And it came to pass, when we came to the inn, that we opened our sacks, and, behold, every man's money was in the mouth of his sack, our money in full weight: and we have brought it again in our hand.
GENESIS 43:21KJVWhat does Genesis 43:21 mean?
Genesis 43:21 describes how Joseph’s brothers, while staying at an inn on their journey, discovered that each man’s money was still in his sack, just as they had left Egypt. They are now explaining to Joseph’s steward that they have brought the money back with them, along with more, to make things right.
In this verse, Joseph’s brothers are speaking to the steward of Joseph’s house, trying to explain an earlier event that made them anxious. They had previously bought grain in Egypt, but later found their payment still in their sacks. Now, as they return to Egypt with Benjamin, they want to clear up any suspicion by returning the money and showing their honesty.
The Hebrew behind Genesis 43:21
- "Inn" (מָלוֹן, malon) refers to a lodging place or resting spot, which highlights that the brothers discovered the money not immediately, but after they had left the city and stopped for the night.
- "Money" (כֶּסֶף, keseph) is repeated in this verse, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation—the brothers are careful to mention that it was their full payment, not just a portion.
- "Weight" (מִשְׁקָל, mishqal) means the money was in the exact amount, showing they had not tried to cheat or shortchange anyone.
Why Genesis 43:21 matters
- This verse shows the brothers’ concern for honesty and their fear of being accused of theft, which is a key part of the tension in Joseph’s story.
- The detail about finding the money at the inn, rather than immediately, adds realism and shows their surprise and confusion.
- The brothers’ careful explanation sets up the next part of the story, where Joseph continues to test their character and intentions.