHub LexiconEvery word's original-language definition and Strong's entry.
Blue Letter BibleDeep-study tools — Strong's numbers, concordance, and word studies.
SefariaThe Hebrew text with Rashi and centuries of Jewish commentary.
Sermons, Hymns & Audio
TrulyRandomVerse is not affiliated with these sites and doesn’t control their content. They’re linked because they’re genuinely useful.
SUMMARY
Genesis 44:18 marks the dramatic turning point in the Joseph narrative, where Judah, demonstrating profound spiritual transformation and unwavering familial loyalty, courageously steps forward to make a passionate, humble, and self-sacrificial plea before the powerful Egyptian governor, whom he does not yet recognize as Joseph. This pivotal verse initiates Judah's eloquent intercession, highlighting his willingness to bear the consequences for his younger brother Benjamin and prevent further grief for his aged father, Jacob, thereby showcasing a remarkable shift from his past self-serving actions.
CONTEXT
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Judah's approach in Genesis 44:18 is a profound act of humility and courage, initiating one of the most moving speeches in the Old Testament. He steps forward, risking the wrath of a man he perceives as second only to Pharaoh, to plead for his brother's freedom.
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
Genesis 44:18 is rich with Dramatic Irony, as Judah, unaware that he is speaking to his long-lost brother Joseph, addresses him with utmost deference, believing him to be an impersonal, powerful Egyptian official. This irony heightens the emotional tension of the scene. The repeated use of "my lord" is a form of Anaphora and Repetition, emphasizing Judah's submissive posture and the profound respect he accords Joseph's perceived authority. The phrase "let not thine anger burn" is a vivid Idiom or Metaphor, drawing on the physical sensation of heat to convey intense wrath. Finally, the Simile "thou art even as Pharaoh" serves as a powerful Hyperbole, underscoring Joseph's perceived absolute power and Judah's desperate recognition of it, setting the stage for a plea of immense courage and humility.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Judah's courageous intercession in Genesis 44:18 and his subsequent offer of substitution for Benjamin (Genesis 44:33) stand as a profound theological statement on the themes of redemption, transformation, and intercession. His willingness to sacrifice his own freedom for his brother's, and to spare his father further grief, marks a remarkable shift from his past self-interest and complicity in selling Joseph. This moment underscores that true repentance leads to a changed heart, evidenced by selfless action and responsibility. It highlights the divine work of grace in transforming individuals, demonstrating that past failures do not define one's future when there is genuine repentance and a change of heart. Judah's act foreshadows the ultimate intercessor and redeemer.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Judah's courageous intercession serves as a powerful example of taking responsibility and standing up for others, even at great personal cost. His transformation reminds us of the profound potential for change and redemption in individuals; past failures do not define one's future when there is genuine repentance and a change of heart. This narrative encourages believers to cultivate compassion, humility, and a willingness to advocate for those who are vulnerable, reflecting a Christ-like attitude of intercession and self-sacrifice for others. It challenges us to consider where we might be called to step forward, speak truth, and offer ourselves for the well-being of others, even when it is difficult or risky, trusting in God's sovereign plan to work through our obedience and transformed hearts.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why does Judah compare Joseph to Pharaoh?
Answer: Judah compares Joseph to Pharaoh to acknowledge Joseph's supreme and unquestionable authority in Egypt. In Judah's eyes, Joseph, as the powerful governor, wields power equivalent to the king himself, making his plea all the more humble and desperate. This comparison emphasizes the high stakes of the situation and Judah's profound fear of incurring the displeasure of such a formidable figure, whose word he believes holds the power of life and death over them. It highlights the immense courage required for Judah to even initiate such a plea.
What does Judah's transformation signify for believers today?
Answer: Judah's transformation from someone who suggested selling his brother into slavery (Genesis 37:26-27) to one willing to sacrifice himself for another brother (Genesis 44:33) signifies the profound power of repentance and God's ability to redeem and change hearts. For believers, it offers immense hope that past failures do not define one's future and that genuine change is possible through God's grace. It illustrates that true repentance leads to tangible acts of selfless love, responsibility, and intercession, reflecting a heart aligned with God's redemptive purposes.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Judah's intercession for Benjamin, offering himself as a substitute to save his brother and preserve his family, powerfully foreshadows the ultimate intercession and substitutionary work of Jesus Christ. Just as Judah stepped forward to bear the potential consequences for another, Christ, a descendant of Judah (from the tribe of Judah, as prophesied in Genesis 49:10), willingly offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice and substitute for humanity. He bore the wrath of God on our behalf to secure our freedom from sin and reconcile us with the Father (Romans 5:8). Judah's act of selfless love and substitutionary willingness points to the greater love and ultimate substitutionary atonement found in Jesus Christ, our great High Priest and Intercessor, who ever lives to make intercession for us (Hebrews 7:25). Through Christ, the true "Lion of Judah" (Revelation 5:5), we find not just a temporary reprieve but eternal redemption and reconciliation with God.