4 But Benjamin, Joseph's brother, Jacob sent not with his brethren; for he said, Lest peradventure mischief befall him.

Other Translations of Genesis 42:4

New International Version

4 But Jacob did not send Benjamin, Joseph's brother, with the others, because he was afraid that harm might come to him.

English Standard Version

4 But Jacob did not send Benjamin, Joseph's brother, with his brothers, for he feared that harm might happen to him.

The Message

4 Jacob didn't send Joseph's brother Benjamin with them; he was afraid that something bad might happen to him.

New King James Version

4 But Jacob did not send Joseph's brother Benjamin with his brothers, for he said, "Lest some calamity befall him."

New Living Translation

4 But Jacob wouldn't let Joseph's younger brother, Benjamin, go with them, for fear some harm might come to him.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Genesis 42:4

Commentary on Genesis 42:1-6

(Read Genesis 42:1-6)

Jacob saw the corn his neighbours had bought in Egypt, and brought home. It is a spur to exertion to see others supplied. Shall others get food for their souls, and shall we starve while it is to be had? Having discovered where help is to be had, we should apply for it without delay, without shrinking from labour, or grudging expense, especially as regards our never-dying souls. There is provision in Christ; but we must come to him, and seek it from him.