Genesis 45:4

II. THE BROTHER REVEALED.

4. Come near to me,. pray you.

They stood afar off in amazement and fear. He invites them in tenderness and love to come near. They felt the power of his gracious manner, and confidence began to revive. They draw near, although they do not seem to fully realize yet who is speaking to them. He had before said, "I am Joseph." Now he adds more, so much that they cannot fail to perceive who it is that speaks.

I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold.

He spoke of their having sold him, not to wound their feelings, but to convince them of his identity, and then to reassure their minds he traced all to an overruling Providence who had exalted him in his exile and made him the savior of Egypt and his brethren.

They had before known him only by his Egyptian name, or title, of Zaphnath-paaneah. The name Joseph was unheard in Egypt.