44:6-9
The steward caught up with Joseph’s brothers. Not surprisingly, they objected vehemently to the accusations. In particular, they pointed out that they had returned the money that had been in their sacks after the first journey. They then make a rash promise, saying that if anyone is found to have the silver cup then that person should die, and the rest of them would be the steward’s servants. There are a number of rash promises made in the Bible. The brothers were innocent and so had no reason to think otherwise.
44:10-17
The steward agrees to their promise, in fact saying that the other brothers would be free to go. Of course, when the sacks were looked at money was found in them, and the cup was found in Benjamin’s sack. This was an absolute disaster for the brothers. They return to Joseph and fall prostrate before him, looking for mercy. Joseph continues with the pretence. However, he seems to lessen the penalty. Benjamin would be his servant, rather than being put to death, and the rest could return home.
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