16 And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying, Thy father did command before he died, saying,
16 So they sent word to Joseph, saying, "Your father left these instructions before he died:
16 So they sent a message to Joseph, saying, "Your father gave this command before he died,
16 So they sent Joseph a message, "Before his death, your father gave this command:
16 So they sent messengers to Joseph, saying, "Before your father died he commanded, saying,
16 So they sent this message to Joseph: "Before your father died, he instructed us
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 50:16
Commentary on Genesis 50:15-21
(Read Genesis 50:15-21)
Various motives might cause the sons of Jacob to continue in Egypt, notwithstanding the prophetic vision Abraham had of their bondage there. Judging of Joseph from the general temper of human nature, they thought he would now avenge himself on those who hated and injured him without cause. Not being able to resist, or to flee away, they attempted to soften him by humbling themselves. They pleaded with him as the servants of Jacob's God. Joseph was much affected at seeing this complete fulfilment of his dreams. He directs them not to fear him, but to fear God; to humble themselves before the Lord, and to seek the Divine forgiveness. He assures them of his own kindness to them. See what an excellent spirit Joseph was of, and learn of him to render good for evil. He comforted them, and, to banish all their fears, he spake kindly to them. Broken spirits must be bound up and encouraged. Those we love and forgive, we must not only do well for, but speak kindly to.