Genesis 45:3
Genesis 45:3 in Multiple Translations
Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But they were unable to answer him, because they were terrified in his presence.
And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence.
And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence.
And Joseph said to his brothers, I am Joseph: is my father still living? But his brothers were not able to give him an answer for they were troubled before him.
“I'm Joseph!” he announced to his brothers. “Is my father still alive?” They couldn't answer him as they were so surprised to see him face to face.
Then Ioseph sayde to his brethren, I am Ioseph: doeth my father yet liue? But his brethren coulde not answere him, for they were astonished at his presence.
And Joseph saith unto his brethren, 'I [am] Joseph, is my father yet alive?' and his brethren have not been able to answer him, for they have been troubled at his presence.
Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Does my father still live?” His brothers couldn’t answer him; for they were terrified at his presence.
And Joseph said to his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence.
And he said to his brethren: I am Joseph: is my father yet living? His brethren could not answer him, being struck with exceeding great fear.
Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is our father still alive?” But his brothers were not able to reply, because they were frightened because of what he said.
Then Joseph said to his brothers, “I am your brother Joseph. You said that my father is still alive. Is that true?” Joseph’s brothers got a big shock. You see, before this, they thought that he was one of the Egypt people, but now they knew that he was their brother Joseph. They were really shocked and frightened, so they didn’t say anything.
Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 45:3
BAB
Word Study
Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.
Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.
Genesis 45:3 Interlinear (Deep Study)
BIB
HEB
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
יוֹסֵ֤ף
אֶל
אֶחָי/ו֙
אֲנִ֣י
יוֹסֵ֔ף
הַ/ע֥וֹד
אָבִ֖/י
חָ֑י
וְ/לֹֽא
יָכְל֤וּ
אֶחָי/ו֙
לַ/עֲנ֣וֹת
אֹת֔/וֹ
כִּ֥י
נִבְהֲל֖וּ
מִ/פָּנָֽי/ו
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
to say
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
יוֹסֵ֤ף
Yôwçêph
H3130
Joseph
N-proper
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
to(wards)
Prep
אֶחָי/ו֙
ʼâch
H251
brother
N-mp | Suff
אֲנִ֣י
ʼănîy
H589
I
Pron
יוֹסֵ֔ף
Yôwçêph
H3130
Joseph
N-proper
הַ/ע֥וֹד
ʻôwd
H5750
still
Part | Adv
אָבִ֖/י
ʼâb
H1
father
N-ms | Suff
חָ֑י
chay
H2416
alive
Adj
וְ/לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
not
Conj | Part
יָכְל֤וּ
yâkôl
H3201
be able
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
אֶחָי/ו֙
ʼâch
H251
brother
N-mp | Suff
לַ/עֲנ֣וֹת
ʻânâh
H6030
to dwell
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
אֹת֔/וֹ
ʼêth
H853
Obj.
DirObjM | Suff
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
for
Conj
נִבְהֲל֖וּ
bâhal
H926
to dismay
V-Niphal-Perf-3cp
מִ/פָּנָֽי/ו
pânîym
H6440
face
Prep | N-cp | Suff
Hebrew Word Study
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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 45:3
וַ/יֹּ֨אמֶר
ʼâmar
H559
"to say"
Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3ms
This Hebrew word means to say or speak, and it's used in many different ways in the Bible. It can mean to command, promise, or think, and it's translated in the KJV as 'answer', 'appoint', or 'command'.
Definition: 1) to say, speak, utter 1a) (Qal) to say, to answer, to say in one's heart, to think, to command, to promise, to intend 1b) (Niphal) to be told, to be said, to be called 1c) (Hithpael) to boast, to act proudly 1d) (Hiphil) to avow, to avouch Aramaic equivalent: a.mar (אֲמַר "to say" H0560)
Usage: Occurs in 4337 OT verses. KJV: answer, appoint, avouch, bid, boast self, call, certify, challenge, charge, [phrase] (at the, give) command(-ment), commune, consider, declare, demand, [idiom] desire, determine, [idiom] expressly, [idiom] indeed, [idiom] intend, name, [idiom] plainly, promise, publish, report, require, say, speak (against, of), [idiom] still, [idiom] suppose, talk, tell, term, [idiom] that is, [idiom] think, use (speech), utter, [idiom] verily, [idiom] yet. See also: Genesis 1:3; Genesis 18:23; Genesis 25:32.
יוֹסֵ֤ף
Yôwçêph
H3130
"Joseph"
N-proper
Joseph means Jehovah has added, a name given to several Israelites, including the son of Jacob and Rachel. Joseph was a significant figure in the book of Genesis and the story of his brothers. He became a leader in Egypt.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.12.14 § Joseph = "Jehovah has added" 1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel 2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies 3) a son of Asaph 4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: Joseph. Compare H3084 (יְהוֹסֵף). See also: Genesis 30:24; Genesis 47:5; Psalms 77:16.
אֶל
ʼêl
H413
"to(wards)"
Prep
This Hebrew word means 'to' or 'toward', showing direction or movement. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus, to indicate where someone is going. The KJV translates it in various ways, like 'about', 'according to', or 'against'.
Definition: 1) to, toward, unto (of motion) 2) into (limit is actually entered) 2a) in among 3) toward (of direction, not necessarily physical motion) 4) against (motion or direction of a hostile character) 5) in addition to, to 6) concerning, in regard to, in reference to, on account of 7) according to (rule or standard) 8) at, by, against (of one's presence) 9) in between, in within, to within, unto (idea of motion to)
Usage: Occurs in 4205 OT verses. KJV: about, according to, after, against, among, as for, at, because(-fore, -side), both...and, by, concerning, for, from, [idiom] hath, in(-to), near, (out) of, over, through, to(-ward), under, unto, upon, whether, with(-in). See also: Genesis 1:9; Genesis 21:14; Genesis 31:13.
אֶחָי/ו֙
ʼâch
H251
"brother"
N-mp | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a brother or male sibling, but it can also refer to a close relative, friend, or someone with a similar relationship. It is used to describe the bond between brothers, like the relationship between Cain and Abel in Genesis.
Definition: : male-sibling 1) brother 1a) brother of same parents 1b) half-brother (same father) 1c) relative, kinship, same tribe 1d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship) 1e) (fig.) of resemblance
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other. Compare also the proper names beginning with 'Ah-' or 'Ahi-'. See also: Genesis 4:2; Genesis 42:13; Numbers 25:6.
אֲנִ֣י
ʼănîy
H589
"I"
Pron
This Hebrew word is a simple way of saying 'I' or 'me', often used for emphasis. It is used by people like David in the Psalms to express their thoughts and feelings. The word is a basic part of the Hebrew language.
Definition: I (first pers. sing. -usually used for emphasis)
Usage: Occurs in 803 OT verses. KJV: I, (as for) me, mine, myself, we, [idiom] which, [idiom] who. See also: Genesis 6:17; Leviticus 19:36; 1 Samuel 25:24.
יוֹסֵ֔ף
Yôwçêph
H3130
"Joseph"
N-proper
Joseph means Jehovah has added, a name given to several Israelites, including the son of Jacob and Rachel. Joseph was a significant figure in the book of Genesis and the story of his brothers. He became a leader in Egypt.
Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.12.14 § Joseph = "Jehovah has added" 1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel 2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies 3) a son of Asaph 4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah
Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: Joseph. Compare H3084 (יְהוֹסֵף). See also: Genesis 30:24; Genesis 47:5; Psalms 77:16.
הַ/ע֥וֹד
ʻôwd
H5750
"still"
Part | Adv
The word 'still' means something continues or happens again, like in Genesis 29:26 and Isaiah 2:11. It can also mean 'more' or 'additionally'.
Definition: subst 1) a going round, continuance adv 2) still, yet, again, besides 2a) still, yet (of continuance or persistence) 2b) still, yet, more (of addition or repetition) 2c) again 2d) still, moreover, besides Aramaic equivalent: od (עוֹד "still" H5751)
Usage: Occurs in 459 OT verses. KJV: again, [idiom] all life long, at all, besides, but, else, further(-more), henceforth, (any) longer, (any) more(-over), [idiom] once, since, (be) still, when, (good, the) while (having being), (as, because, whether, while) yet (within). See also: Genesis 4:25; Judges 9:37; 2 Chronicles 32:16.
אָבִ֖/י
ʼâb
H1
"father"
N-ms | Suff
In Hebrew, this word means father, whether literal or figurative. It is used to describe God as the father of his people, as well as human fathers like Abraham. The word is about a paternal relationship or authority.
Definition: 1) father of an individual 2) of God as father of his people 3) head or founder of a household, group, family, or clan 4) ancestor 4a) grandfather, forefathers - of person 4b) of people 5) originator or patron of a class, profession, or art 6) of producer, generator (fig.) 7) of benevolence and protection (fig.) 8) term of respect and honour 9) ruler or chief (spec.) Also means: av (אַב "father" H0002)
Usage: Occurs in 1060 OT verses. KJV: chief, (fore-) father(-less), [idiom] patrimony, principal. Compare names in 'Abi-'. See also: Genesis 2:24; Genesis 42:37; Leviticus 19:3.
חָ֑י
chay
H2416
"alive"
Adj
In the Bible, this word means life or being alive. It can refer to physical life, like in Genesis 1:20, or spiritual life, like in Psalm 30:5.
Definition: adj 1) living, alive 1a) green (of vegetation) 1b) flowing, fresh (of water) 1c) lively, active (of man) 1d) reviving (of the springtime) Aramaic equivalent: chay (חַי "living" H2417)
Usage: Occurs in 450 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] age, alive, appetite, (wild) beast, company, congregation, life(-time), live(-ly), living (creature, thing), maintenance, [phrase] merry, multitude, [phrase] (be) old, quick, raw, running, springing, troop. See also: Genesis 1:20; Deuteronomy 4:9; 2 Kings 5:16.
וְ/לֹֽא
lôʼ
H3808
"not"
Conj | Part
The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.
Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)
Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.
יָכְל֤וּ
yâkôl
H3201
"be able"
V-Qal-Perf-3cp
This Hebrew word means to be able or have power, used in various contexts, such as overcoming or enduring, and is translated as 'be able' or 'have power' in the KJV.
Definition: 1) to prevail, overcome, endure, have power, be able 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to be able, be able to gain or accomplish, be able to endure, be able to reach 1a2) to prevail, prevail over or against, overcome, be victor 1a3) to have ability, have strength Aramaic equivalent: ye.khel (יְכִל "be able" H3202)
Usage: Occurs in 182 OT verses. KJV: be able, any at all (ways), attain, can (away with, (-not)), could, endure, might, overcome, have power, prevail, still, suffer. See also: Genesis 13:6; 1 Kings 14:4; Psalms 13:5.
אֶחָי/ו֙
ʼâch
H251
"brother"
N-mp | Suff
In the Bible, this Hebrew word means a brother or male sibling, but it can also refer to a close relative, friend, or someone with a similar relationship. It is used to describe the bond between brothers, like the relationship between Cain and Abel in Genesis.
Definition: : male-sibling 1) brother 1a) brother of same parents 1b) half-brother (same father) 1c) relative, kinship, same tribe 1d) each to the other (reciprocal relationship) 1e) (fig.) of resemblance
Usage: Occurs in 572 OT verses. KJV: another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other. Compare also the proper names beginning with 'Ah-' or 'Ahi-'. See also: Genesis 4:2; Genesis 42:13; Numbers 25:6.
לַ/עֲנ֣וֹת
ʻânâh
H6030
"to dwell"
Prep | V-Qal-Inf-a
This verb means to sing or make music, but also to respond or give an answer. In the Bible, it is used to describe praising God in song or responding to a question. The KJV translates it as 'sing' or 'answer'.
Definition: (Qal) to dwell
Usage: Occurs in 316 OT verses. KJV: give account, afflict (by mistake for H6031 (עָנָה)), (cause to, give) answer, bring low (by mistake for H6031 (עָנָה)), cry, hear, Leannoth, lift up, say, [idiom] scholar, (give a) shout, sing (together by course), speak, testify, utter, (bear) witness. See also H1042 (בֵּית עֲנוֹת), H1043 (בֵּית עֲנָת). See also: Genesis 18:27; 2 Samuel 14:19; Job 40:2.
אֹת֔/וֹ
ʼêth
H853
"Obj."
DirObjM | Suff
In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.
Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)
Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.
כִּ֥י
kîy
H3588
"for"
Conj
A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.
Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore
Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.
נִבְהֲל֖וּ
bâhal
H926
"to dismay"
V-Niphal-Perf-3cp
This verb means to be alarmed or agitated, often suddenly. It's used in the Bible to describe people's reactions to frightening events, like battles or natural disasters. It can also mean to hurry or act hastily.
Definition: 1) to disturb, alarm, terrify, hurry, be disturbed, be anxious, be afraid, be hurried, be nervous 1a) (Niphal) 1a1) to be disturbed, dismayed, terrified, anxious 1a2) to be in haste, be hasty 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to make haste, act hastily, be hurried, be hastened 1b2) to dismay, terrify 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to hasten 1c2) hastened, hastily gained (part.) 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to hasten, hurry, make haste 1d2) to dismay, terrify
Usage: Occurs in 39 OT verses. KJV: be (make) affrighted (afraid, amazed, dismayed, rash), (be, get, make) haste(-n, -y, -ily), (give) speedy(-ily), thrust out, trouble, vex. See also: Genesis 45:3; Psalms 6:4; Psalms 2:5.
מִ/פָּנָֽי/ו
pânîym
H6440
"face"
Prep | N-cp | Suff
This word means face or presence, like being in front of someone or something. It's used in many contexts, like in Genesis, Exodus, and Psalms, to describe interactions and relationships.
Definition: : face 1) face 1a) face, faces 1b) presence, person 1c) face (of seraphim or cherubim) 1d) face (of animals) 1e) face, surface (of ground) 1f) as adv of loc/temp 1f1) before and behind, toward, in front of, forward, formerly, from beforetime, before 1g) with prep 1g1) in front of, before, to the front of, in the presence of, in the face of, at the face or front of, from the presence of, from before, from before the face of
Usage: Occurs in 1891 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] accept, a-(be-) fore(-time), against, anger, [idiom] as (long as), at, [phrase] battle, [phrase] because (of), [phrase] beseech, countenance, edge, [phrase] employ, endure, [phrase] enquire, face, favour, fear of, for, forefront(-part), form(-er time, -ward), from, front, heaviness, [idiom] him(-self), [phrase] honourable, [phrase] impudent, [phrase] in, it, look(-eth) (-s), [idiom] me, [phrase] meet, [idiom] more than, mouth, of, off, (of) old (time), [idiom] on, open, [phrase] out of, over against, the partial, person, [phrase] please, presence, propect, was purposed, by reason of, [phrase] regard, right forth, [phrase] serve, [idiom] shewbread, sight, state, straight, [phrase] street, [idiom] thee, [idiom] them(-selves), through ([phrase] -out), till, time(-s) past, (un-) to(-ward), [phrase] upon, upside ([phrase] down), with(-in, [phrase] -stand), [idiom] ye, [idiom] you. See also: Genesis 1:2; Genesis 43:31; Exodus 30:16.
Study Notes — Genesis 45:3
Show Verse Quote Highlights
- Context
- Cross References
- Genesis 45:3 Summary
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Reflection Questions
- Gill's Exposition on Genesis 45:3
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 45:3
- Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 45:3
- Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 45:3
- Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 45:3
- Cambridge Bible on Genesis 45:3
- Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 45:3
- Sermons on Genesis 45:3
Context — Joseph Reveals His Identity
1Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, “Send everyone away from me!” So none of them were with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers.
2But he wept so loudly that the Egyptians heard him, and Pharaoh’s household soon heard of it.
3Joseph said to his brothers, “I am Joseph! Is my father still alive?” But they were unable to answer him, because they were terrified in his presence.
4Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come near me.” And they did so. “I am Joseph, your brother,” he said, “the one you sold into Egypt! 5And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves that you sold me into this place, because it was to save lives that God sent me before you.Cross References
| Reference | Text (BSB) | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Acts 7:13 | On their second visit, Joseph revealed his identity to his brothers, and his family became known to Pharaoh. |
| 2 | Acts 9:5 | “Who are You, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” He replied. |
| 3 | Zechariah 12:10 | Then I will pour out on the house of David and on the people of Jerusalem a spirit of grace and prayer, and they will look on Me, the One they have pierced. They will mourn for Him as one mourns for an only child, and grieve bitterly for Him as one grieves for a firstborn son. |
| 4 | Mark 6:50 | for they all saw Him and were terrified. But Jesus spoke up at once: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” |
| 5 | Job 23:15 | Therefore I am terrified in His presence; when I consider this, I fear Him. |
| 6 | Job 4:5 | But now trouble has come upon you, and you are weary. It strikes you, and you are dismayed. |
| 7 | Luke 24:37–38 | But they were startled and frightened, thinking they had seen a spirit. “Why are you troubled,” Jesus asked, “and why do doubts arise in your hearts? |
| 8 | Matthew 14:26–27 | When the disciples saw Him walking on the sea, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost!” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus spoke up at once: “Take courage! It is I. Do not be afraid.” |
| 9 | Revelation 1:7 | Behold, He is coming with the clouds, and every eye will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the tribes of the earth will mourn because of Him. So shall it be! Amen. |
| 10 | Luke 5:8 | When Simon Peter saw this, he fell at Jesus’ knees. “Go away from me, Lord,” he said, “for I am a sinful man.” |
Genesis 45:3 Summary
In Genesis 45:3, Joseph reveals himself to his brothers and asks about his father's well-being, showing that family is important to him. This verse teaches us about the importance of prioritizing family and forgiveness, as Joseph does not seek revenge but instead shows love and concern for his brothers and father. We can learn from Joseph's example and apply it to our own lives, just as we are taught to love and forgive others in the Bible (Matthew 22:37-40). By following Joseph's example, we can build stronger, more loving relationships with those around us.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were Joseph's brothers terrified in his presence?
Joseph's brothers were terrified because they had sold him into slavery and now they were face to face with the powerful leader of Egypt, who was also their brother, as seen in Genesis 45:3. This fear was a result of their guilty consciences and the realization of the gravity of their past actions.
What was Joseph's primary concern when he revealed himself to his brothers?
Joseph's primary concern was the well-being of his father, Jacob, as he asked 'Is my father still alive?' in Genesis 45:3, showing that family was important to him and he was eager to know about his father's welfare.
How did Joseph's brothers respond to his question?
Joseph's brothers were unable to answer him because they were terrified in his presence, as stated in Genesis 45:3, which indicates the overwhelming fear and shock they experienced upon learning the true identity of the Egyptian leader.
What can we learn from Joseph's actions in this verse?
We can learn about the importance of forgiveness and family from Joseph's actions, as he prioritized his family's well-being and showed no signs of revenge, which is in line with the teachings of Jesus in the Bible, such as in Matthew 6:14-15, where we are taught to forgive others.
Reflection Questions
- What would I do if I were in Joseph's shoes, and how would I react to my brothers after all these years?
- How can I apply the principle of forgiveness, as seen in Joseph's life, to my own relationships and experiences?
- What role does family play in my life, and how can I prioritize their well-being like Joseph did?
- In what ways can I demonstrate the love and compassion of Christ to those around me, even in difficult or trying circumstances?
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 45:3
And Joseph said unto his brethren, I [am] Joseph,.... As soon as he could compose himself a little, and utter his words, the first thing he said was, that he was Joseph; that was his right name, his
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 45:3
And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence. I am Joseph.
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 45:3
He repeats his former question, , either because he questioned the truth of their former relation, or would be further satisfied in it, it being usual with men to ask over and over again what they long to know; or because he now desired a more particular relation of his father’ s condition, and how he did bear up under all his calamities. They were troubled at his presence, from a sudden and deep sense of their horrid guilt, and their just fear of some dreadful punishment.
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 45:3
Genesis 45:3 And Joseph said unto his brethren, I [am] Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence.Ver. 3. I am Joseph.] What a word was that! At the hearing thereof, what a strange conflict of contrary passions fell out in the hearts of the patriarchs! Wonder, doubt, reverence, fear, hope, guiltiness, joy, grief, struck them at once. Shall it not be so with the Jews at their glorious conversion, when they shall hear, "I am Jesus of Nazareth, whom ye have persecuted and pierced?"
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 45:3
Verse 3. I am Joseph] Mr. Pope supposed that the discovery of Ulysses to his son Telemachus bears some resemblance to Joseph's discovery of himself to his brethren. The passage may be seen in Homer, Odyss. l. xvi., ver. 186-218. A few lines from Cowper's translation will show much of the spirit of the original, and also a considerable analogy between the two scenes: - "I am thy father, for whose sake thou lead'st A life of wo by violence oppress'd. So saying, he kiss'd his son; while from his cheeks Tears trickled, tears till then perforce restrain'd. Then threw Telemachus His arms around his father's neck, and wept. Pangs of soft sorrow, not to be suppress'd, Seized both. So they, their cheeks with big round drops of wo Bedewing, stood."
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 45:3
3. doth my father yet live?] This question has seemed to some a strange one after the interviews which Joseph has already had (Genesis 43:27-28). But the thought of his father is uppermost in his mind, and in the agitation of the moment the turn which he gives to this first question seems to imply a desire to forget the last occasion on which they had met as brothers. He does not wait for an answer, or expect one. they were troubled, &c.] Cf. Genesis 50:15-21. No wonder that confusion and consternation made them speechless.
Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 45:3
3. Doth my father yet live — In the warmth and fulness of his emotion he seems yet to betray a suspicion of the report of his brethren. This throws light on the undue severity with which he has treated them all along.
Sermons on Genesis 45:3
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Gideon #4: The Glory of the Lord Jesus Christ by Ed Miller | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of relying on the Holy Spirit for Bible study. He states that the purpose of studying the Bible is to see Jesus and experience |
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Joseph: And He Washed His Face by J. Frank Norris | In this sermon, the preacher, Dillon, discusses the importance of human relationships and the need to follow God's law. He emphasizes the significance of presenting oneself in a ca |
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Jesus Christ Come in Flesh by John Gifford Bellett | John Gifford Bellett preaches on the significance of the ark and the camp during the journey through the wilderness, emphasizing the need for the camp to guide and guard the ark, s |
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Learning to Be a Minister by Leonard Ravenhill | In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about John Wesley and his commitment to spending time with God every morning at 4 o'clock. The speaker emphasizes the importance of dedic |
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Attributes of God (Series 2): The Sovereignty of God by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher begins by recounting the story of Jesus appearing to his disciples after his resurrection. The disciples were initially discouraged and disheartened, b |
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Almost a Christian by John Rhys Watkins | In this sermon, the preacher describes a man who is trapped in darkness and torment, symbolizing the state of humanity without Christ. The preacher emphasizes that salvation is ava |
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The Conversion of Saul by James A. Stewart | In this sermon, the preacher discusses the conversion of Saul of Tarsus, also known as the Apostle Paul. He emphasizes the excitement and joy of witnessing someone's transformation |