Genesis 43:10

10 "For if we had not delayed, surely by now we could have returned twice."

Genesis 43:10 Meaning and Commentary

Genesis 43:10

For except we had lingered
Delayed going down to Egypt, through the demur Jacob made of tending Benjamin with them: surely now we had returned this second time;
they would have made their journey to Egypt, and returned again with their corn, and their brother Benjamin too, as Judah supposed, before this time; so that by these delays they were losing time, and involving themselves and families in distress for want of corn.

Genesis 43:10 In-Context

8 Judah said to his father Israel, "Send the lad with me and we will arise and go, that we may live and not die, we as well as you and our little ones.

9 "I myself will be surety for him; you may hold me responsible for him. If I do not bring him back to you and set him before you, then let me bear the blame before you forever .

10 "For if we had not delayed, surely by now we could have returned twice."

11 Then their father Israel said to them, "If it must be so, then do this: take some of the best products of the land in your bags, and carry down to the man as a present, a little balm and a little honey, aromatic gum and myrrh, pistachio nuts and almonds.

12 "Take double the money in your hand, and take back in your hand the money that was returned in the mouth of your sacks; perhaps it was a mistake.