John Calvin Commentary Genesis 42:22

"And Reuben answered them, saying, Spake I not unto you, saying, Do not sin against the child; and ye would not hear? therefore also, behold, his blood is required." — Genesis 42:22 (ASV)

And Reuben answered them. Because he had attempted to deliver Joseph from the hands of his brothers, in order to restore him safely to his father, he magnifies their fault for not having, at that time, listened to any wise counsel; and I understand his words as conveying a reproof for their too late repentance.

Although Joseph was not yet satisfied with this confession, but kept Simeon in bonds and sent the others away in suspense and perplexity, this was not done from malevolence, but because he was not certain about the safety of his brother Benjamin and the condition of his father’s household. For he might justly fear that, when they found their wicked scheme of putting their brother to death had been discovered, they might again attempt some horrible crime, as desperate men are accustomed to do, or at least might desert their father and flee to another country.

Nevertheless, Joseph’s act is not to be taken as a precedent, because it is not always right to be so austere. We ought also to be careful that the offender is not overwhelmed by grief, if we are not gentle and disposed to forgiveness.

Therefore, we must seek the spirit of discretion from heaven, which will so govern us that we do nothing by rash impetuosity or immoderate severity. Indeed, it is to be remembered that beneath Joseph’s stern countenance was concealed not only a mild and placid disposition but also the most tender affection.