Joseph made ready his chariot: made ready translates the verb to “tie” or “bind,” and in this context it refers to harnessing or hitching horses to the chariot. It is actually Joseph’s servants who would harness the horse or horses to the chariot. Consequently it may be better to say, for example, “Joseph ordered his chariot,” “Joseph had his chariot brought to him,” or “Joseph told his servants to get his chariot ready.” For chariot see 41.43.

To meet Israel: that is, “Jacob.”

He presented himself to him: this expression is often used in the Old Testament referring to God appearing to someone. In this context it is not to be thought of as Joseph introducing himself to Jacob as a stranger might do. Joseph does not come to his father as the ruler of Egypt but as his long lost son. Bible en français courant gives a good model: “As soon as he was in his father’s presence, he….” Also good are Good News Translation, Revised English Bible: “When they met….”

And fell on his neck, and wept on his neck: see 45.14.

Quoted with permission from Reyburn, William D. and Fry, Euan McG. A Handbook on Genesis. (UBS Helps for Translators). New York: UBS, 1997. For this and other handbooks for translators see here .