weep, clearly because the brothers’ mistrust in him has been reawakened; perhaps too he is moved by remembrance of the events that had led to the reconciliation. [50:18*] The brothers now approach him themselves (vv. 18–20*). They have no need to repeat their request; as often, a gesture is enough; they prostrate themselves before him (v. 18a*). But they give further strength to their request with the offer, “We will be your slaves”; they speak conscious of their guilt aroused once more (v. 18b*).