Genesis 42:21
And they said one to another, We are verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us.
Genesis 42:21 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse is taken from the book of Genesis in the Bible and is part of the story of Joseph and his brothers. In this particular verse, Joseph's brothers are expressing remorse and guilt for their past actions. They are acknowledging that they are responsible for the suffering their brother endured when they ignored his pleas for help. The verse emphasizes the consequences of their actions, as they believe that the distress they are currently facing is a direct result of the harm they caused Joseph. It serves as a reminder of the importance of being compassionate and listening to others in need, as well as the repercussions of turning a blind eye to someone's suffering. This verse is a powerful lesson on the impact of our choices and the importance of taking responsibility for our actions, highlighting the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the power of acknowledging one's wrongdoing.
Theological Overview
When looking at the theological interpretation of this verse, we can see the themes of guilt, remorse, and divine retribution. The brothers in this passage are reflecting on their past actions towards Joseph, their younger brother, realizing the magnitude of the pain they caused him. They are acknowledging their guilt in not listening to his pleas for mercy when they sold him into slavery. This reflection serves as a moment of self-awareness and repentance for their past sins. The concept of divine retribution is also present, as the distress they are currently facing is viewed as a consequence of their previous actions. This verse speaks to the importance of acknowledging one's wrongdoings, seeking forgiveness, and accepting the consequences of one's actions. It serves as a reminder of the power of repentance and the belief that ultimately, justice will prevail in the eyes of God.
Genesis 42:21 in other translations
American Standard Version
And they said one to another, We are verily guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the distress of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear; therefore is this distress come upon us.
World English Bible
They said one to another, “We are certainly guilty concerning our brother, in that we saw the distress of his soul, when he begged us, and we wouldn’t listen. Therefore this distress has come upon us.”
Douay-Rheims
And they talked one to another: We deserve to suffer these things, because we have sinned against our brother, seeing the anguish of his soul, when he besought us, and we would not hear: therefore is this affliction come upon us.
Geneva Bible (1599)
And they said one to another, We haue verily sinned against our brother, in that we sawe the anguish of his soule, when he besought vs, and we would not heare him: therefore is this trouble come vpon vs.