Genesis 43:20 Meaning and Explanation
“And said, O sir, we came indeed down at the first time to buy food:”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The brothers begin explaining to the steward that their first visit was a legitimate grain-buying mission.
The Context of Genesis 43:20
The brothers explain that their first visit was to purchase grain during the famine.
What Does Genesis 43:20 Mean?
The brothers' opening appeal is to simple truth: they came to Egypt to buy grain, as any trader in a famine would. 'We came indeed down at the first time' is their statement of innocent intent. They are trying to establish that their original purpose was commercial and lawful, not fraudulent.
This explanation is defensive but dignified. They are not groveling; they are laying out facts. By beginning with the legitimacy of their first visit, they attempt to anchor the conversation in normalcy before addressing the mysterious return of the money.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 43:20
What does Genesis 43:20 mean?
The brothers begin explaining to the steward that their first visit was a legitimate grain-buying mission.
What is the context of Genesis 43:20?
The brothers explain that their first visit was to purchase grain during the famine.