Genesis 44:6Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

As they embarked on their journey, He instructed the steward of His household, "Go and reach these individuals, and upon meeting them, question them, 'Why have you repaid good with evil? Is this not the chalice from which my lord drinks, and does he not marvel at it? You have acted most wretchedly.' When the governor caught up with them, he addressed them, 'Why have you reciprocated your benefactor's kindness with malice? Why do you bring deceit even to him who has granted you such tremendous favor? Are you not ashamed of this man’s generosity toward you? What a wicked act! What folly you have committed! Do you not realize that this is the very vessel over which my lord casts spells? Your actions are despicable; your intentions lead to ruin; your excuses are inexcusable; your audacity knows no bounds; it surpasses all forms of evil.'"

The overseer of Joseph pursued them, reaching them on their journey, and filled their ears with ominous threats, just as his master had instructed. As they joyfully left the city, the steward of Joseph caught up to them on the road, hurling fierce accusations at them, threatening them, and labeling them as thieves unworthy of the honor they had received.