Genesis 50:16 (KJV)

What does Genesis 50:16 mean?

Genesis 50:16 describes how Joseph’s brothers sent a message to him, telling him that their father had given a command before he died. The brothers are appealing to Joseph by referencing their father’s wishes, hoping to influence how Joseph will treat them after Jacob’s death.

In this verse, Joseph’s brothers are worried that he might seek revenge for their past actions now that their father Jacob has died. They do not speak to Joseph directly but instead send a messenger with their request. The verse sets up the brothers’ attempt to secure forgiveness and mercy by invoking their father’s final instructions.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 50:16

• מַלְאָךְ (mal’akh, “messenger”): The word used here means a messenger or envoy, not necessarily an angel. The brothers choose to communicate indirectly, which shows their fear and uncertainty.
• צִוָּה (tsivvah, “command”): This word means to order or instruct. The brothers claim that Jacob gave Joseph a specific instruction, emphasizing the seriousness and authority of their request.
• לִפְנֵי (lifnei, “before”): This word means “in the presence of” or “before,” indicating that the command was supposedly given while Jacob was still alive, adding weight to their appeal.
• מוּת (muth, “died”): This is the standard word for dying. The timing—just before Jacob’s death—makes the supposed command feel urgent and final.

Why Genesis 50:16 matters

• This verse shows the brothers’ ongoing fear and guilt about how they treated Joseph years earlier, even after many years in Egypt.
• By referencing their father’s supposed command, the brothers reveal both their anxiety and their hope that Joseph’s respect for Jacob will protect them.
• The verse sets the stage for Joseph’s response, which highlights themes of forgiveness and reconciliation that are central to the closing chapters of Genesis.