Genesis 42:24

wept Cf. Genesis 43:30. Joseph's feelings are deeply stirred by overhearing words that indicate his brethren's contrition for their inhuman conduct towards himself.

Simeon Simeon was selected to be retained in prison as the next oldest after Reuben. Reuben may have been spared, either for his previous kindness, or because, as the eldest, he would be responsible for carrying the report to Jacob. That Simeon was also the most cruel is an inference from Genesis 34:25 and Genesis 49:5-7, taken in conjunction with the present passage. The retention of Simeon provided a pledge tor the return of the others; which otherwise might be rendered improbable through fear of further harshness from "the lord of the land." The return of their money and the gift of "provision" are meant also to stir their feelings.