And so, when they lost all hope of [moving] him, they withdrew to take counsel [among themselves]. The eldest of them said: "Do you not remember that your father has bound you by a solemn pledge before God - and how, before that, you had failed with regard to Joseph? Hence, I shall not depart from this land till my father gives me leave or God passes judgment in my favour: for He is the best of all judges. 80 [And as for you others,] return to your father and say: 'O our father! Behold, thy son has stolen - but we [can] bear witness to no more than what has become known to us; and [although we gave you our pledge,] we could not guard against something that [lay hidden in the future and hence,] was beyond the reach of our perception. 81 You can ask the people of the town where we were and the caravan we met there. We are certainly telling the truth." 82 He [Ya'qub (Jacob)] said: "Nay, but your ownselves have beguiled you into something. So patience is most fitting (for me). May be Allah will bring them (back) all to me. Truly He! only He is All-Knowing, All-Wise." 83 (Jacob) turned away from them saying, "Alas, Joseph is lost!" He wept continuously in his grief until, in suppressing his anger, his eyes turned white. 84 They said, “By Allah, you will keep remembering Yusuf till your health fails you or you lose your life.” 85 He said, “I complain of my worry and grief only to Allah, and I know the great traits of Allah which you do not know.” 86 Go, my sons, and seek news of Joseph and his brother. Do not despair of God's mercy; none but those who deny the truth despair of God's mercy." 87 When they returned to him, they said (to Joseph): "O Minister, calamity has befallen us and our people. We have brought but a meagre sum, but give us full measure as alms bestowed. God surely rewards those who give alms." 88 He said: Know ye what ye did unto Joseph and his brother in your ignorance? 89 They said: 'Are you Joseph' 'I am Joseph' he answered, 'and this is my brother. Allah has been gracious to us. Those who keep from evil and are patient, indeed, Allah does not let the wage of the good doers go to waste' 90 'By Allah' they said, 'Allah has preferred you above us all. We have indeed been sinful' 91 "There is no blame on you today," he said, "May God forgive you. He is the most merciful of all. 92 Take my shirt and put it on my father's face; his eyesight will be restored; and bring your entire family to me." 93