1779 Certainly metaphorically: probably also literally. By Eastern custom the place of honour at a ceremonial reception is on a seat on a dais, with a special cushion of honour, such as is assigned to a bridegroom at his reception. To show his high respect for his parents, Joseph made them sit on a throne of dignity. On the other hand, his parents and his brothers—all performed the ceremony of prostration before Joseph in recognition of his supreme rank in Egypt under the Pharaoh, And thus was fulfilled the dream or vision of his youth (
12:4 above, and n. 1633). 1779-A The ceremony of prostration for paying respect might have been allowed at the time of previous prophets, but with the advent of the complete and final revelation prostration before anyone other than Allah is a grave sin strictly prohibited. (Eds.). 1780 1780