Definition: But if thou wilt not send [him], we will not go down: for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother [be] with you.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 43:5. It’s a really important and slightly mysterious passage that speaks about God's plan to rescue Joseph. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God is setting up a trap for Joseph. He’s telling his servants, “We won’t go down to get him unless you make sure your brother is with you.” Basically, he’s saying that if Joseph doesn't cooperate, he’s going to be left alone. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “But if thou wilt not send [him]…” : This is the crucial part. It means God is instructing his servants – specifically, Joseph’s brothers – to not go after him. “…we will not go down:” This refers to a specific journey or plan that God has laid out for them. It's about a strategic move. “for the man said unto us, Ye shall not see my face, except your brother [be] with you.” : This is the most important part. It’s a very strange and symbolic instruction. It means: God wants to keep Joseph hidden from his brothers, only when they are together. What does this mean? This verse is about God's control over events and his desire to protect his people. It suggests several things: God’s Sovereignty: He’s in charge of everything. He doesn't want anyone to be free or independent. Protection: He wants to shield Joseph from harm and maintain a specific family dynamic. Mystery & Foreshadowing: The verse is written after the events that lead to Joseph’s imprisonment, which adds a layer of intrigue and hints at larger stories about God's plan. In short, this verse is a classic example of how God can use seemingly strange instructions to achieve his purposes. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss the symbolism behind this verse? Give you some context about Joseph’s situation in Genesis 43?