Clarke's Bible Commentary - Genesis 40:1
Verse 1. The butler] hqm mashkeh, the same as saky among the Arabians and Persians, and signifying a cup-bearer. Baker] hpa opheh; rather cook, confectioner, or the like.
Had offended] They had probably been accused of attempting to take away the king's life, one by poisoning his drink, the other by poisoning his bread or confectionaries.
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
ויהי 1961 אחר 310 הדברים 1697 האלה 428 חטאו 2398 משׁקה 4945 מלך 4428 מצרים 4714 והאפה 644 לאדניהם 113 למלך 4428 מצרים׃ 4714
