Verse 99
Joseph • makkah
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Important Words:
سوف (will) is a word used to change the aorist from the present (حال) to the future (مستقبل) denoting postponement. سوف افعل means, I will do (not I do or am doing) such a thing. The Arabs say, فلان یقتات السوف i.e. such a one lives only by means of things hoped for (Lane). See 9:28.
Commentary:
Jacob’s reply to the request of his sons for forgiveness portrays the true inner nature of man. He hints to them in the word سوف (will) that after reconciliation, love and affection do not at once take the place of anger and wrath in the heart of a person. The after-effects of bitterness take some time to disappear. Joseph had been preparing himself for a long time to pardon his brothers, so his forgiveness was full and immediate and he also prayed to God to forgive them. But such was not the case with Jacob. This is why Jacob said that he would take some time to become fully reconciled with them and to be in a position to pray for them, though at the same time he comforted his erring sons by drawing their attention to the great mercy and all-comprehensive forgiveness of God.