Genesis 50:16 - Clarke's commentary and critical notes on the Bible

And they sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying, Thy father did command before he died, saying, Thy father did command - Whether he did or not we cannot tell. Some think they had feigned this story, but that is not so likely. Jacob might have had suspicions too, and might have thought that the best way to prevent evil was to humble themselves before their brother, and get a fresh assurance of his forgiveness.