Genesis 40:19

Lift up thy head— It is added, from off thee: shall take off thy head, and shall hang thee (thy carcase afterwards) on a tree; for it was usual first to behead the criminal, and then to hang him up: hence Jeremiah says, princes were hanged up by their hands, Lamentations 5:12 intimating, that their heads were first cut off. See 1 Samuel 31:9. and more examples in Calmet.

REFLECTIONS.—We have here,

1. Two extraordinary dreams, which happened to two of the prisoners under Joseph's care. Much affected with the visions on their bed, their countenances bore the deep impression, and Joseph in the morning, with kind solicitude, could not but inquire into the cause of their dejection. Note; (1.) God has arrows in his quiver, which, without a visible cause, can damp the spirits of the mighty. Could we look into sinners' hearts, we should find distresses there, which only themselves know. (2.) It is kind to be solicitous about our neighbours' happiness; and, especially when they appear dejected, to reach out the tender hand of comfort.

2. They relate their dreams, and Joseph interprets them. The butler's dream is the happy presage of his restoration; the baker's, of an ignominious death. Note; Communications of our griefs to godly men, is the ready way to receive solution of our doubts, or comfort in our afflictions.

3. Joseph's modest request to the butler. As he was innocently a prisoner, he wishes for an enlargement, and, without reflecting on his persecutors, begs only a remembrance of him, when the butler should be restored to his lost dignity. Note; (1.) Though we may be content with servitude, yet, if we can be free, we may choose it rather. (2.) In exculpating ourselves, we cannot be too careful to avoid reflecting upon those who have injured us.