d
involve; Judah's willingness to sacrifice
himself.

What light does the speech throw upon Judah's
character? It shows a capacity for intense
feeling, a deep devotion to his father, and a
spirit of self-sacrifice. It might indicate
also a shrewd knowledge of human nature, for he
apparently knows how to present the case in the
most effective manner.

What is the meaning of "thou art even as
Pharaoh"? Thou art as mighty as the king of
Egypt.

Explain "thy servant became surety for the lad
unto my father". Judah had given Jacob a
guarantee that Benjamin should return safely.

Select any figurative expression and give its
meaning. "Thy servants shall bring down the
gray hairs of thy servant our father with
sorrow to the grave." The blow which separation
from Benjamin would involve will cause the aged
father to die of a broken heart.

What are the main characteristics of the
supplication? The language is simple and
direct, the feeling is of the loftiest
character, and the whole speech is highly
eloquent. If the test of true eloquence is the
intensity of the appeal it makes to worthy
emotions, this passage may well be regarded as
one of the most eloquent in all literature.

Paragraph III

Did Joseph purposely select this as the most
fitting moment to reveal himself? No. He
revealed himself because he could not help it
and because Judah's appeal had so worked upon
his feelings. The first sentence of the
paragraph indicates this.

Why did he send every man away except his
brothers? He did not wish others to see his own
lack of self-control or his brothers' shame and
embarrassment. Moreover, it was a solemn
situation, too sacred for vulgar eyes to gaze
upon.

We are told that he "wept aloud", that "he fell
upon his brother Benjamin's neck, and wept",
that "he kissed all his brethren", etc. Is he
unduly demonstrative? Eastern people are much
more emotional and demonstrative than Western
people.

Why did he have to repeat his assurance that he
was Joseph? The first announcement was so
amazing that it seemed incred