ABSTRACT
In the Christian Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs as in The Fathers, “Joseph is set forth as the exemplar of purity, righteousness, and that generous spirit of love, good will and forgiveness which good men must oppose to the envy and malice of their foes.” There are also those who see deficiencies in his character and wonder how the different sides of Joseph can be reconciled. Joseph “acted like a stranger toward them and spoke harshly to them”. In this abrupt sentence people learn that the tables have been turned. Whereas before they recognized his dreams of mastery when he did not, Joseph now recognizes his brothers, though they do not recognize him. Joseph now knows that his brothers feel guilty about what they did to him. The variety of human motivation is never more evident. Returning the money his brothers paid is in one way a benevolent gesture, showing that whatever he is doing is not for pecuniary gain.
