Genesis 43:7 Meaning and Explanation
“And they said, The man asked us straitly of our state, and of our kindred, saying, Is your father yet alive? have ye another brother? and we told him according to the tenor of these words: could we certainly know that he would say, Bring your brother down?”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The brothers explain that they answered Joseph's questions truthfully, unable to anticipate his demand for Benjamin.
The Context of Genesis 43:7
The brothers justify their disclosure by explaining Joseph's direct questioning.
What Does Genesis 43:7 Mean?
The brothers defend themselves by explaining how Joseph's interrogation unfolded. 'Asked us straitly' means he pressed them hard with direct questions—about their family status, whether their father lived, and whether they had another brother. Under such specific inquiry, they answered honestly because they could not foresee where it would lead.
Their final question—'could we certainly know that he would say, Bring your brother down?'—is almost plaintive. They are saying they acted without foreknowledge of the consequence. They told the truth under questioning, not realizing this administrator's words would become a condition for survival.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 43:7
What does Genesis 43:7 mean?
The brothers explain that they answered Joseph's questions truthfully, unable to anticipate his demand for Benjamin.
What is the context of Genesis 43:7?
The brothers justify their disclosure by explaining Joseph's direct questioning.