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Genesis 47:18

When that year was ended, they came unto him the second year, and said unto him, We will not hide it from my lord, how that our money is spent; my lord also hath our herds of cattle; there is not ought left in the sight of my lord, but our bodies, and our lands:

Genesis 47:18 · King James Version

Meaning

This verse from the Bible, specifically from the book of Genesis, tells the story of Joseph's brothers coming to him during a time of famine. They express their desperation by revealing that they have spent all their money and that their herds of cattle now belong to Joseph. They acknowledge that they have nothing left to offer but themselves and their lands. This moment in the narrative reflects both the financial ruin the brothers face as well as their recognition of Joseph's power and control over the situation. It sets the stage for the events that follow, as Joseph ultimately reveals his identity to his brothers and forgives them for their past actions. This verse serves as a reminder of the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the powerful impact of honesty and humility in relationships.

Theological Overview

In this verse, the brothers of Joseph are speaking to him, revealing the desperate situation they find themselves in after their first visit to Egypt. They admit to Joseph that their money has run out, and that he now possesses their herds of cattle. This confession demonstrates a shift in their perspective as they come face to face with the consequences of their past actions. The mentioning of their bodies and lands being the only things left emphasizes the gravity of their situation, as they are willing to offer themselves and their property in order to rectify the mistake they made by selling Joseph into slavery years before. This passage illustrates themes of repentance, humility, and the consequences of one's actions. From a theological standpoint, it highlights the importance of taking responsibility for one's sins and being willing to make amends. It also serves as a reminder of the power of forgiveness and the opportunity for redemption that is available to all who seek it.

Genesis 47:18 in other translations

American Standard Version

And when that year was ended, they came unto him the second year, and said unto him, We will not hide from my lord, how that our money is all spent; and the herds of cattle are my lord's; there is nought left in the sight of my lord, but our bodies, and our lands:

World English Bible

When that year was ended, they came to him the second year, and said to him, “We will not hide from my lord how our money is all spent, and the herds of livestock are my lord’s. There is nothing left in the sight of my lord, but our bodies, and our lands.

Douay-Rheims

And they came the second year, and said to him: We will not hide from our lord, how that our money is spent, and our cattle also are gone: neither art thou ignorant that we have nothing now left but our bodies and our lands.

Geneva Bible (1599)

But when the yeere was ended, they came vnto him the next yeere, and sayd vnto him, We will not hide from my lord, that since our money is spent, and my lord hath the heards of the cattel, there is nothing left in the sight of my lorde, but our bodies and our ground.