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Genesis 42:10 - Brothers plead for survival

Genesis 42:10 - בראשית 42:10

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמְרוּ אֵלָיו לֹא אֲדֹנִי וַעֲבָדֶיךָ בָּאוּ לִשְׁבָּר־אֹכֶל׃

English Translation

And they said to him, No, my lord, but to buy food are thy servants come.

Transliteration

Vayomru elav lo adoni va'avadecha bau lishbor-ochel

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּאמְר֥וּ אֵלָ֖יו לֹ֣א אֲדֹנִ֑י וַעֲבָדֶ֥יךָ בָּ֖אוּ לִשְׁבׇּר־אֹֽכֶל׃
וַיֹּאמְר֥וּ אֵלָ֖יו לֹ֣א אֲדֹנִ֑י וַעֲבָדֶ֥יךָ בָּ֖אוּ לִשְׁבׇּר־אֹֽכֶל׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Genesis 42:10) appears in the narrative where Yosef's brothers come to Egypt to purchase grain during the famine. Unbeknownst to them, they are standing before their brother Yosef, who recognizes them but conceals his identity. The brothers respond to Yosef's accusation that they are spies by insisting they have come solely to buy food.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the brothers' response, "No, my lord" (לֹא אֲדֹנִי), is a respectful denial of Yosef's accusation. They emphasize their humble intentions by referring to themselves as "thy servants" (וַעֲבָדֶיךָ), demonstrating deference to the Egyptian ruler (whom they do not recognize as Yosef). Rashi notes that their language reflects their sincerity and lack of ulterior motives.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 91:6) highlights the brothers' humility and honesty in their response. Despite their noble lineage as sons of Yaakov, they present themselves as mere servants seeking sustenance. This mirrors the principle of אמת ואמונה (truth and faithfulness) in dealing with others, even in a foreign land.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 5:7) teaches the importance of dignified speech and respect for authority, as exemplified by the brothers' address to Yosef as "my lord" (אֲדֹנִי). Their conduct aligns with the ethical imperative to speak truthfully while maintaining proper decorum, especially when interacting with those in power.

Key Themes

  • Humility: The brothers' self-identification as servants underscores their humility in a time of need.
  • Honesty: Their straightforward denial of espionage reflects their commitment to truth.
  • Respect for Authority: Their language models proper deference to leadership, a value emphasized in Jewish tradition.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 42:10 mean?
A: In Genesis 42:10, Joseph's brothers respond to him (not recognizing him) by saying they came only to buy food during the famine. Rashi explains that they were emphasizing their honesty—they were not spies as Joseph had accused, but simply in need of sustenance. This verse shows their humility ('No, my lord') and their immediate need during the famine.
Q: Why is Genesis 42:10 important?
A: This verse is important because it marks a key moment in the reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers. The Midrash highlights how their words unknowingly begin the process of teshuva (repentance) for selling Joseph. Their respectful address ('my lord') and stated purpose ('to buy food') contrast with their earlier actions, showing growth.
Q: What can we learn from Genesis 42:10?
A: We learn the importance of speaking truthfully and respectfully, even in difficult situations. The brothers, despite their past mistakes, model humility by addressing Joseph as 'my lord' and clarifying their honest intentions. The Rambam teaches that such conduct is foundational to teshuvah (repentance) and repairing relationships.
Q: How does Genesis 42:10 apply today?
A: This verse reminds us to approach others with honesty and humility, especially when seeking help. Just as Joseph's brothers acknowledged their need for food without deceit, we too should communicate our needs sincerely. The Talmud (Yevamot 79a) praises these traits as defining qualities of the Jewish people.