Genesis 43:31 - He washed his face, and came out. He controlled himself, and said, “Serve the meal.”
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What does "Genesis 43:31" mean?
This verse from Genesis 43:31 is describing Joseph's internal struggle as he encounters his brothers again, whom he hasn't seen in many years and who sold him into slavery. Let's break it down:
"He washed his face, and came out." Joseph, who is now a high-ranking official in Egypt and unrecognizable to his brothers, is overcome with emotion upon seeing them. Washing his face is likely an attempt to compose himself, hide his tears, and regain his composure before facing them again. It's a practical action to regain control over his outward appearance.
"He controlled himself, and said, 'Serve the meal.'" This is the key point. Joseph is battling conflicting emotions: love for his brothers, grief over the past, and perhaps lingering anger or resentment at their betrayal. The phrase "He controlled himself" shows his deliberate effort to suppress these feelings. He's choosing to act according to his role as an Egyptian official rather than revealing his true identity and unleashing his emotions. The command "Serve the meal" is a simple, practical order that demonstrates he's regaining control and moving forward with his plan, whatever that may be.
In essence, the verse highlights Joseph's inner turmoil and his conscious decision to maintain a facade of composure and authority despite his emotions. It sets the stage for the unfolding drama as Joseph continues to interact with his brothers, testing their character and eventually revealing himself to them. It emphasizes the power of self-control and the tension between personal feelings and outward behavior.
Genesis 43:31 - He washed his face, and came out. He controlled himself, and said, “Serve the meal.”
What does "Genesis 43:31" mean?
This verse from Genesis 43:31 is describing Joseph's internal struggle as he encounters his brothers again, whom he hasn't seen in many years and who sold him into slavery. Let's break it down:
"He washed his face, and came out." Joseph, who is now a high-ranking official in Egypt and unrecognizable to his brothers, is overcome with emotion upon seeing them. Washing his face is likely an attempt to compose himself, hide his tears, and regain his composure before facing them again. It's a practical action to regain control over his outward appearance.
"He controlled himself, and said, 'Serve the meal.'" This is the key point. Joseph is battling conflicting emotions: love for his brothers, grief over the past, and perhaps lingering anger or resentment at their betrayal. The phrase "He controlled himself" shows his deliberate effort to suppress these feelings. He's choosing to act according to his role as an Egyptian official rather than revealing his true identity and unleashing his emotions. The command "Serve the meal" is a simple, practical order that demonstrates he's regaining control and moving forward with his plan, whatever that may be.
In essence, the verse highlights Joseph's inner turmoil and his conscious decision to maintain a facade of composure and authority despite his emotions. It sets the stage for the unfolding drama as Joseph continues to interact with his brothers, testing their character and eventually revealing himself to them. It emphasizes the power of self-control and the tension between personal feelings and outward behavior.