Genesis 50:17
So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him.
Genesis 50:17 · King James Version
Meaning
When Joseph's brothers approached him, asking for forgiveness for the wrongs they had done to him, it marked a pivotal moment in their relationship. The brothers, who had once sold Joseph into slavery out of jealousy, were now coming before him sincerely seeking forgiveness. This verse demonstrates the power of forgiveness and the importance of reconciliation in relationships. Despite the deep wounds inflicted by his brothers, Joseph chose to forgive them, showing compassion and mercy. His emotional response of weeping reflects the complexity of the situation and the deep emotions involved. Ultimately, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the power of forgiveness to heal past wounds and restore broken relationships.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see the brothers of Joseph pleading for his forgiveness for the wrong they had done to him. The theological interpretation of this passage emphasizes the importance of forgiveness and reconciliation. Joseph's brothers had betrayed him, yet they come before him seeking forgiveness, acknowledging their sin and trespass. This reflects the biblical teachings on the power of forgiveness and the need for reconciliation in relationships. Joseph's response of weeping shows the depth of his emotions and the complexity of the situation. This verse teaches us about the transformative power of forgiveness and the healing that comes from reconciliation. Through Joseph's example, we are reminded of God's grace and mercy, and our own need to extend forgiveness to those who have wronged us.
Genesis 50:17 in other translations
American Standard Version
So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the transgression of thy brethren, and their sin, for that they did unto thee evil. And now, we pray thee, forgive the transgression of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him.
World English Bible
‘You shall tell Joseph, “Now please forgive the disobedience of your brothers, and their sin, because they did evil to you.”’ Now, please forgive the disobedience of the servants of the God of your father.” Joseph wept when they spoke to him.
Douay-Rheims
That we should say thus much to thee from him: I beseech thee to forget the wickedness of thy brethren, and the sin and malice they practised against thee: we also pray thee, to forgive the servants of the God of thy father this wickedness. And when Joseph heard this, he wept.
Geneva Bible (1599)
Thus shall ye say vnto Ioseph, Forgiue now, I pray thee, the trespasse of thy brethren, and their sinne: for they rewarded thee euil. And nowe, we pray thee, forgiue the trespasse of the seruants of thy fathers God. And Ioseph wept, when they spake vnto him.