Genesis 44:18

Old Testament Law (Torah) ASV (1901)

What does Genesis 44:18 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “Then Judah came near unto him, and said, Oh, my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord`s ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant; for thou art even as Pharaoh.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

Then Judah came near unto him, and said, Oh, my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord`s ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant; for thou art even as Pharaoh.
Genesis 44:18 — American Standard Version

Context — Genesis 44

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
18Then Judah came near unto him, and said, Oh, my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord`s ears, and let not thine anger burn against thy servant; for thou art even as Pharaoh.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“Then Judah came near unto him, etc.] Being the spokesman of his brethren, and the surety of Benjamin: he plucked up a spirit, put on courage, and drew nearer to the governor, and with much freedom and boldness, and in a very polite manner, addressed him: and said, O my lord, let thy servant, I pray thee, speak a word in my lord’s ears; not admit him to private audience, or suffer him to whisper something to him, but give him the hearing of a few words he had to say to him: and let not thine anger burn against thy servant; do not be displeased with his boldness, and the freedom he takes, but hear him patiently: for thou [art] even as Pharaoh; next, if not equal in power and authority with…”
Read attributed excerpt →
Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“- The Ten Brothers Were Tested Joseph has had the satisfaction of seeing his brother Benjamin safe and well. He has heard his brothers acknowledging their guilt concerning himself. He resolves to put their attachment to Benjamin, and the genuineness of their change of disposition, to a test that will at the same time expose Benjamin to no hazard. Genesis 44:1-5 And my cup. - Besides returning each man’s money as before, a silver cup of Joseph’s is put in Benjamin’s bag, after which, when daylight comes, they are dismissed. They are scarcely out of the town when Joseph’s steward is ordered to overtake them, and charge them with stealing the cup. “And whereby indeed he divineth.” Divining by…”
Read attributed excerpt →
Tyndale Open Study Notes
Tyndale House Publishers · Tyndale Open Study Notes · Modern study notes
“44:18-34 Judah made good on his promise to pay for Benjamin’s safety (43:8-10). His lengthy plea to be imprisoned in place of the lad (44:33) is one of the most moving acts of intercession in Scripture. It demonstrated Judah’s concern for their father and his willingness to give up everything for the sake of his brother. With this kind of integrity (see John 15:13), Judah showed himself to be a true leader, qualified to receive the blessing of the firstborn. Through him the kings of Israel would come (see Gen 49:10). • The brothers had fully repented, as expressed by Judah’s intercession. Because of their change, Joseph could make himself known to them (45:1-15) and arrange for the family to…”
Read attributed excerpt →

Related study paths

Sources and verification