At the climax of his revelation, Joseph presents his brothers with a profound perspective on history and faith, transforming a moment of intense guilt and fear into a powerful declaration of Divine providence. His primary goal is to uproot any worry of revenge or lingering resentment regarding his sale into slavery.
The commentators agree that Joseph seeks to completely remove the brothers' feelings of guilt over their actions. He explains that when looking at the miraculous outcome of saving a vast number of lives, it becomes clear that the entire chain of events was dictated by the will of God. In this Divine arrangement, the brothers were merely instruments carrying out God's plan, lacking true agency in the matter, and therefore he has absolutely no reason to harbor hatred toward them [ספורנו, מלבי״ם, אור החיים]. Furthermore, recognizing that this was a Divine decree is meant to give the brothers the courage to face their father, Jacob, without shame, knowing that the descent into Egypt was preordained by Heaven [אור החיים].
Beyond mere reconciliation, other commentators emphasize that Joseph's words serve as practical preparation for the future. He explains that his immense power is proof that the family must migrate to Egypt. If the brothers were solely responsible for his arrival, they might simply expect him to send food back to Canaan. However, because God directed these events and granted him such absolute authority, it serves as a clear sign that the Divine plan requires the entire family to move to Egypt. It also demonstrates that he has the necessary power to secure the land of Goshen for them [העמק דבר].
Joseph then details the extent of his greatness, emphasizing again that it was not his brothers who sent him, but rather God [רשב״ם, ביאור יש״ר, יהל אור]. He describes his relationship with the king not in literal terms, but as a position of supreme guidance. The primary approach among commentators is that he serves as a senior advisor and leader; Pharaoh relies completely on his counsel, much like a son depends on a father, and no action is taken without his approval [אבן עזרא, ספורנו, רלב״ג, קונטרס חיבה יתירה, רש״ר הירש]. Another perspective views him as both a patron and a friend to Pharaoh. This dual role balances his status: while he independently leads the kingdom and issues decrees, remaining a partner ensures he does not appear to usurp the king's supreme authority [רש״י, מזרחי, גור אריה, דברי דוד].
Joseph's appointment over the royal palace further cements his status. Some interpret this as an honorary distinction, showing that everyone defers to his judgment [העמק דבר], while others view it as practical authority, meaning all members of Pharaoh's household are essentially his servants [ספורנו, הכתב והקבלה]. Finally, his absolute rule over the entire land of Egypt reflects his practical control over the daily affairs of the nation. This total dominance empowers Joseph to manage the country as he sees fit, thereby guaranteeing the survival and security of his family upon their arrival [ספורנו, העמק דבר].