Genesis 43:20 (KJV)

What does Genesis 43:20 mean?

Genesis 43:20 shows Joseph’s brothers respectfully addressing the steward of Joseph’s house, explaining that they had previously come to Egypt to buy food. The verse sets the stage for their attempt to clarify their intentions and address any misunderstandings about their earlier visit.

In this scene, Joseph’s brothers are speaking to the Egyptian official in charge of Joseph’s household. They are anxious because they have been brought to the house and fear they are in trouble over the money that was found in their sacks after their first trip. Their words are careful and polite, showing their concern to clear up any suspicion and to explain that they came simply as buyers of food during the famine.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 43:20

• "said" (אָמַר, 'amar): This is the common Hebrew word for "to say" or "to speak," highlighting that the brothers are initiating a careful conversation.
• "sir" (אֲדֹנִי, 'adoni): This term is a respectful way to address someone in authority, showing the brothers’ humility and deference to the steward.
• "indeed down" (יָרֹד יָרַדְנוּ, yarad yaradnu): The repetition emphasizes that they truly did come down to Egypt before, underlining their honesty and the fact that this is not their first visit.
• "time" (פַּעַם, pa‘am): This word refers to an earlier occasion, making it clear they are talking about a previous journey.
• "buy" (שָׁבַר, shavar): This verb means "to buy" or "to purchase," specifically used here for buying grain or food.
• "food" (לֶחֶם, lechem): While often translated as "bread," in this context it means food or provisions in general, which was the brothers’ purpose for coming to Egypt.

Why Genesis 43:20 matters

• Genesis 43:20 helps clear up any suspicion about the brothers’ motives, showing that they are not spies or troublemakers but simply people seeking food during a famine.
• The verse highlights the respectful and cautious approach the brothers take, which reflects their anxiety and the seriousness of their situation in a foreign land.
• This explanation sets up the following events, where the steward reassures them and the story moves toward Joseph’s eventual revelation of his identity.