Old Testament
Genesis 50:17
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'Tell Joseph: Please forgive the trespass and sin of your brothers, for they treated you badly.' So now, we beg you, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of your father." Joseph cried when he received their message.
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So shall ye say unto Joseph, Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him.
What Genesis 50:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Joseph's brothers send a message asking for his forgiveness for the wrongs they committed against him. They acknowledge their past actions, recognizing that they treated him poorly. The mention of 'the servants of the God of your father' indicates their appeal to Joseph's faith and the shared heritage they have. Joseph's emotional response, as he weeps, shows the depth of his feelings and the pain of their past. This moment highlights the themes of forgiveness and reconciliation, as Joseph has the power to either hold onto the past or extend grace to his brothers. It reflects the struggle many face in forgiving those who have wronged them, and it emphasizes the importance of humility and seeking forgiveness. Joseph's tears may also signify relief and the healing that comes from restoring broken relationships, illustrating that forgiveness can lead to emotional release and restoration of family bonds.
How to apply Genesis 50:17 to your life
When faced with betrayal or hurt, we can choose to forgive, just as Joseph did. This act of forgiveness can lead to healing and restoration in our relationships. It reminds us to seek reconciliation and to approach those we have wronged with humility and sincerity.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: God Meant It for Good (Genesis 50:15–21)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: U.S. Army photo by Spc. Samantha R. Ciaramitaro, via DVIDS and Wikimedia Commons. License: Public domain in the United States — U.S. federal-government work. Source. Location: Great Ziggurat, Ur Archaeological City (Tell el-Mukayyar), Dhi Qar Governorate, Iraq. Resized for the web.
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Ur
The city Abram's family left to travel toward Canaan.
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Keep studying Genesis 50:17
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At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 50:17 mean?
Genesis 50:17 conveys a message from Joseph's brothers asking for his forgiveness for their past wrongs. They acknowledge their mistakes and appeal to Joseph's compassion, highlighting the themes of forgiveness and reconciliation.
What is the significance of forgiveness in Genesis 50:17?
The significance of forgiveness in Genesis 50:17 is profound, as it illustrates the power of letting go of past grievances. Joseph's potential to forgive his brothers represents the healing that can occur in relationships when humility and grace are present.
What does 'the servants of the God of your father' mean in Genesis 50:17?
The phrase 'the servants of the God of your father' in Genesis 50:17 emphasizes the shared faith and heritage of Joseph and his brothers. It serves as a reminder of their familial bond and appeals to Joseph's sense of duty and compassion.
Why did Joseph cry when he received the message in Genesis 50:17?
Joseph cried upon receiving the message in Genesis 50:17 because it stirred deep emotions related to his past suffering and the possibility of reconciliation with his brothers. His tears reflect both pain and the hope for restored relationships.
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