Genesis 44:21

Old Testament Law (Torah) ASV (1901)

What does Genesis 44:21 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “And thou saidst unto thy servants, Bring him down unto me, that I may set mine eyes upon him.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

And thou saidst unto thy servants, Bring him down unto me, that I may set mine eyes upon him.
Genesis 44:21 — American Standard Version

Context — Genesis 44

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
21And thou saidst unto thy servants, Bring him down unto me, that I may set mine eyes upon him.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“And thou saidst unto thy servants, bring him down unto me, etc.] Judah does not relate the reason of his order, which was to give proof that they were no spies, but as if Joseph designed to show favour to Benjamin, as undoubtedly he did: that I may set mine eyes upon him; not barely see him, as Aben Ezra interprets it, though that would be, and was, very desirable by him, and agreeable to him; but he desired to set his eyes upon him, not only for his own pleasure, but for the good of Benjamin, as the Targum of Jonathan adds; he intimated that he should receive him kindly, show favour unto him, and use him well: the Septuagint version is, “and I will take care of him”: Joseph’s brethren had…”
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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…”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification