And we said, We cannot go down: if our youngest brother be with us, then will we go down: for we may not see the man’s face, except our youngest brother be with us.
And we told him, 'We can't go back down there. If our youngest brother comes with us, then we'll go. We're not allowed to appear before that man unless our youngest brother is with us.'
The brothers are explaining that they cannot return to Egypt without Benjamin because the Egyptian ruler (Joseph) has demanded to see their youngest brother.
📚 Historical Context
In the biblical narrative of Genesis, Joseph had been sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and rose to become a powerful official in Egypt during a time of severe famine. When his brothers traveled to Egypt to buy food, Joseph tested their character by insisting they bring their youngest brother, Benjamin, as a condition for further dealings. This verse captures the brothers' response, highlighting their hesitation to return without Benjamin due to fear and the strict terms imposed by Joseph.
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