Genesis 42:14

14 "It is just as I said," Joseph answered. "You are spies.

Genesis 42:14 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 42:14

And Joseph said unto them, that [is it] that I spake unto
you, saying, ye [are] spies.
] This proves it, at least gives strong suspicion of it; since at first they seemed to speak of themselves, as if they were the only sons of one man and there were no more, now they speak of twelve, and make mention of one being at home with his father; but seeing he sent so many of them, why not all? why should one only be left at home?

Genesis 42:14 In-Context

12 Joseph said to them, "No! You have come to find out where our country is weak."

13 They said, "We were twelve brothers in all, sir, sons of the same man in the land of Canaan. One brother is dead, and the youngest is now with our father."

14 "It is just as I said," Joseph answered. "You are spies.

15 This is how you will be tested: I swear by the name of the king that you will never leave unless your youngest brother comes here.

16 One of you must go and get him. The rest of you will be kept under guard until the truth of what you say can be tested. Otherwise, as sure as the king lives, you are spies."