Then he washed his face and came out. With composure he said, “Set out the food.”

But Haman restrained himself and went on to his home. He then sent for his friends to join him, along with his wife Zeresh.

“I have been inactive for a long time; I kept quiet and held back. Like a woman in labor I groan; I pant and gasp.

In light of all this, how can you still hold back, Lord? How can you be silent and continue to humiliate us?

I thought, ‘Now the Philistines will come down on me at Gilgal and I have not sought the Lord’s favor.’ So I felt obligated to offer the burnt offering.”

Look down from heaven and take notice, from your holy, majestic palace! Where are your zeal and power? Do not hold back your tender compassion!

Joseph was no longer able to control himself before all his attendants, so he cried out, “Make everyone go out from my presence!” No one remained with Joseph when he made himself known to his brothers.