Adam Clarke's Bible Commentary Verse 4. They continued a season] µymy yamim, literally days; how long we cannot tell. But many suppose the word signifies a complete year; and as Pharaoh called them to an account on his birthday, ver. 20, Calmet supposes they had offended on the preceding birthday, and thus had been one whole year in prison.
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 1-19 - It was not so much the prison that made the butler and baker sad, a their dreams. God has more ways than one to sadden the spirits. Josep had compassion towards them. Let us be concerned for the sadness of ou brethren's countenances. It is often a relief to those that are in trouble to be noticed. Also learn to look into the causes of our ow sorrow. Is there a good reason? Is there not comfort sufficient to balance it, whatever it is? Why art thou cast down, O my soul? Josep was careful to ascribe the glory to God. The chief butler's drea foretold his advancement. The chief baker's dream his death. It was no Joseph's fault that he brought the baker no better tidings. And thu ministers are but interpreters; they cannot make the thing otherwis than it is: if they deal faithfully, and their message prove unpleasing, it is not their fault. Joseph does not reflect upon his brethren that sold him; nor does he reflect on the wrong done him by his mistress and his master, but mildly states his own innocence. When we are called on to clear ourselves, we should carefully avoid, as muc as may be, speaking ill of others. Let us be content to prove ourselve innocent, and not upbraid others with their guilt.
Original Hebrew ויפקד6485 שׂר8269 הטבחים2876 את853 יוסף3130 אתם854 וישׁרת8334 אתם853 ויהיו1961 ימים3117 במשׁמר׃4929
