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Genesis 44:21 - Judah's plea for Benjamin's freedom

Genesis 44:21 - בראשית 44:21

Hebrew Text

וַתֹּאמֶר אֶל־עֲבָדֶיךָ הוֹרִדֻהוּ אֵלָי וְאָשִׂימָה עֵינִי עָלָיו׃

English Translation

And thou didst say to thy servants, Bring him down to me, that I may set my eyes upon him.

Transliteration

Vatomer el-avadecha horidu elai ve'asimah eini alav.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתֹּ֙אמֶר֙ אֶל־עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ הוֹרִדֻ֖הוּ אֵלָ֑י וְאָשִׂ֥ימָה עֵינִ֖י עָלָֽיו׃
וַתֹּ֙אמֶר֙ אֶל־עֲבָדֶ֔יךָ הוֹרִדֻ֖הוּ אֵלָ֑י וְאָשִׂ֥ימָה עֵינִ֖י עָלָֽיו׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bereshit 44:21) is part of the narrative where Yosef's brothers recount their previous interaction with him (while unaware of his true identity) to the Egyptian viceroy (Yosef himself). The brothers explain how Yosef had demanded that they bring Binyamin down to Egypt.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi interprets the phrase "וְאָשִׂימָה עֵינִי עָלָיו" ("that I may set my eyes upon him") in two ways:

  • Literal Meaning: Yosef wanted to see Binyamin with his own eyes to confirm that he was indeed their brother.
  • Figurative Meaning: The expression implies benevolence—"I will show him favor and kindness." This aligns with other biblical usages where "setting one's eyes" denotes care and protection (e.g., Yirmiyahu 24:6).

Ramban's Insight

Ramban (Nachmanides) adds that Yosef's request was a test of the brothers' honesty. By insisting they bring Binyamin, he sought to determine whether they would protect their youngest brother as they had failed to do for him years earlier.

Midrashic Interpretation

The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 91:10) elaborates that Yosef's desire to "set his eyes" on Binyamin was rooted in their shared maternal bond (as sons of Rachel). Yosef longed to see his only full brother and ensure his well-being after their long separation.

Ibn Ezra's Perspective

Ibn Ezra emphasizes the diplomatic language used here. The brothers, speaking to a powerful ruler, phrase Yosef's demand respectfully ("הוֹרִדֻהוּ אֵלָי") rather than as a command, reflecting their cautious approach to avoid further suspicion.

Halachic Implication

The Kli Yakar notes that Yosef's phrasing teaches a lesson in derech eretz (proper conduct). Even when making a request from a position of authority, one should use gentle language ("that I may set my eyes upon him") rather than harsh demands.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'set my eyes upon him' mean in Genesis 44:21?
A: In Genesis 44:21, when Yosef's brothers recount that he said 'that I may set my eyes upon him,' it means Yosef wanted to personally oversee and care for Binyamin (Rashi on Genesis 44:21). This phrase implies protection and supervision, showing Yosef's concern for his younger brother.
Q: Why did Yosef ask his brothers to bring Binyamin down to Egypt?
A: Yosef asked his brothers to bring Binyamin to Egypt to test whether they had repented for selling him into slavery years earlier (Midrash Bereishit Rabbah 91:8). By seeing how they treated Binyamin, Yosef could determine if they had changed and would protect their youngest brother.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef's request to see Binyamin?
A: This teaches the importance of family unity and responsibility. Yosef wanted to ensure his brothers would not abandon Binyamin as they had once abandoned him (Rambam, Hilchos Dei'os 6:3). It also shows how tests can help gauge personal growth and repentance.
Q: How does this verse connect to the broader story of Yosef and his brothers?
A: This verse is part of Yosef's plan to reveal his identity and reconcile with his brothers (Talmud, Chullin 91a). By requesting Binyamin's presence, Yosef sets the stage for the emotional reunion that ultimately leads to forgiveness and the fulfillment of his childhood dreams.