Genesis 44

5 he divineth. Probably a popular mode of expressing Joseph’s superhuman wisdom; or perhaps a phrase intended to increase their alarm. Ancient writers say that the Egyptians divined by cups, observing the light of the ripples on the surface, or of gold jewels and other things thrown in, as well as the way in which such articles arranged themselves. But Joseph had a better guide (xli. 16). Cp. ver. 15.

7 these words. “Such words as these” (R.V.); a respectful phrase.

18 and said. The simple earnestness of truth made Judah’s pleading eloquent, and well fitted to affect Joseph’s heart.

28 the one. Joseph thus learns his own story from the unconscious speaker.

33 a bondman. It was Judah who proposed selling Joseph as a slave (xxxvii. 27); now he offers himself to undergo the same lot.