Genesis 50:17

This is what you are to say to Joseph: I beg you, please forgive the transgression and sin of your brothers, for they did you wrong.' So now, Joseph, please forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of your father." When their message came to him, Joseph wept.

Study Bible

This is what you are to say to Joseph
This phrase sets the stage for a message of reconciliation. The brothers are instructed to convey a specific message to Joseph, indicating a formal and deliberate approach to seeking forgiveness. The Hebrew root for "say" (אָמַר, 'amar) often implies a declaration or command, suggesting the seriousness of the message. This reflects the cultural importance of spoken words in ancient times, where verbal agreements and confessions held significant weight.

I beg you, please forgive
The plea for forgiveness is heartfelt and urgent. The Hebrew word for "forgive" (נָשָׂא, nasa) means to lift, carry, or take away. This imagery suggests the removal of guilt or burden, highlighting the transformative power of forgiveness. In a historical context, forgiveness was not just a personal act but a communal necessity to restore harmony and peace.

the transgression and sin of your brothers
The use of both "transgression" (פֶּשַׁע, pesha) and "sin" (חַטָּאָה, chatta'ah) emphasizes the gravity of the brothers' actions. "Transgression" implies a rebellion or breach of trust, while "sin" denotes a moral failing or offense. This dual acknowledgment underscores the depth of their wrongdoing and the need for comprehensive forgiveness.

for they did you wrong
This phrase acknowledges the personal harm done to Joseph. The Hebrew root for "wrong" (רָעַע, ra'a) conveys the idea of evil or harm. By admitting their wrongdoing, the brothers take responsibility for their actions, which is a crucial step in the process of repentance and reconciliation.

So now, please forgive the transgression
The repetition of the plea for forgiveness reinforces its importance. The phrase "so now" indicates a sense of urgency and immediacy. It suggests that the time for reconciliation is at hand, and action must be taken to heal past wounds.

of the servants of the God of your father.”
By identifying themselves as "servants of the God of your father," the brothers appeal to a shared spiritual heritage. This reference to God (אֱלֹהִים, Elohim) and their father (Jacob) invokes a sense of familial and divine obligation. It highlights the belief that forgiveness is not just a personal act but a divine mandate, rooted in the covenantal relationship with God.

When their message came to him, Joseph wept
Joseph's weeping is a powerful emotional response, indicating the depth of his feelings. The Hebrew word for "wept" (בָּכָה, bakah) often conveys a sense of lamentation or deep sorrow. This reaction suggests that Joseph's tears are not just for the past hurt but also for the relief and healing that forgiveness brings. It reflects the biblical theme of reconciliation and the restoration of broken relationships through divine grace and mercy.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt. His account is one of forgiveness and God's providence.

2. Joseph's Brothers
They wronged Joseph by selling him into slavery, but later sought his forgiveness after their father's death.

3. Jacob (Israel)
The father of Joseph and his brothers, whose death prompted the brothers to seek Joseph's forgiveness.

4. Egypt
The land where Joseph rose to power and where the events of this chapter take place.

5. The Message of Forgiveness
The plea for forgiveness sent by Joseph's brothers, which reflects their fear and recognition of their wrongdoing.

Teaching Points

The Power of Forgiveness
Joseph's willingness to forgive his brothers demonstrates the transformative power of forgiveness. As believers, we are called to forgive others, reflecting God's grace in our lives.

God's Sovereignty and Providence
Joseph's account illustrates how God can use even the most painful circumstances for His purposes. Trusting in God's sovereignty can bring peace and perspective in difficult times.

Repentance and Reconciliation
The brothers' plea for forgiveness shows the importance of acknowledging wrongdoing and seeking reconciliation. True repentance is a step towards healing and restored relationships.

Emotional Response to Forgiveness
Joseph's weeping upon receiving the message highlights the deep emotional impact of forgiveness. It is a reminder that forgiveness can bring healing not only to relationships but also to our own hearts.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his brothers' plea for forgiveness reflect the character of God as seen in other parts of Scripture?

2. In what ways can we apply Joseph's example of forgiveness in our own lives, especially in situations where we have been deeply wronged?

3. How does understanding God's sovereignty, as seen in Joseph's life, help us trust Him in our own difficult circumstances?

4. What steps can we take to seek reconciliation with those we have wronged, and how does this align with biblical teachings on repentance?

5. How can the emotional aspect of forgiveness, as seen in Joseph's weeping, inform our understanding of the healing process in broken relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 6:14-15
Jesus teaches about the importance of forgiving others as God forgives us, which parallels Joseph's act of forgiveness.

Ephesians 4:32
Paul instructs believers to be kind and forgiving, just as God forgave us in Christ, echoing Joseph's forgiveness of his brothers.

Genesis 45:4-5
Earlier in Genesis, Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and forgives them, showing his understanding of God's plan.