Genesis 50:15 (KJV)

What does Genesis 50:15 mean?

Genesis 50:15 describes how Joseph’s brothers, after their father’s death, became afraid that Joseph might now seek revenge for the wrongs they had done to him in the past. They worried that Joseph would hate them and pay them back for all the harm they had caused him.

In this verse, Joseph’s brothers are speaking among themselves after Jacob, their father, has died. They remember how they had sold Joseph into slavery years earlier and are now anxious that, with their father gone, Joseph might no longer feel restrained from punishing them. The verse sets up the emotional tension and uncertainty the brothers feel about their relationship with Joseph and his intentions.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 50:15

• The word “peradventure” comes from אוּלַי (’ulay), which means “perhaps” or “maybe.” This shows the uncertainty and fear in the brothers’ minds—they do not know for sure what Joseph will do.
• The word “requite” comes from שׁוּב (shuv), which means “to return” or “to pay back.” Here, it suggests the brothers are specifically worried Joseph will repay them for their past evil.
• The word “evil” is רָעָה (ra‘ah), meaning “harm,” “evil,” or “wrong.” The brothers openly recognize the seriousness of what they did to Joseph.

Why Genesis 50:15 matters

• This verse highlights the lingering guilt and fear Joseph’s brothers feel, even after many years and despite Joseph’s earlier kindness to them.
• Genesis 50:15 sets the stage for Joseph’s response, which shows his character and the theme of forgiveness that runs through the end of Genesis.
• The verse clarifies that the brothers’ concern is not just about family dynamics but about justice and the consequences of their past actions.