Genesis 42:15Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

I long to behold him; I desire to encounter my brother, for your actions toward me lead me to believe there is a spirit of animosity toward him within you.

Joseph, believing that his visions had yet to come to pass (as he dreamt that eleven stars bowed to him, while only ten of his siblings were present), chose to keep his distance to avoid undermining the truth of his dreams. Thus, he told his brothers, "You must confirm your bond as brothers by bringing the youngest sibling to me."

I take an oath by the well-being of Pharaoh. While some perceive a form of idolatry in invoking the name of Pharaoh, even the most devout among the Jews were familiar with the practice of using human names in their solemn declarations (1 Kings 17:55, 1 Kings 20:3, 1 Kings 25:26, 2 Kings 2:2, 4, 6). Joseph's sworn assurance expresses that just as it is true that Pharaoh is in good health, or that I desire him to be well, it is equally true that you shall not depart from this place, unless your younger brother is brought here. In a similar fashion, early Christians made oaths in the name of the pagan Caesars. Tertullian notes that just as we do not rely on the spirits of the Caesars, we do so through their well-being, which surpasses all others.