What is the meaning of Genesis 50:17? This is what you are to say to Joseph The brothers send a precise, rehearsed message through intermediaries, hoping to reach Joseph’s heart. • Their wording underlines intentional humility; they do not presume direct access (cf. Esther 4:4-5, where a mediator carries Mordecai’s plea to Esther). • By giving the messengers Joseph’s exact “script,” they aim to remove any chance of misunderstanding (compare Numbers 32:25-27, where the tribes carefully articulate their pledge). • The request shows they still fear Joseph’s authority even after years of safety in Egypt (Genesis 45:9-11). I beg you A tone of earnest entreaty colors the plea. • Begging language signals recognition of guilt and dependency (Psalm 51:1-2; Luke 15:18-19). • They appeal to Joseph’s mercy rather than claiming any right to forgiveness (Titus 3:5). Please forgive the transgression and sin of your brothers Three layers highlight the depth of their wrongdoing: • “Transgression” – a willful crossing of a known line (2 Samuel 12:13). • “Sin” – falling short of divine standard (Romans 3:23). • The brothers call the offense what it is, modeling true confession (1 John 1:9). For they did you wrong They acknowledge personal injury to Joseph, not merely abstract fault. • Confession names the victim; repentance must face the harm done (Matthew 5:23-24). • By owning “they did you wrong,” they show they are not excusing themselves or blaming circumstances (Genesis 37:18-28 chronicles the wrong in detail). So now, Joseph, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father The plea widens to covenant identity: • “Servants of the God of your father” reminds Joseph they share the same God of promise (Genesis 28:13-15). • They appeal to their common spiritual lineage, asking Joseph to act in harmony with God’s forgiving character (Exodus 34:6-7; Colossians 3:13). • “So now” presses for immediate action, recognizing the urgency of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 6:2). When their message came to him, Joseph wept Joseph’s tears reveal his heart. • He is moved by their repentance and perhaps saddened that fear still lingers between them after all he has done (Genesis 45:2, 14-15). • Weeping often accompanies deep mercy (Luke 19:41; John 11:35). • Joseph’s response foreshadows Christ’s compassionate forgiveness toward those who once rejected Him (Luke 23:34). summary Genesis 50:17 captures a genuine, multi-layered repentance and a gracious, tender response. The brothers finally articulate full ownership of their sin, appealing to Joseph’s mercy and their shared covenant God. Joseph’s tears signal a heart ready to forgive, illustrating how divine forgiveness flows through human agents and heals long-standing wounds (Ephesians 4:32). |
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