9-14. Ye are spies--This is a suspicion entertained regarding strangers in all Eastern countries down to the present day. Joseph, however, who was well aware that his brethren were not spies, has been charged with cruel dissimulation, with a deliberate violation of what he knew to be the truth, in imputing to them such a character. But it must be remembered that he was sustaining the part of a ruler; and, in fact, acting on the very principle sanctioned by many of the sacred writers, and our Lord Himself, who spoke parables (fictitious stories) to promote a good end.
JFB.
Outline
1 Jacob sends his ten sons to buy corn in Egypt
16 They are imprisoned by Joseph as spies
18 But are freed, on one condition that they bring Benjamin
21 Their remorse on account of Joseph
24 Simeon is kept as a pledge
25 They return home with corn, and with their money
29 Their report to Jacob
36 Jacob refuses to send Benjamin
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