Genesis 44:24 - When we came up to your servant my father, we told him the words of my lord.

Generated Verse: Genesis 44:24

What does "Genesis 44:24" mean?


This verse is part of Joseph's brothers' explanation to him (though they don't know he is their brother) of why they returned to Egypt after having been sent home with grain. Let's break it down:

"When we came up to your servant my father..." This refers to when the brothers returned home to Jacob, their father, after their first trip to Egypt to buy grain.
"...we told him the words of my lord." "My lord" is Joseph. They are referring to the instructions and requirements Joseph had given them on their previous visit. Specifically, this likely includes his demand that they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, with them on the next trip to prove their truthfulness.

In essence, the verse means:

"When we returned home to our father, we told him everything you, our lord (Joseph), had told us to do and the conditions you set for us to get more grain."

Context is important here: The brothers are trying to convince Joseph that they are not spies and that they are honest men. They are demonstrating that they followed his instructions to the letter and that they are truthful in their dealings with him. This verse is part of their narrative to build trust and avoid punishment. They are subtly pleading their case and highlighting the difficult position Joseph put them in with their father.

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