My son shall not— Nothing can be more tender and picturesque than these words of the venerable old patriarch. Full of affection for his beloved Rachel, he cannot think of parting with Benjamin, the only remaining pledge of their love, now that Joseph, as he supposes, is no more. We seem to behold the grey-headed venerable father pleading with his sons; the beloved Benjamin standing by his side; impatient sorrow in their countenances, and in his all the bleeding anxiety of paternal love. It will be difficult, I believe, to find in any author, ancient or modern, a more exquisite picture.
Related Commentaries of Genesis 42:38
Genesis 42:38
38 And he said, My son shall not go down with you; for his brother is dead, and he is left alone: if mischief befall him by the way in the which ye go, then shall ye bring down my gray hairs with sorrow to the grave.