Definition: And we said unto my lord, The lad cannot leave his father: for [if] he should leave his father, [his father] would die.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 44:22. It's a really important passage that speaks about God’s protection and the importance of loyalty. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Idea: God is saying to his servants, Joseph, that he cannot let a young man, named Jacob (later renamed Israel), leave his father’s side. It's a firm promise of protection and care. Let’s unpack it word-by-word: “And we said unto my lord…” – This is a formal way of saying "God spoke to me." It indicates this is a significant statement from God. “…The lad cannot leave his father:” – This means that Jacob, who was a young man, cannot stray away from his father. He's committed to staying with him. “For [if] he should leave his father:…” – This is the key part. It’s saying “If” Jacob leaves his father, then… “…his father would die.” - This is the consequence of Jacob leaving. His father would perish. What does this mean practically? This verse is a powerful statement about God's care for his people and his commitment to protect them. It highlights several important themes: God’s Protection: It emphasizes that God is actively involved in the lives of his people and will not allow them to be vulnerable or at risk. Loyalty & Duty: It underscores the importance of loyalty – to one's family, to your responsibilities, and to those you are sworn to protect. Divine Providence: It suggests that God is working for good in our lives, even when it might seem difficult or challenging. In short, this verse is a declaration of God’s unwavering devotion and protection towards Jacob and his family. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Genesis 44? Discuss the significance of this verse in a broader context (like the story of Joseph)?