Genesis 50:15

When Joseph's brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, "What if Joseph bears a grudge? Then he will surely repay us for all the evil that we did to him."

Study Bible

When Joseph’s brothers saw
This phrase sets the scene for a moment of realization and fear among Joseph's brothers. The Hebrew root for "saw" is "ra'ah," which implies not just physical sight but also understanding or perceiving. This indicates a deeper awareness among the brothers of the potential consequences of their past actions. Historically, this moment follows the death of Jacob, their father, which removes a protective barrier they might have felt. The brothers' perception is not just about the absence of their father but also about the potential change in their relationship with Joseph.

that their father was dead
The death of Jacob is a pivotal moment in the narrative. In the ancient Near Eastern context, the patriarch of a family held significant authority and influence. Jacob's death signifies a shift in family dynamics and the loss of a unifying figure. The Hebrew word for "dead" is "muwth," which is often used in the Old Testament to denote physical death but also carries connotations of separation and finality. This event forces the brothers to confront their past actions without the buffer of their father's presence.

they said
This phrase indicates a collective response or discussion among the brothers. The Hebrew word "amar" is used here, which can mean to say, speak, or think. It suggests an internal dialogue or a shared concern that prompts them to voice their fears. This moment of communication reflects their anxiety and the need to address unresolved issues with Joseph.

What if Joseph bears a grudge
The brothers' question reveals their fear of retribution. The Hebrew word for "bears a grudge" is "satam," which means to cherish animosity or hold a grudge. This reflects their awareness of the gravity of their past actions against Joseph and their understanding of human nature's potential for holding onto past wrongs. It also highlights their guilt and the lack of assurance in Joseph's forgiveness, despite his previous acts of kindness.

against us
This phrase personalizes their fear, acknowledging that the potential grudge is directed specifically at them. It underscores their collective guilt and shared responsibility for their actions against Joseph. The brothers are acutely aware that their past misdeeds have consequences that could directly impact their lives.

and pays us back in full
The concept of retribution is central here. The Hebrew word "shalam" is used, which means to complete, make amends, or recompense. It suggests a full measure of justice or repayment for wrongs done. The brothers fear that Joseph might seek to balance the scales by repaying them for their betrayal, reflecting the ancient principle of justice and retribution.

for all the wrong we did to him
This phrase is a confession of guilt and acknowledgment of their past sins. The Hebrew word for "wrong" is "ra'ah," which means evil or harm. It is a candid admission of the moral and ethical breach they committed against Joseph. This acknowledgment is crucial for understanding the depth of their fear and the potential for reconciliation. It also sets the stage for Joseph's response, which will reveal his character and the overarching theme of forgiveness and redemption in the narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
- The favored son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers but rose to become a powerful leader in Egypt. He is a central figure in this passage, dealing with the aftermath of his father's death.

2. Joseph's Brothers
- The sons of Jacob who previously sold Joseph into slavery. They are now concerned about Joseph's potential retribution following their father's death.

3. Jacob (Israel)
- The father of Joseph and his brothers, whose recent death prompts the brothers' fear of retribution from Joseph.

4. Egypt
- The land where Joseph rose to power and where the family of Jacob resided during the famine.

5. Canaan
- The land promised to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the place where Jacob was buried.

Teaching Points

The Power of Forgiveness
Joseph's account exemplifies the transformative power of forgiveness. Despite the wrongs done to him, Joseph chooses to forgive his brothers, reflecting God's grace.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Joseph's life demonstrates a deep trust in God's plan, even when circumstances seem dire. His faith in God's sovereignty is a model for believers facing trials.

Fear and Guilt
The brothers' fear of retribution highlights how unresolved guilt can haunt individuals. It is a reminder of the importance of seeking reconciliation and forgiveness.

Family Reconciliation
The account encourages believers to pursue peace and reconciliation within families, trusting that God can heal broken relationships.

God's Providence
Joseph's journey from slavery to leadership illustrates God's providential care and ability to bring good out of evil situations.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his brothers' fear in Genesis 50:15 reflect his understanding of God's sovereignty and forgiveness?

2. In what ways can unresolved guilt affect our relationships, and how can we address it in light of Joseph's account?

3. How does Joseph's attitude towards his brothers compare to Jesus' teachings on forgiveness in the New Testament?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's life about trusting God's plan, even when we face difficult circumstances?

5. How can we apply the principles of reconciliation and forgiveness in our own family dynamics, as seen in Joseph's interactions with his brothers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
This chapter provides the background of Joseph's relationship with his brothers, including their betrayal and his subsequent journey to Egypt.

Genesis 45
Here, Joseph reveals his identity to his brothers and forgives them, which sets the stage for the reconciliation process.

Matthew 6:14-15
Jesus teaches about forgiveness, which parallels Joseph's actions and the importance of forgiving others as God forgives us.

Romans 12:19
Paul speaks about leaving vengeance to God, which aligns with Joseph's attitude towards his brothers.