Definition: And they said, Thy servants [are] twelve brethren, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan; and, behold, the youngest [is] this day with our father, and one [is] not.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Genesis 42:13. It’s a really significant story about Joseph! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: “They said…” : This is a group of people – likely servants – who were watching Joseph. “…thy servants twelve brethren, the sons of one man in the land of Canaan…” : This tells us that Joseph was born in Egypt, and he came from a single father. He’s part of a family line that lived in Canaan (which is now Israel). “…and, behold, the youngest [is] this day with our father, and one [is] not.” : This is the crucial part. The youngest of Joseph's brothers – he was the eldest – became the son of Joseph and his adoptive father, Jacob. The word “one” means that they are now a family together. Putting it all together: This verse describes a very strange and dramatic situation. Joseph’s birth brought about a reunion between him and his father, Jacob, and their family. It’s like a sudden and unexpected union! Why is this important? This story illustrates several key themes in the Bible: Divine Providence: It shows that God has a plan for everything, even seemingly impossible things. He brings people together unexpectedly. Redemption & Reconciliation: The story of Joseph highlights the possibility of redemption and forgiveness – even when things seem tragic. In short, it’s a story about a birth that leads to a reunion and a new family. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this story in more detail? Answer any specific questions you have about it?