King James Version
Genesis 42:23 in the King James Version says “And they knew not that Joseph understood them; for he spake unto them by an interpreter. he spake: Heb. an interpreter w...” — study this verse from Genesis chapter 42 with commentary, cross-references, and original Hebrew word analysis.
“And they knew not that Joseph understood them; for he spake unto them by an interpreter. he spake: Heb. an interpreter was between them”
Genesis 42:23 · KJV
And they said one to another, We are verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us.
And Reuben answered them, saying, Spake I not unto you, saying, Do not sin against the child; and ye would not hear? therefore, behold, also his blood is required.
And they knew not that Joseph understood them; for he spake unto them by an interpreter. he spake: Heb. an interpreter was between them
And he turned himself about from them, and wept; and returned to them again, and communed with them, and took from them Simeon, and bound him before their eyes.
Then Joseph commanded to fill their sacks with corn, and to restore every man's money into his sack, and to give them provision for the way: and thus did he unto them.
KJV Study — Public Domain
not (the simple or abs. negation); by implication, no; often used with other particles
“And they knew”
H3045to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“understood”
H8085to hear intelligently (often with implication of attention, obedience, etc.; causatively, to tell, etc.)
(by implication) very widely used as a relative conjunction or adverb (as below); often largely modified by other particles annexed
“them for he spake unto them by an interpreter”
H3887properly, to make mouths at, i.e., to scoff; hence (from the effort to pronounce a foreign language) to interpret, or (generally) intercede
between (repeated before each noun, often with other particles); also as a conjunction, either...or
This verse is found in the book of Genesis. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Genesis 42:23 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Genesis 42:23 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge