Genesis 45:1 (BSB)

Then Joseph could no longer control himself before all his attendants, and he cried out, “Send everyone away from me!” So none of them were with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers.

From Genesis 45. Also in the ESV.

Commentary on Genesis 45:1

  • John Calvin (Reformed), Calvin's Commentaries on Genesis 45:1: 1. Then Joseph could not refrain himself The division of chapters in this place is singularly unhappy. It interrupts one of the most touching scenes recorded in the sacred volume, just in the middle. It separates the irrestible appeal of Judah to the feelings of Joseph from its immediate and happy effect.
  • Matthew Henry (Presbyterian), Matthew Henry's Complete Commentary on Genesis 45:1-15: Judah and his brethren were waiting for an answer, and could not but be amazed to discover, instead of the gravity of a judge, the natural affection of a father or brother. I. Joseph ordered all his attendants to withdraw, Gen 45:1. The private conversations of friends are the most free.
  • John Gill (Reformed Baptist), Exposition of the Old and New Testaments on Genesis 45:1: Then Joseph could not refrain himself,.... That he should not weep, as the Targum of Jonathan adds; at least he could not much longer refrain from tears, such an effect Judah's speech had on his passions: before all them that stood before him; his servants that attended him and waited upon him, the steward of his house, and others, upon whose account he put such...
  • Geneva Bible Notes (Reformed), Geneva Bible Study Notes on Genesis 45:1: Then Joseph could not refrain himself before all them that stood by him; and he cried, Cause every man to go out from me. And there stood no man with him, while Joseph made himself known unto his brethren. (a) Not because he was ashamed of his kindred, but rather because he wanted to cover his brother's sin.