Definition: And hast not suffered me to kiss my sons and my daughters? thou hast now done foolishly in [so] doing.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Genesis 31:28. It’s a really famous story about Joseph, a young man who is tricked by his brothers. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Joseph was taken captive: Joseph’s father, Jacob, sends his youngest son, Joseph, to Egypt to be sold into slavery. The Brothers' Trickery: Joseph’s brothers, driven by jealousy and spite, decide to sneak into his house and steal a special sheep – a gift from Jacob. Joseph’s Cleverness: Joseph, being clever and resourceful, manages to escape and even trick them! He leads them on a wild chase through the land. What the Verse Says - The Core of the Message: “And hast not suffered me to kiss my sons and my daughters? Thou hast now done foolishly in [so] doing.” This is where it gets powerful. It’s essentially saying: “You've been cruel and unfair to me, and you’ve acted in a way that was incredibly foolish.” Let's unpack the meaning: “Hast not suffered me…” : This means Joseph wasn't treated with kindness or respect. He faced hardship and pain. "...to kiss my sons and my daughters?" : This is key. The verse implies Joseph was denied a simple, loving gesture – the opportunity to hold his children. It’s about a fundamental lack of care and affection. “Thou hast now done foolishly in [so] doing.” : This is the crucial part. "Thou" means "you." This is a powerful command, like an angry voice. The word “foolish” emphasizes that Joseph's actions were wrong and unwise. It suggests he acted impulsively or without considering consequences. Overall Interpretation: The verse paints a picture of a deeply troubled situation where Joseph was treated unfairly and his family was denied a basic human connection. It’s a story about betrayal, injustice, and the potential for great suffering when people don't treat each other with respect and compassion. Important Note: This is just one part of a larger narrative in Genesis 31. It sets the stage for a challenging journey for Joseph, highlighting his resilience and eventual triumph over adversity. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of the story? Discuss the symbolism behind this verse (like the theme of betrayal)? Give you a brief summary of what happens next in the story?