Verse

Genesis 44:6

ESV When he overtook them, he spoke to them these words.
NIV When he caught up with them, he repeated these words to them.
NASB So he overtook them and spoke these words to them.
CSB When he overtook them, he said these words to them.
NLT When the palace manager caught up with the men, he spoke to them as he had been instructed.
KJV And he overtook them, and he spake unto them these same words.

What does Genesis 44:6 mean?

Joseph's 11 brothers have just begun their journey back to Canaan (Genesis 44:1–3) when they are overtaken by Joseph's steward (Genesis 44:4–5). The men still have not realized the influential governor is their own estranged brother (Genesis 42:8).

The steward accuses the men as instructed by his master, accusing them of evil and stealing a valuable silver cup. He mentions that the Egyptian governor—Joseph—uses this cup for "divination." This is the practice of seeking supernatural answers using common objects. Of course, Joseph had no need for this (Genesis 37:5–9; 41:25–28); he is reinforcing his brothers' view of him as an Egyptian vizier.

This news would have been horrifying (Genesis 44:7). Thinking their mission was over, they now find themselves right back in terrible danger. Once again, this turns out to be a test of their character.
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