Genesis 44:9

9 If one of us has it, he will die, and the rest of us will become your 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 answered him, "Sir, how can you say such things? We would never think of doing anything like that!

8 We brought the money we found in our sacks back from Canaan. So why would we steal any silver or gold from your master's house?

9 If one of us has it, he will die, and the rest of us will become your slaves."

10 "I agree," he said. "We'll do what you've said. The man who has the cup will be my slave, and the rest of you can go free."

11 Each one quickly lowered his sack to the ground and opened it.