Why was Simeon bound?

He turned away from them and wept. But when he returned to them and spoke to them, he took Simeon from them and bound him before their eyes. (Genesis 42:24)

Before this, Joseph’s brothers were talking amongst themselves in their native tongue and did not think Joseph could understand because he was using an interpreter.

According to Genesis 29:33, Simeon’s name means “heard”

He heard them.

References

Genesis 42:24 – Simeon bound

Genesis 29:33 – Simeon receives his name

Hebrews 4:13 – And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.