Genesis 44:22
Genesis 44:22 in Multiple Translations
So we said to my lord, ‘The boy cannot leave his father. If he were to leave, his father would die.’
And we said unto my lord, The lad cannot leave his father: for if he should leave his father, his father would die.
And we said unto my lord, The lad cannot leave his father: for if he should leave his father, his father would die.
And we said to my lord, His father will not let him go; for if he went away his father would come to his death.
We told you, ‘The boy can't leave his father; if he did, his father would die.’
And we answered my lord, The childe can not depart from his father: for if he leaue his father, his father would die.
and we say unto my lord, The youth is not able to leave his father, when he hath left his father, then he hath died;
We said to my lord, ‘The boy can’t leave his father, for if he should leave his father, his father would die.’
And we said to my lord, The lad cannot leave his father; for if he should leave his father, his father would die.
We suggested to my lord: The boy cannot leave his father: for if he leave him, he will die.
We said to you, ‘No, we cannot do that, because the boy cannot leave his father. If he leaves his father, his father will die from sorrow.’
But we said, ‘Sir, we can’t take that young man away from his father. If we do that, his father will be so sad that he will die.’
Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 44:22
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 44:22 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/נֹּ֨אמֶר֙
אֶל
אֲדֹנִ֔/י
לֹא
יוּכַ֥ל
הַ/נַּ֖עַר
לַ/עֲזֹ֣ב
אֶת
אָבִ֑י/ו
וְ/עָזַ֥ב
אֶת
אָבִ֖י/ו
וָ/מֵֽת
וַ/נֹּ֨אמֶר֙
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cp
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
אֲדֹנִ֔/י
ʼâdôwn
H113
lord
N-ms | Suff
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Part
יוּכַ֥ל
yâkôl
H3201
be able
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
הַ/נַּ֖עַר
naʻar
H5288
youth
Art | N-ms
לַ/עֲזֹ֣ב
ʻâzab
H5800
Forsaken
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
אָבִ֑י/ו
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms | Suff
וְ/עָזַ֥ב
ʻâzab
H5800
Forsaken
Conj | V-Qal-3ms
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM
אָבִ֖י/ו
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms | Suff
וָ/מֵֽת
mûwth
H4191
to die
Conj | V-Qal-3ms
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 44:22
וַ/נֹּ֨אמֶר֙
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-1cp
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.
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.
אֲדֹנִ֔/י
ʼâdôwn
H113
"lord"
N-ms | Suff
The Hebrew word ʼâdôwn refers to a lord or master, and can be used to describe human leaders or God. It emphasizes the person's power and control over others or things, and is often translated as lord or master.
Definition: 1) firm, strong, lord, master 1a) lord, master 1a1) reference to men 1a1a) superintendent of household, of affairs 1a1b) master 1a1c) king 1a2) reference to God 1a2a) the Lord God 1a2b) Lord of the whole earth 1b) lords, kings 1b1) reference to men 1b1a) proprietor of hill of Samaria 1b1b) master 1b1c) husband 1b1d) prophet 1b1e) governor 1b1f) prince 1b1g) king 1b2) reference to God 1b2a) Lord of lords (probably = "thy husband, Yahweh") 1c) my lord, my master 1c1) reference to men 1c1a) master 1c1b) husband 1c1c) prophet 1c1d) prince 1c1e) king 1c1f) father 1c1g) Moses 1c1h) priest 1c1i) theophanic angel 1c1j) captain 1c1k) general recognition of superiority 1c2) reference to God 1c2a) my Lord, my Lord and my God 1c2b) Adonai (parallel with Yahweh)
Usage: Occurs in 281 OT verses. KJV: lord, master, owner. Compare also names beginning with 'Adoni-'. See also: Genesis 18:3; 1 Samuel 25:30; 2 Kings 6:5.
לֹא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
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.
יוּכַ֥ל
yâkôl
H3201
"be able"
V-Qal-Imperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to be able or have power, used in various contexts, such as overcoming or enduring, and is translated as 'be able' or 'have power' in the KJV.
Definition: 1) to prevail, overcome, endure, have power, be able 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be able, be able to gain or accomplish, be able to endure, be able to reach 1a2) to prevail, prevail over or against, overcome, be victor 1a3) to have ability, have strength Aramaic equivalent: ye.khel (יְכִל "be able" H3202)
Usage: Occurs in 182 OT verses. KJV: be able, any at all (ways), attain, can (away with, (-not)), could, endure, might, overcome, have power, prevail, still, suffer. See also: Genesis 13:6; 1 Kings 14:4; Psalms 13:5.
הַ/נַּ֖עַר
naʻar
H5288
"youth"
Art | N-ms
In the original Hebrew, this word means a young person, either a boy or a girl, from infancy to adolescence. It is used to describe the servants and attendants who worked for kings and other important people in the Old Testament, like King David's servants.
Definition: 1) a boy, lad, servant, youth, retainer 1a) boy, lad, youth 1b) servant, retainer
Usage: Occurs in 221 OT verses. KJV: babe, boy, child, damsel (from the margin), lad, servant, young (man). See also: Genesis 14:24; 1 Samuel 25:5; Psalms 37:25.
לַ/עֲזֹ֣ב
ʻâzab
H5800
"Forsaken"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
Forsaken means to loosen or relinquish something, often implying abandonment. In the Bible, the word appears in Psalm 22:1, where David cries out to God, saying my God, why have you forsaken me. The term signifies a sense of desperation and isolation.
Definition: This name means to restore, repair Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 206 OT verses. KJV: commit self, fail, forsake, fortify, help, leave (destitute, off), refuse, [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 2:24; Nehemiah 5:10; Psalms 9:11.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
אָבִ֑י/ו
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
וְ/עָזַ֥ב
ʻâzab
H5800
"Forsaken"
Conj | V-Qal-3ms
Forsaken means to loosen or relinquish something, often implying abandonment. In the Bible, the word appears in Psalm 22:1, where David cries out to God, saying my God, why have you forsaken me. The term signifies a sense of desperation and isolation.
Definition: This name means to restore, repair Another name of ye.ru.sha.laim (יְרוּשָׁלִַ֫ם, יְרוּשְׁלֵם "Jerusalem" H3389)
Usage: Occurs in 206 OT verses. KJV: commit self, fail, forsake, fortify, help, leave (destitute, off), refuse, [idiom] surely. See also: Genesis 2:24; Nehemiah 5:10; Psalms 9:11.
אֶת
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
אָבִ֖י/ו
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
וָ/מֵֽת
mûwth
H4191
"to die"
Conj | V-Qal-3ms
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to die, either literally or as a punishment, and is used in books like Genesis and Exodus. It can also mean to perish or be killed. This concept is seen in the story of Adam and Eve, where death enters the world as a result of sin.
Definition: 1) to die, kill, have one executed 1a)(Qal) 1a1) to die 1a2) to die (as penalty), be put to death 1a3) to die, perish (of a nation) 1a4) to die prematurely (by neglect of wise moral conduct) 1b) (Polel) to kill, put to death, dispatch 1c) (Hiphil) to kill, put to death 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be killed, be put to death 1d1a) to die prematurely
Usage: Occurs in 695 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, [idiom] crying, (be) dead (body, man, one), (put to, worthy of) death, destroy(-er), (cause to, be like to, must) die, kill, necro(-mancer), [idiom] must needs, slay, [idiom] surely, [idiom] very suddenly, [idiom] in (no) wise. See also: Genesis 2:17; Exodus 21:18; Numbers 35:21.
Study Notes — Genesis 44:22
Show Verse Quote Highlights
Context — Judah Pleads for Benjamin
20And we answered, ‘We have an elderly father and a younger brother, the child of his old age. The boy’s brother is dead. He is the only one of his mother’s sons left, and his father loves him.’
21Then you told your servants, ‘Bring him down to me so that I can see him for myself.’
22So we said to my lord, ‘The boy cannot leave his father. If he were to leave, his father would die.’
23But you said to your servants, ‘Unless your younger brother comes down with you, you will not see my face again.’ 24Now when we returned to your servant my father, we relayed your words to him.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Genesis 44:30 | So if the boy is not with us when I return to your servant, and if my father, whose life is wrapped up in the boy’s life, |
| 2 | Genesis 42:38 | But Jacob replied, “My son will not go down there with you, for his brother is dead, and he alone is left. If any harm comes to him on your journey, you will bring my gray hair down to Sheol in sorrow.” |
Genesis 44:22 Summary
In Genesis 44:22, the brothers are explaining to Joseph that Benjamin cannot leave their father, Jacob, because it would cause him great distress and potentially even death. This shows how much Jacob loves and relies on Benjamin, and the brothers are trying to protect their family. This verse teaches us about the importance of considering how our actions might affect those around us, just like the brothers did (as also seen in Genesis 37:35). By being thoughtful and compassionate, we can build stronger relationships and show love to those around us, as Jesus teaches us to do in Matthew 22:39.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the brothers' concern for their father's well-being in Genesis 44:22?
The brothers are highlighting the deep bond between Jacob and his son Benjamin, as seen in Genesis 44:20, and expressing their fear of the potential consequences of separating them, as Jacob had previously experienced with the loss of Joseph.
Why did the brothers feel it necessary to reiterate their father's love for Benjamin?
The brothers wanted to convey the gravity of the situation to Joseph, emphasizing that Benjamin is the only remaining son of his mother, Rachel, and that his father's love for him is profound, as mentioned in Genesis 44:20.
How does this verse demonstrate the brothers' character and loyalty to their family?
This verse showcases the brothers' compassion, loyalty, and commitment to their family, particularly their father and younger brother, reflecting the importance of family bonds and responsibilities, as also seen in Genesis 37:35.
What can we learn from the brothers' response to Joseph's request in Genesis 44:22?
We can learn the value of empathy, understanding, and effective communication in relationships, as the brothers attempt to convey their concerns and negotiate a solution that considers their father's well-being, much like Jesus teaches us to love and care for one another in Matthew 22:39.
Reflection Questions
- How can I demonstrate a similar level of compassion and loyalty to my own family, just as the brothers did in this verse?
- What are some situations in my life where I need to consider the potential consequences of my actions on those around me, as the brothers did in Genesis 44:22?
- In what ways can I apply the brothers' approach to communication, by expressing my concerns and needs in a clear and respectful manner, to my relationships with others?
- How can I balance my own needs and desires with the needs and well-being of those around me, as the brothers attempted to do in this verse?
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 44:22
And we said unto my lord, the lad cannot leave his father,.... That is, his father will not be willing to part with him: for [if] he should leave his father, [his father] would die; with grief and
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 44:22
And he said, God forbid that I should do so: but the man in whose hand the cup is found, he shall be my servant; and as for you, get you up in peace unto your father. No JFB commentary on these verses.
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 44:22
Genesis 44:22 And we said unto my lord, The lad cannot leave his father: for [if] he should leave his father, [his father] would die. Ver. 22.
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 44:22
22. And we said, &c.] The substance of this verse expresses more than Genesis 42:20 (E). The expostulation here mentioned is not there recorded.
Sermons on Genesis 44:22
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Genesis) Genesis 44:16-17 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the 44th chapter of Genesis, which tells the story of Joseph and his brothers. The brothers have come to Egypt to buy corn, and Joseph tests |
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(Genesis) Genesis 44:18-34 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the story of Judah pleading for his brother Benjamin's life in the presence of Joseph. The speaker highlights how Judah's confession and plea |
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(Genesis) Genesis 42:29-38 by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Jacob and his sons in the land of Canaan. The brothers return to their father and tell him about their encounter with the man w |
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(Genesis) Genesis 42 Introduction by J. Vernon McGee | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the story of Joseph and his brothers during the time of famine in Egypt. Jacob, their father, sends 10 of his sons to Egypt to buy corn, but h |