Genesis 42:21

Genesis 42:21 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

Then they said to one another, “Surely we are being punished because of our brother. We saw his anguish when he pleaded with us, but we would not listen. That is why this distress has come upon us.”

King James Version KJV

¶ And they said one to another, We are verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us.

American Standard Version ASV

And they said one to another, We are verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the distress of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And they said to one another, Truly, we did wrong to our brother, for we saw his grief of mind, and we did not give ear to his prayers; that is why this trouble has come on us.

Free Bible Version FBV

“Clearly we're being punished for what we did to our brother,” they said to each other. “We watched him in agony pleading with us for mercy, but we refused to listen to him. That's why we're in all this trouble.”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

And they said one to another, We haue verily sinned against our brother, in that we sawe the anguish of his soule, when he besought vs, and we would not heare him: therefore is this trouble come vpon vs.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And they say one unto another, 'Verily we [are] guilty concerning our brother, because we saw the distress of his soul, in his making supplication unto us, and we did not hearken: therefore hath this distress come upon us.'

World English Bible WEB

They said to one another, “We are certainly guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the distress of his soul, when he begged us, and we wouldn’t listen. Therefore this distress has come upon us.”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

And they said one to another, We are verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And they talked one to another: We deserve to suffer these things, because we have sinned against our brother, seeing the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear: therefore is this affliction come upon us.

Translation for Translators T4T

They said to each other, “It is surely because of what we did to our younger brother that ◄we are being punished/God is punishing us►! We saw that he [SYN] was very distressed when he pleaded with us not to harm him. But we did not pay any attention to him, and that is why we are having this trouble!”

Plain English Version PEV

Then Joseph’s brothers talked to each other in their own language. They said, “You know, a long time ago, we made bad trouble for our brother Joseph. We chucked him into a big hole in the ground, and then we sold him to some men from the Midian tribe. At that time, we saw that he was really frightened, and he asked us strongly to be good to him, but we didn’t listen. That’s the reason why we’ve got this bad trouble now. God is punishing us for those things that we did to Joseph.”

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Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 42:21

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 42:21 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יֹּאמְר֞וּ אִ֣ישׁ אֶל אָחִ֗י/ו אֲבָל֮ אֲשֵׁמִ֣ים אֲנַחְנוּ֮ עַל אָחִי/נוּ֒ אֲשֶׁ֨ר רָאִ֜ינוּ צָרַ֥ת נַפְשׁ֛/וֹ בְּ/הִתְחַֽנְנ֥/וֹ אֵלֵ֖י/נוּ וְ/לֹ֣א שָׁמָ֑עְנוּ עַל כֵּן֙ בָּ֣אָה אֵלֵ֔י/נוּ הַ/צָּרָ֖ה הַ/זֹּֽאת

וַ/יֹּאמְר֞וּ ʼâmar H559 to say Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

אִ֣ישׁ ʼîysh H376 man N-ms

אֶל ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep

אָחִ֗י/ו ʼâch H251 brother N-ms | Suff

אֲבָל֮ ʼăbâl H61 truly Adv

אֲשֵׁמִ֣ים ʼâshêm H818 guilty Adj

אֲנַחְנוּ֮ ʼănachnûw H587 we Pron

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

אָחִי/נוּ֒ ʼâch H251 brother N-ms | Suff

אֲשֶׁ֨ר ʼăsher H834 which Rel

רָאִ֜ינוּ râʼâh H7200 Provider V-Qal-Perf-1cp

צָרַ֥ת tsârâh H6869 dearth N-fs

נַפְשׁ֛/וֹ nephesh H5315 soul N-cs | Suff

בְּ/הִתְחַֽנְנ֥/וֹ chânan H2603 be gracious Prep | V-Hithpael-Inf-a | Suff

אֵלֵ֖י/נוּ ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

וְ/לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

שָׁמָ֑עְנוּ shâmaʻ H8085 to hear V-Qal-Perf-1cp

עַל ʻal H5921 upon Prep

כֵּן֙ kên H3651 right Part

בָּ֣אָה bôwʼ H935 Lebo V-Qal-Perf-3fs

אֵלֵ֔י/נוּ ʼêl H413 to(wards) Prep | Suff

הַ/צָּרָ֖ה tsârâh H6869 dearth Art | N-fs

הַ/זֹּֽאת zôʼth H2063 this Art | Pron

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 42:21

וַ/יֹּאמְר֞וּ ʼâmar H559 "to say" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

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.

אִ֣ישׁ ʼîysh H376 "man" N-ms

The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.

Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)

Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.

אֶל ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep

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.

אָחִ֗י/ו ʼâch H251 "brother" N-ms | Suff

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a brother or male sibling, but it can also refer to a close relative, friend, or someone with a similar relationship. It is used to describe the bond between brothers, like the relationship between Cain and Abel in Genesis.

Definition: : male-sibling 1) brother 1a) brother of same parents 1b) half-brother (same father) 1c) relative, kinship, same tribe 1d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship) 1e) (fig.) of resemblance

Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other. Compare also the proper names beginning with 'Ah-' or 'Ahi-'. See also: Genesis 4:2; Genesis 42:13; Numbers 25:6.

אֲבָל֮ ʼăbâl H61 "truly" Adv

This Hebrew word means truly or surely, often used to emphasize a point. It appears in the Bible as 'but', 'indeed', or 'verily'.

Definition: 1) truly, verily, surely 2) but, however, howbeit 3) contrariwise, nay rather (neg.)

Usage: Occurs in 11 OT verses. KJV: but, indeed, nevertheless, verily. See also: Genesis 17:19; 2 Chronicles 1:4; Daniel 10:21.

אֲשֵׁמִ֣ים ʼâshêm H818 "guilty" Adj

This Hebrew word describes someone who is guilty and must offer a sacrifice to make things right with God, as seen in Leviticus. It emphasizes the need for atonement and forgiveness.

Definition: guilty, faulty (and obliged to offer a guilt-offering)

Usage: Occurs in 3 OT verses. KJV: one which is faulty, guilty. See also: Genesis 42:21; 2 Samuel 14:13; Ezra 10:19.

אֲנַחְנוּ֮ ʼănachnûw H587 "we" Pron

A Hebrew word for we or us, used for emphasis, like when Moses said we will follow God's commands, emphasizing the community's commitment.

Definition: we (first pers. pl. -usually used for emphasis)

Usage: Occurs in 115 OT verses. KJV: ourselves, us, we. See also: Genesis 13:8; 1 Chronicles 11:1; Psalms 20:8.

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

Definition: prep 1) upon, on the ground of, according to, on account of, on behalf of, concerning, beside, in addition to, together with, beyond, above, over, by, on to, towards, to, against 1a) upon, on the ground of, on the basis of, on account of, because of, therefore, on behalf of, for the sake of, for, with, in spite of, notwithstanding, concerning, in the matter of, as regards 1b) above, beyond, over (of excess) 1c) above, over (of elevation or pre-eminence) 1d) upon, to, over to, unto, in addition to, together with, with (of addition) 1e) over (of suspension or extension) 1f) by, adjoining, next, at, over, around (of contiguity or proximity) 1g) down upon, upon, on, from, up upon, up to, towards, over towards, to, against (with verbs of motion) 1h) to (as a dative)

Usage: Occurs in 4493 OT verses. KJV: above, according to(-ly), after, (as) against, among, and, [idiom] as, at, because of, beside (the rest of), between, beyond the time, [idiom] both and, by (reason of), [idiom] had the charge of, concerning for, in (that), (forth, out) of, (from) (off), (up-) on, over, than, through(-out), to, touching, [idiom] with. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 24:13; Genesis 41:33.

אָחִי/נוּ֒ ʼâch H251 "brother" N-ms | Suff

Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other. Compare also the proper names beginning with 'Ah-' or 'Ahi-'. See also: Genesis 4:2; Genesis 42:13; Numbers 25:6.

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.

רָאִ֜ינוּ râʼâh H7200 "Provider" V-Qal-Perf-1cp

The Hebrew word for provider means to see or look after, and is used to describe God's care for his people. It appears in various forms throughout the Bible, including in Genesis and other books.

Definition: (Lord will) Provide, cause to be seen. This name means to see, look at, inspect, look after

Usage: Occurs in 1206 OT verses. KJV: advise self, appear, approve, behold, [idiom] certainly, consider, discern, (make to) enjoy, have experience, gaze, take heed, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] joyfully, lo, look (on, one another, one on another, one upon another, out, up, upon), mark, meet, [idiom] be near, perceive, present, provide, regard, (have) respect, (fore-, cause to, let) see(-r, -m, one another), shew (self), [idiom] sight of others, (e-) spy, stare, [idiom] surely, [idiom] think, view, visions. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 41:41; Exodus 33:13.

צָרַ֥ת tsârâh H6869 "dearth" N-fs

A vexer is someone who causes trouble or distress, like a rival wife, used in the Bible to describe relationships or situations that cause anguish or affliction, as seen in the book of Genesis.

Definition: death, destitution

Usage: Occurs in 72 OT verses. KJV: adversary, adversity, affliction, anguish, distress, tribulation, trouble. See also: Genesis 35:3; Psalms 116:3; Psalms 9:10.

נַפְשׁ֛/וֹ nephesh H5315 "soul" N-cs | Suff

The Hebrew word for soul or living being, used in the Bible to describe the essence of a person or animal. It encompasses the ideas of life, breath, and vitality, and is translated as 'soul' or 'creature' in the KJV. This word is central to biblical concepts of humanity and existence.

Definition: 1) soul, self, life, creature, person, appetite, mind, living being, desire, emotion, passion 1a) that which breathes, the breathing substance or being, soul, the inner being of man 1b) living being 1c) living being (with life in the blood) 1d) the man himself, self, person or individual 1e) seat of the appetites 1f) seat of emotions and passions 1g) activity of mind 1g1) uncertain 1h) activity of the will 1h1) uncertain 1i) activity of the character 1i1) uncertain

Usage: Occurs in 683 OT verses. KJV: any, appetite, beast, body, breath, creature, [idiom] dead(-ly), desire, [idiom] (dis-) contented, [idiom] fish, ghost, [phrase] greedy, he, heart(-y), (hath, [idiom] jeopardy of) life ([idiom] in jeopardy), lust, man, me, mind, mortally, one, own, person, pleasure, (her-, him-, my-, thy-) self, them (your) -selves, [phrase] slay, soul, [phrase] tablet, they, thing, ([idiom] she) will, [idiom] would have it. See also: Genesis 1:20; Leviticus 26:43; Judges 18:25.

בְּ/הִתְחַֽנְנ֥/וֹ chânan H2603 "be gracious" Prep | V-Hithpael-Inf-a | Suff

This Hebrew word means to show kindness or favor, often by bending or stooping to help someone in need, as seen in the actions of God towards his people.

Definition: 1) to be gracious, show favour, pity 1a) (Qal) to show favour, be gracious 1b) (Niphal) to be pitied 1c) (Piel) to make gracious, make favourable, be gracious 1d) (Poel) to direct favour to, have mercy on 1e) (Hophal) to be shown favour, be shown consideration 1f) (Hithpael) to seek favour, implore favour

Usage: Occurs in 73 OT verses. KJV: beseech, [idiom] fair, (be, find, shew) favour(-able), be (deal, give, grant (gracious(-ly), intreat, (be) merciful, have (shew) mercy (on, upon), have pity upon, pray, make supplication, [idiom] very. See also: Genesis 33:5; Psalms 37:21; Psalms 4:2.

אֵלֵ֖י/נוּ ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

וְ/לֹ֣א lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

שָׁמָ֑עְנוּ shâmaʻ H8085 "to hear" V-Qal-Perf-1cp

To hear and listen is what this Hebrew word means, often implying attention and obedience. In Exodus and Deuteronomy, it is used when God speaks to the people, and they must listen and obey.

Definition: : hear v 1) to hear, listen to, obey 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to hear (perceive by ear) 1a2) to hear of or concerning 1a3) to hear (have power to hear) 1a4) to hear with attention or interest, listen to 1a5) to understand (language) 1a6) to hear (of judicial cases) 1a7) to listen, give heed 1a7a) to consent, agree 1a7b) to grant request 1a8) to listen to, yield to 1a9) to obey, be obedient 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be heard (of voice or sound) 1b2) to be heard of 1b3) to be regarded, be obeyed 1c) (Piel) to cause to hear, call to hear, summon 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to hear, tell, proclaim, utter a sound 1d2) to sound aloud (musical term) 1d3) to make proclamation, summon 1d4) to cause to be heard n m 2) sound

Usage: Occurs in 1072 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] attentively, call (gather) together, [idiom] carefully, [idiom] certainly, consent, consider, be content, declare, [idiom] diligently, discern, give ear, (cause to, let, make to) hear(-ken, tell), [idiom] indeed, listen, make (a) noise, (be) obedient, obey, perceive, (make a) proclaim(-ation), publish, regard, report, shew (forth), (make a) sound, [idiom] surely, tell, understand, whosoever (heareth), witness. See also: Genesis 3:8; Exodus 32:18; Deuteronomy 27:9.

עַל ʻal H5921 "upon" Prep

This Hebrew word means on or above something, like a physical object or a situation. It can also imply a sense of responsibility or accountability, as in being on behalf of someone.

כֵּן֙ kên H3651 "right" Part

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means 'so' or 'thus', often used to show agreement or confirmation, like in the book of Genesis. It can also mean 'rightly' or 'justly', as in doing something the correct way. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: adv adj 1) right, just, honest, true, veritable 1a) right, just, honest 1b) correct 1c) true, veritable

Usage: Occurs in 737 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] after that (this, -ward, -wards), as... as, [phrase] (for-) asmuch as yet, [phrase] be (for which) cause, [phrase] following, howbeit, in (the) like (manner, -wise), [idiom] the more, right, (even) so, state, straightway, such (thing), surely, [phrase] there (where) -fore, this, thus, true, well, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:7; Exodus 37:19; Judges 7:17.

בָּ֣אָה bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" V-Qal-Perf-3fs

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

אֵלֵ֔י/נוּ ʼêl H413 "to(wards)" Prep | Suff

הַ/צָּרָ֖ה tsârâh H6869 "dearth" Art | N-fs

A vexer is someone who causes trouble or distress, like a rival wife, used in the Bible to describe relationships or situations that cause anguish or affliction, as seen in the book of Genesis.

Definition: death, destitution

Usage: Occurs in 72 OT verses. KJV: adversary, adversity, affliction, anguish, distress, tribulation, trouble. See also: Genesis 35:3; Psalms 116:3; Psalms 9:10.

הַ/זֹּֽאת zôʼth H2063 "this" Art | Pron

This Hebrew word means this or that, often used to point out something specific. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 570 OT verses. KJV: hereby (-in, -with), it, likewise, the one (other, same), she, so (much), such (deed), that, therefore, these, this (thing), thus. See also: Genesis 2:23; Numbers 7:88; Judges 1:27.

Study Notes — Genesis 42:21

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Context
Cross References
Genesis 42:21 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 42:21
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 42:21
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 42:21
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 42:21
Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 42:21
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 42:21
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 42:21
Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 42:21
Sermons on Genesis 42:21

Context — Joseph’s Brothers Sent to Egypt

19If you are honest, leave one of your brothers in custody while the rest of you go and take back grain to relieve the hunger of your households. 20Then bring your youngest brother to me so that your words can be verified, that you may not die.” And to this they consented.

21Then they said to one another, “Surely we are being punished because of our brother. We saw his anguish when he pleaded with us, but we would not listen. That is why this distress has come upon us.”

22And Reuben responded, “Didn’t I tell you not to sin against the boy? But you would not listen. Now we must account for his blood!” 23They did not realize that Joseph understood them, since there was an interpreter between them.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Hosea 5:15	Then I will return to My place until they admit their guilt and seek My face; in their affliction they will earnestly seek Me.”
2	Mark 9:43–45	If your hand causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life crippled than to have two hands and go into hell, into the unquenchable fire. If your foot causes you to sin, cut it off. It is better for you to enter life lame than to have two feet and be thrown into hell.
3	Genesis 37:23–28	So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe—the robe of many colors he was wearing— and they took him and threw him into the pit. Now the pit was empty, with no water in it. And as they sat down to eat a meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were carrying spices, balm, and myrrh on their way down to Egypt. Then Judah said to his brothers, “What profit will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? Come, let us sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay a hand on him; for he is our brother, our own flesh.” And they agreed. So when the Midianite traders passed by, his brothers pulled Joseph out of the pit and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.
4	Job 36:8–9	And if men are bound with chains, caught in cords of affliction, then He tells them their deeds and how arrogantly they have transgressed.
5	Job 34:31–32	Suppose someone says to God, ‘I have endured my punishment; I will offend no more. Teach me what I cannot see; if I have done wrong, I will not do it again.’
6	Acts 19:18	Many who had believed now came forward, confessing and disclosing their deeds.
7	Proverbs 28:17	A man burdened by bloodguilt will flee into the Pit; let no one support him.
8	Proverbs 21:13	Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too shall cry out and receive no answer.
9	2 Samuel 12:13	Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the LORD.” “The LORD has taken away your sin,” Nathan replied. “You will not die.
10	Jeremiah 2:17	Have you not brought this on yourself by forsaking the LORD your God when He led you in the way?

Genesis 42:21 Summary

[This verse shows that the brothers are starting to feel bad about what they did to Joseph, and they're realizing that their actions have consequences. They saw how much pain they caused Joseph when they sold him into slavery, and now they're facing trouble themselves. This is a reminder that our actions can have a big impact on others, and that God sees everything we do (Psalm 33:13-15). The brothers' experience teaches us that it's never too late to acknowledge our mistakes and seek forgiveness, just like they did.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the brothers' conversation in Genesis 42:21?

The brothers' conversation in Genesis 42:21 shows that they are beginning to realize the consequences of their past actions, specifically their treatment of Joseph, as seen in the anguish they caused him (Genesis 42:21). This realization is a step towards repentance and forgiveness, as seen in other Bible stories such as the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32).

How does this verse relate to the concept of guilt and shame?

This verse highlights the brothers' feelings of guilt and shame for their past actions, which is a common theme throughout the Bible, such as in Psalm 51:3-4, where David confesses his sin and feels remorse for his actions.

What role does Reuben play in this conversation?

Reuben plays a significant role in this conversation, as he had previously tried to intervene on Joseph's behalf (Genesis 37:21-22) and now warns his brothers of the consequences of their actions, showing that he is taking responsibility for his part in the sin (Genesis 42:22).

How does this verse fit into the larger story of Joseph?

This verse is a pivotal moment in the story of Joseph, as it shows the brothers' gradual recognition of their sin and their growing understanding of God's sovereignty, which is a major theme throughout the story of Joseph (Genesis 45:5, Genesis 50:20).

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I have contributed to the suffering of others, and how can I make amends?
How do I respond when I am faced with the consequences of my actions, and what can I learn from the brothers' experience?
In what ways can I, like Reuben, take responsibility for my part in hurting others and work towards healing and restoration?
What are some areas in my life where I need to acknowledge my sin and seek forgiveness, just like the brothers in this verse?

Gill's Exposition on Genesis 42:21

And they said one to another,.... Before they went out of the prison, at least while in the presence of Joseph: we [are] verily guilty concerning our brother; meaning Joseph, whom they had sold for a

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 42:21

And he put them all together into ward three days. Put them all together into ward three days. Their confinement had been designed to bring them to salutary reflection.

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 42:21

This is the just punishment of that great wickedness, which though we could cover from men, yet we now see and feel was known to God, who is now reckoning with us for it. Thus Divine vengeance overtakes them, and conscience tortures them for a sin committed above twenty years before, and their affliction brings them to repentance. When he besought us: compare . Yet this passage is not mentioned in that history, . Learn hence, that the silence of the Scripture is no good argument that such or such a thing was not said or done, except in some special cases. Therefore is this distress come upon us; he is inexorable to us, as we were to him.

Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 42:21

Genesis 42:21 And they said one to another, We [are] verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us.Ver. 21. We are verily guilty, &c.] See here the force of conscience and fruit of affliction to bring old sins to a new reckoning. Conscience, though for a while still, and seemingly asleep, yet is faithful in recording, and fearful in accusing. It writes bitter things, and will article against the sinner in the evil day. Therefore, as Bishop Latimer took special heed to the placing of his words, in his examination before Bonner, when he heard the pen walking in the chimney behind the cloth, and describing whatsoever he said; so should we; since conscience is not only God’ s spy, but notary: and albeit it doth not always execute the acts of accusing, yet hath always the habit of it. And that we shall know when trouble overtakes us; then shall we feel those darts of the Almighty, dagging at the heart, and those arrows of his, drinking up the spirit. Daniel chose rather to be cast into the den of lions than to carry about a lion in his bosom - an enraged conscience. Act. and Mon.

Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 42:21

(21) We are verily guilty.—They had evidently expected that whatever suspicions might be aroused by their first appearance, all such ideas would disappear upon their explanation of themselves and their purpose. Instead of this they are thrown into prison, abandoned to their reflections for three days, and dismissed only upon the condition of their leaving one brother as a hostage for their coming again accompanied by Benjamin: and as they knew no reason for this, it would fill their minds with fear. But though they were now suffering unjustly, it brought back to their mind their former sin; and the fact that it was so fresh in their memories is a sign of the reality of their repentance.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 42:21

Verse 21. We are verily guilty] How finely are the office and influence of conscience exemplified in these words! It was about twenty-two years since they had sold their brother, and probably their conscience had been lulled asleep to the present hour. God combines and brings about those favourable circumstances which produce attention and reflection, and give weight to the expostulations of conscience. How necessary to hear its voice in time, for here it may be the instrument of salvation; but if not heard in this world, it must be heard in the next; and there, in association with the unquenchable fire, it will be the never-dying worm. Reader, has not thy sin as yet found thee out? Pray to God to take away the veil from thy heart, and give thee that deep sense of guilt which shall oblige thee to flee for refuge to the hope which is set before thee in the Gospel of Christ.

Cambridge Bible on Genesis 42:21

21. We are verily guilty] The words of Joseph’s brethren represent the vitality of conscience after a long interval of years. They have the traditional belief that calamity will overtake the guilty. Cf. the words of Elihu, Job 36:6-14. his soul] See note on Genesis 12:13. Cf. Genesis 27:4; Genesis 27:25. this distress] The same word is used by them to denote their present state of trouble and Joseph’s former agony of mind, when they threw him into the cistern to die. It is the law of retaliation, “distress” for “distress,” cf. Exodus 21:24. Joseph’s treatment works well; cf. Isaiah 26:16; Hosea 5:15.

Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 42:21

21. We are verily guilty — How the guilty conscience smites them now, and makes them see and feel in this trial a divine retribution!

Sermons on Genesis 42:21

	Sermon	Description
	Finishing the Course - 03 the Ministry of the Holy Spirit by Zac Poonen	In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being free from the opinions of men and instead being open to the influence of the Holy Spirit. He highlights how in the Ol
	(Genesis) Genesis 42:19-24 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joseph and his brothers from the book of Genesis. Joseph, who is now in a position of power in Egypt, tests his brothers to see
	Joseph Reminds Me of Jesus-05 by William MacDonald	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the need for people to give up their sins and choose Christ. He uses the analogy of chains of sin that bind individuals and urges them to ex
	Homily 3 on the Statues by St. John Chrysostom	John Chrysostom preaches about the departure of Flavian, Bishop of Antioch, on an embassy to the Emperor Theodosius, emphasizing the sacrifice and dedication of a true shepherd who
	Homily 12 on the Acts of the Apostles by St. John Chrysostom	John Chrysostom preaches on the story of Ananias and Sapphira, highlighting the severity of their sin of sacrilege and deception, leading to their tragic deaths as a result of thei
	Hosea #3 Ch. 4-5 Israel's Willful Ignorance by Chuck Missler	In this sermon on the book of Hosea, the speaker begins by highlighting the broken home of Israel as a result of their adulterous relationship with God. The focus then shifts to ch
	Dvd 16 the Time of Jacobs Trouble by Art Katz	This sermon delves into the prophetic insights regarding God's dealings with the Jewish people in the last days, focusing on the time of Jacob's trouble as foretold in Jeremiah 30.