Old Testament · Law

Genesis 43:20

Benjamin

“Please, sir,” they said, “we really did come down here the first time to buy food. Genesis 43:20 · Berean Standard Bible
What It Means

Genesis 43:20, in plain English

The brothers speak to the steward, earnestly explaining that they really did come just to buy food the first time they were in Egypt—they weren't trying to deceive anyone.

Why it's here

You're hearing genuine anxiety in their voice. They're trying to explain that they bought grain honestly the first time and aren't thieves or deceivers. They're confused about why they're being treated so specially and brought to an official's house, and they're desperate to clear up any misunderstanding.

Who's speaking

The brothers are making their case to Joseph's steward, trying to head off what they believe is coming.

Where it sits in the story

Their willingness to be honest and transparent—to assume good faith and try to clarify—shows their moral development. They're not angry or defensive; they're genuinely trying to make things right. This is exactly the condition of heart Joseph needs to see.

A Closer Look

The scholar's commentary

The brothers earnestly explain to the steward that their original visit was legitimate commercial activity, not theft, and appeal for consideration of their intentions.

Language and setting

Their petition—בִּאנוּ בִּשְׁנִית לִקְנוֹת־אֹכֶל ('we came down the second time to buy food')—represents their attempt to establish innocent intent and regular commercial practice. The address 'Please, sir' (בִּי אֲדוֹנִי, bi-adoni) employs the deferential language of those in vulnerable position. Their desperation to prove innocence indicates they recognize themselves as accused, even before accusation is formally lodged.

Voice

The brothers, addressing Joseph's steward

Significance

This verse culminates the brothers' movement from defensive anxiety toward direct assertion of integrity—a posture that will permit Joseph to eventually test and then reveal the transformation of their character since their betrayal of him years earlier.

In context

Genesis 43:18–22

18But the brothers were frightened that they had been taken to Joseph’s house. “We have been brought here because of the silver that was returned in our bags the first time,” they said. “They intend to overpower us and take us as slaves, along with our donkeys.”

19So they approached Joseph’s steward and spoke to him at the entrance to the house.

20“Please, sir,” they said, “we really did come down here the first time to buy food.

21But when we came to the place we lodged for the night, we opened our sacks and, behold, each of us found his silver in the mouth of his sack! It was the full amount of our silver, and we have brought it back with us.

22We have brought additional silver with us to buy food. We do not know who put our silver in our sacks.”

Read all of Genesis 43 — Joseph's brothers return to Egypt with the youngest. The table is set for a reckoning — and a revelation.

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