Genesis 45:20

Old Testament Law (Torah) ASV (1901)

What does Genesis 45:20 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “Also regard not your stuff; for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours.” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

Also regard not your stuff; for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours.
Genesis 45:20 — American Standard Version

Context — Genesis 45

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
20Also regard not your stuff; for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours.

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“Also regard not your stuff, etc.] Or “your vessels” f1802, utensils, household goods; he would not have them to be concerned if they could not bring all their goods with them, but were obliged to leave some behind, and which, because of the distance of the way and difficulty of the road, lying through sandy deserts, could not well be brought, since there was enough to be had in the land of Egypt; therefore, as it may be rendered, “let not your eye spare” f1803, or “pity”: do not be grieved at it, or say it is a pity to leave these good things behind. Some render and explain the words just the reverse, “leave nothing of your household goods” f1804; bring all away with you, as if he would not…”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“- Joseph Made Himself Known to His Brethren 10. גשׁן gôshen, Goshen, Gesem (Arabias related perhaps to גשׁם geshem “rain, shower”), a region on the borders of Egypt and Arabia, near the gulf of Suez. The appeal of Judah is to Joseph irresistible. The repentance of his brothers, and their attachment to Benjamin, have been demonstrated in the most satisfactory manner. This is all that Joseph sought. It is evident, throughout the whole narrative, that he never aimed at exercising any supremacy over his brothers. As soon as he has obtained an affecting proof of the right disposition of his brothers, he conceals himself no longer. And the speech of Judah, in which, no doubt, his brothers…”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification