Genesis 42:14
Genesis 42:14 in Multiple Translations
Then Joseph declared, “Just as I said, you are spies!
And Joseph said unto them, That is it that I spake unto you, saying, Ye are spies:
And Joseph said unto them, That is it that I spake unto you, saying, Ye are spies:
And Joseph said, It is as I said; you have come with some secret purpose;
“As I said before, you're spies!” Joseph declared.
Againe Ioseph sayde vnto them, This is it that I spake vnto you, saying, Ye are spies.
And Joseph saith unto them, 'This [is] that which I have spoken unto you, saying, Ye [are] spies,
Joseph said to them, “It is like I told you, saying, ‘You are spies!’
And Joseph said to them, That is what I spoke to you, saying, Ye are spies:
He saith: This is it that I said: You are spies.
Joseph replied, “You are lying! I think it is just as I told you. You are spies!
But Joseph said, “Stop talking, you mob. I know for sure that you are my enemies.
Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 42:14
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Genesis 42:14 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר
אֲלֵ/הֶ֖ם
יוֹסֵ֑ף
ה֗וּא
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
דִּבַּ֧רְתִּי
אֲלֵ/כֶ֛ם
לֵ/אמֹ֖ר
מְרַגְּלִ֥ים
אַתֶּֽם
וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
אֲלֵ/הֶ֖ם
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep | Suff
יוֹסֵ֑ף
Yôwçêph
H3130
Joseph
N-proper
ה֗וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
he/she/it
Pron
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
ʼăsher
H834
which
Rel
דִּבַּ֧רְתִּי
dâbar
H1696
to speak
V-Piel-Perf-1cs
אֲלֵ/כֶ֛ם
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep | Suff
לֵ/אמֹ֖ר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
מְרַגְּלִ֥ים
râgal
H7270
to spy
V-Piel
אַתֶּֽם
ʼattâh
H859
you(m.s.)
Pron
Hebrew Word Study
Select any word above to explore its original meaning, root, and usage across Scripture.
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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 42:14
וַ/יֹּ֥אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
אֲלֵ/הֶ֖ם
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
יוֹסֵ֑ף
Yôwçêph
H3130
"Joseph"
N-proper
Joseph means Jehovah has added, a name given to several Israelites, including the son of Jacob and Rachel. Joseph was a significant figure in the book of Genesis and the story of his brothers. He became a leader in Egypt.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.12.14 § Joseph = "Jehovah has added" 1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel 2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies 3) a son of Asaph 4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: Joseph. Compare H3084 (יְהוֹסֵף). See also: Genesis 30:24; Genesis 47:5; Psalms 77:16.
ה֗וּא
hûwʼ
H1931
"he/she/it"
Pron
This word is a pronoun meaning 'he', 'she', or 'it', used to refer to a person or thing. It is used in the Bible to emphasize a subject or make it clear who is being talked about.
Definition: pron 3p s 1) he, she, it 1a) himself (with emphasis) 1b) resuming subj with emphasis 1c) (with minimum emphasis following predicate) 1d) (anticipating subj) 1e) (emphasising predicate) 1f) that, it (neuter) demons pron 2) that (with article)
Usage: Occurs in 1693 OT verses. KJV: he, as for her, him(-self), it, the same, she (herself), such, that (...it), these, they, this, those, which (is), who. See also: Genesis 2:11; Genesis 32:19; Exodus 21:3.
אֲשֶׁ֨ר
ʼăsher
H834
"which"
Rel
This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.
Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when
Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.
דִּבַּ֧רְתִּי
dâbar
H1696
"to speak"
V-Piel-Perf-1cs
To speak or communicate, like God speaking to Moses in Exodus or a king commanding his people. It can also mean to promise or warn someone.
Definition: : speak/tell/command 1) to speak, declare, converse, command, promise, warn, threaten, sing 1a) (Qal) to speak 1b) (Niphal) to speak with one another, talk 1c) (Piel) 1c1) to speak 1c2) to promise 1d) (Pual) to be spoken 1e) (Hithpael) to speak 1f) (Hiphil) to lead away, put to flight
Usage: Occurs in 1049 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, bid, command, commune, declare, destroy, give, name, promise, pronounce, rehearse, say, speak, be spokesman, subdue, talk, teach, tell, think, use (entreaties), utter, [idiom] well, [idiom] work. See also: Genesis 8:15; Exodus 12:25; Leviticus 23:9.
אֲלֵ/כֶ֛ם
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep | Suff
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
לֵ/אמֹ֖ר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
מְרַגְּלִ֥ים
râgal
H7270
"to spy"
V-Piel
This verb means to spy or explore a place, like Moses sending scouts to Canaan in Numbers 13:2. It can also mean to slander or gossip about someone, as warned against in Proverbs 11:13.
Definition: 1) to go on foot, spy out, foot it, go about, walk along, move the feet 1a) (Qal) to be a tale-bearer, slander, go about 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to slander 1b2) to go about as explorer, spy 1c) (Tiphel) to teach to walk Also means: tir.gal (תִּרְגַּל "to teach" H8637)
Usage: Occurs in 24 OT verses. KJV: backbite, search, slander, (e-) spy (out), teach to go, view. See also: Genesis 42:9; Joshua 6:25; Psalms 15:3.
אַתֶּֽם
ʼattâh
H859
"you(m.s.)"
Pron
You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.
Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)
Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.
Study Notes — Genesis 42:14
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Genesis 42:14 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Genesis 42:14
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 42:14
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 42:14
- Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 42:14
- Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 42:14
- Cambridge Bible on Genesis 42:14
- Sermons on Genesis 42:14
Context — Joseph’s Brothers Sent to Egypt
12“No,” he told them. “You have come to see if our land is vulnerable.”
13But they answered, “Your servants are twelve brothers, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan. The youngest is now with our father, and one is no more.”
14Then Joseph declared, “Just as I said, you are spies!
15And this is how you will be tested: As surely as Pharaoh lives, you shall not leave this place unless your youngest brother comes here. 16Send one of your number to get your brother; the rest of you will be confined so that the truth of your words may be tested. If they are untrue, then as surely as Pharaoh lives, you are spies!”Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Matthew 15:21–28 | Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the district of Tyre and Sidon. And a Canaanite woman from that region came to Him, crying out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is miserably possessed by a demon.” But Jesus did not answer a word. So His disciples came and urged Him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.” He answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” The woman came and knelt before Him. “Lord, help me!” she said. But Jesus replied, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and toss it to the dogs.” “Yes, Lord,” she said, “even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their master’s table.” “O woman,” Jesus answered, “your faith is great! Let it be done for you as you desire.” And her daughter was healed from that very hour. |
| 2 | Job 13:24 | Why do You hide Your face and consider me as Your enemy? |
| 3 | Genesis 42:9–11 | Joseph remembered his dreams about them and said, “You are spies! You have come to see if our land is vulnerable.” “Not so, my lord,” they replied. “Your servants have come to buy food. We are all sons of one man. Your servants are honest men, not spies.” |
| 4 | Job 19:11 | His anger burns against me, and He counts me among His enemies. |
Genesis 42:14 Summary
In this verse, Joseph is testing his brothers to see if they are telling the truth. He accuses them of being spies, which means he thinks they might be in Egypt to gather information and hurt the country. Joseph wants to know if his brothers have changed and if they are trustworthy, as we see in Genesis 42:15-16. This story teaches us to be careful and wise when dealing with others, and to always try to do what is right and fair, as taught in Proverbs 10:9.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Joseph accuse his brothers of being spies?
Joseph accused his brothers of being spies because he wanted to test their character and see if they had changed since he was sold into slavery, as seen in Genesis 37:23-28. This test was also a way for Joseph to protect himself and his position in Egypt.
Was Joseph being unfair to his brothers by accusing them of spying?
Joseph's accusation was not unfair, given the circumstances. As a high-ranking official in Egypt, it was his duty to be cautious and protect the interests of Pharaoh, as stated in Genesis 41:41. His actions were also motivated by a desire to reveal the truth about his brothers and their intentions.
How did Joseph's brothers respond to the accusation of being spies?
Joseph's brothers responded by explaining their situation and telling the truth about their family, as seen in Genesis 42:13. They also showed a willingness to cooperate with Joseph and prove their innocence.
What can we learn from Joseph's actions in this verse?
We can learn from Joseph's example the importance of discernment and caution when dealing with others, especially in situations where trust is uncertain, as taught in Proverbs 22:3. We can also see the value of testing and proving the character of those around us, as demonstrated in 1 Thessalonians 5:21.
Reflection Questions
- What would I do if I were in Joseph's position, and how would I handle the situation with my brothers?
- How can I apply the principle of discernment and caution in my own relationships and interactions with others?
- What are some ways that I can test and prove the character of those around me, and what are the potential benefits and risks of doing so?
- How can I balance the need to protect myself and my interests with the need to show kindness and compassion to others, as seen in Joseph's actions?
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 42:14
And Joseph said unto them, that [is it] that I spake unto you, saying, ye [are] spies.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 42:14
And Joseph remembered the dreams which he dreamed of them, and said unto them, Ye are spies; to see the nakedness of the land ye are come. Ye are spies , [ mªragªliym (H7270)] - ye are footing it; ye are traversing the country.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 42:14
This justifies my accusation; for it is not probable that one man should have so many sons, all grown up and living together in one family, and that he should expose them all to the perils of such a journey.
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 42:14
Genesis 42:14 And Joseph said unto them, That [is it] that I spake unto you, saying, Ye [are] spies:Ver. 14. That is it that I spake unto you.] He lays it hard to them still: as who should say, The longer I hear you, the worse I like you; ere while ye said, ye were ten brethren of you: now you acknowledge two more: liars had need to have good memories, &c. Be we as jealous of Satan, and as watchful against his wiles, when he comes to set out the nakedness of our souls; that where the hedge is lowest, this beast may leap over; watch him, I say, and "learn out his haunts," for we have heard and felt that he is very subtle; as Saul said of David, 1 Samuel 23:22. Mendacem oportet esse memorem.
Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 42:14
(14) That is it . . . —Joseph persists in his charge, because, besides the information which he gained, he also wished to get Benjamin into his power, that he might have him with him. As for his brethren, he had probably as yet no settled purpose, but naturally he would feel great indignation at the treatment he had experienced at their hands, and might not be unwilling to give them some degree of punishment.
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 42:14
14. That is it that I spake] Joseph seems to say that their claim to be all the sons of one man is improbable and suspicious. If these suspicions are to be removed, their statements must be verified. Their statement was either the needless embroidery of a falsehood, or it was a detail of actual life that could easily be proved. Joseph’s real object is to find out about Benjamin, whether he was alive, and well treated by his brothers. It is a delicate touch in the story, that he abstains from cross questioning them about the brother that “is not.”
Sermons on Genesis 42:14
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
|
(Grace Baptist) Finding God's Will by Bill McLeod | In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of being called to preach and the fear he initially felt. Despite his reluctance, he eventually accepted the call and pre |
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(Demonology) Powers by Willie Mullan | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Job from the Bible. He highlights how the devil tried to curse God by causing immense suffering to Job, including the death of h |
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Faith by Les Wheeldon | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the presence of Jesus and the wonders that happen wherever he goes. He highlights the belief that even as a child, Jesus brought joy and wond |
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Faith Victorious by C.H. Spurgeon | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of external rituals and ceremonial practices in worship. He emphasizes that true defilement before God is not a matter of externals |
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Extraordinary Faith by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of vicarious praying and extraordinary faith. He uses the story of four men who bring a paralyzed man to Jesus by digging a hole i |
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The Secret and Strength of Revival Praying by Ian Paisley | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the power of faith and its ability to overcome any obstacle. He uses the story of a woman who approached Jesus, despite being from an alien |
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7 Important Facts About Faith by Shane Idleman | This sermon delves into the story of the Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:21, highlighting seven important facts about faith. It emphasizes the need to align faith with truth, the sig |