Genesis 44:9

9 If any of us is[a] found to have it, he must die, and we also will become my lord's slaves."

Genesis 44:9 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 44:9

With whomsoever of thy servants it be found
The silver cup: both let him die;
which was rashly said, since they might have thought the cup might be put in one of their sacks unknown to them, as their money had been before; and besides, death was a punishment too severe for such a crime, and therefore is by the steward himself moderated; but this they said the more strongly to express their innocence: and we also will be my lord's bondmen;
his servants, as long as they lived: this was likewise carrying the matter too far, and exceeding all bounds of justice, which could only require satisfaction of the offender.

Genesis 44:9 In-Context

7 They said to him, "Why does my lord say these things? Your servants could not possibly do such a thing.
8 We even brought back to you from the land of Canaan the money we found at the top of our bags. How could we steal gold and silver from your master's house?
9 If any of us is found to have it, he must die, and we also will become my lord's slaves."
10 The steward replied, "What you have said is proper, but only the one who is found to have it will be my slave, and the rest of you will be blameless."
11 So each one quickly lowered his sack to the ground and opened it.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. Lit If your servants are
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