King James Version
What Does Genesis 44:11 Mean?
“Then they speedily took down every man his sack to the ground, and opened every man his sack.”
Context
9
With whomsoever of thy servants it be found, both let him die, and we also will be my lord's bondmen.
10
And he said, Now also let it be according unto your words: he with whom it is found shall be my servant; and ye shall be blameless.
11
Then they speedily took down every man his sack to the ground, and opened every man his sack.
12
And he searched, and began at the eldest, and left at the youngest: and the cup was found in Benjamin's sack.
13
Then they rent their clothes, and laded every man his ass, and returned to the city.
Commentary
Matthew Henry’s Concise CommentaryChapter 44
Chapter Outline
Joseph's policy to stay his brethren, and try their affection for Benjamin.(1-17)
Judah's supplication to Joseph.(18-34)
**Verses 1-17**
Joseph tried how his brethren felt towards Benjamin. Had they envied and hated the other son of Rachel as they had hated him, and if they had the same want of feeling towards their father Jacob as heretofore, they would now have shown it. When the cup was found upon Benjamin, they would have a pretext for leaving him to be a slave. But we cannot judge what men are now, by what they have been formerly; nor what they will do, by what they have done. The steward charged them with being ungrateful, rewarding evil for good; with folly, in taking away the cup of daily use, which would soon be missed, and diligent search made for it; for so it may be read, Is not this it in which my lord drinketh, as having a particular fondness for it, and for which he would search thoroughly? Or, By which, leaving it carelessly at your table, he would make trial whether you were honest men or not? They throw themselves upon Joseph's mercy, and acknowledge the righteousness of God, perhaps thinking of the injury they had formerly done to Joseph, for which they thought God was now reckoning with them. Even in afflictions wherein we believe ourselves wronged by men, we must own that God is righteous, and finds out our sin.
Matthew Henry (1662–1714). Public Domain.
Historical Context
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.
Theological Significance
Genesis 44:11 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.