# lay facedown before him

They lay down with their faces toward the ground. This is a sign of humility and respect for Joseph. (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/translate-symaction]])

# Am I in the place of God?

Joseph uses a question to comfort his brothers. AT: "I am not in the place of God." or "I am not God." (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-rquestion]])

# you meant to harm me

"you intended to do evil against me"

# God meant it for good

"God intended it for good"

# So now do not be afraid

"So do not fear me"

# I will provide for you and your little children

"I will always make sure you and your children have enough to eat"

# He comforted them in this way and spoke kindly to their hearts

Here "hearts" refers to the brothers. AT: "He comforted them by speaking kindly to them" (See: [[rc://en/ta/man/translate/figs-synecdoche]])

# translationWords

* [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/servant]]
* [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/fear]]
* [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/good]]
* [[rc://en/tw/dict/bible/other/comfort]]