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Genesis 42 · a question people ask

Why did Joseph treat his brothers so roughly?

In the text

Genesis gives Joseph's own stated purpose: "By this you shall be tested" and "that your words may be tested, whether there is truth in you" (42:15-16); "so will your words be verified" (42:20). It also shows what he did out of their sight: "He turned himself away from them, and wept" (42:24). The text doesn't say more about his feelings or motives.

The verses

“By this you shall be tested. By the life of Pharaoh, you shall not go out from here, unless your youngest brother comes here. Send one of you, and let him get your brother, and you shall be bound, that your words may be tested, whether there is truth in you, or else by the life of Pharaoh surely you are spies.””
Genesis 42:15-16 · World English Bible
“Bring your youngest brother to me; so will your words be verified, and you won’t die.” They did so.”
Genesis 42:20 · World English Bible
“He turned himself away from them, and wept. Then he returned to them, and spoke to them, and took Simeon from among them, and bound him before their eyes.”
Genesis 42:24 · World English Bible

From Favor's study of Genesis 42

Genesis 42: The brothers bow

Joseph's brothers came to Egypt for grain and bowed before him, as in his dream, without knowing him. He recognized them but acted like a stranger, tested them and kept Simeon. The brothers confessed, in front of him, "We are certainly guilty concerning our brother," and Joseph turned away and wept. Jacob said, "All these things are against me."

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Scripture quotations are from the World English Bible, which is in the public domain. Every answer cites the verses it rests on. What we believe · All Bible questions