1 Jacob lived in the land of his father’s sojournings, in the land of Canaan.
2 These are the generations of Jacob. Joseph, being seventeen years old, was pasturing the flock with his brothers. He was a boy with the sons of Bilhah and Zilpah, his father’s wives. And Joseph brought a bad report of them to their father.
3 Now Israel loved Joseph more than any other of his sons, because he was the son of his old age. And he made him a robe of many colors.
4 But when his brothers saw that their father loved him more than all his brothers, they hated him and could not speak peacefully to him.
5 Now Joseph had a dream, and when he told it to his brothers they hated him even more.
6 He said to them, “Hear this dream that I have dreamed:
7 For behold, we were binding sheaves in the field, and behold, my sheaf arose and stood upright.
8 His brothers said to him, “Are you indeed to reign over us? Or are you indeed to rule over us?” So they hated him even more for his dreams and for his words.
9 Then he dreamed another dream and told it to his brothers and said, “Behold, I have dreamed another dream. Behold, the sun, the moon, and eleven stars were bowing down to me.”
10 But when he told it to his father and to his brothers, his father rebuked him and said to him, “What is this dream that you have dreamed? Shall I and your mother and your brothers indeed come to bow ourselves to the ground before you?”
11 And his brothers were jealous of him, but his father kept the saying in mind.
12 Now his brothers went to pasture their father’s flock near Shechem.
13 And Israel said to Joseph, “Are not your brothers pasturing the flock at Shechem? Come, I will send you to them.” And he said to him, “Here I am.”
14 So he said to him, “Go now, see if it is well with your brothers and with the flock, and bring me word.” So he sent him from the Valley of Hebron, and he came to Shechem.
15 And a man found him wandering in the fields. And the man asked him, “What are you seeking?”
16 And he said, “I am seeking my brothers. Please tell me where they are pasturing the flock.”
17 And the man said, “They have gone away, for I heard them say, ‘Let us go to Dothan.’” So Joseph went after his brothers and found them at Dothan.
18 They saw him from afar, and before he came near to them they conspired against him to kill him.
19 They said to one another, “Here comes this dreamer.
20 Come now, let us kill him and throw him into one of the pits. Then we will say that a fierce animal has devoured him, and we will see what will become of his dreams.”
21 But when Reuben heard it, he rescued him out of their hands, saying, “Let us not take his life.”
22 And Reuben said to them, “Shed no blood; throw him into this pit here in the wilderness, but do not lay a hand on him”—that he might rescue him out of their hand to restore him to his father.
23 So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe, the robe of many colors that he wore.
24 Then they took him and threw him into a pit. The pit was empty; there was no water in it.
25 Then they sat down to eat. And looking up they saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead, with their camels bearing gum, balm, and myrrh, on their way to carry it down to Egypt.
26 Then Judah said to his brothers, “What profit is it if we kill our brother and conceal his blood?
27 Come, let us sell him to the Ishmaelites, and let not our hand be upon him, for he is our brother, our own flesh.” And his brothers listened to him.
28 Then Midianite traders passed by. And they drew Joseph up and lifted him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver. They took Joseph to Egypt.
29 When Reuben returned to the pit and saw that Joseph was not in the pit, he tore his clothes.
30 Then he returned to his brothers and said, “The boy is gone, and I, where shall I go?”
31 Then they took Joseph’s robe and slaughtered a goat and dipped the robe in the blood.
32 Then they sent the robe of many colors and brought it to their father and said, “This we have found; please identify whether it is your son’s robe or not.”
33 And he identified it and said, “It is my son’s robe. A fierce animal has devoured him. Joseph is without doubt torn to pieces.”
34 Then Jacob tore his garments and put sackcloth on his loins and mourned for his son many days.
35 All his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort him, but he refused to be comforted and said, “No, I shall go down to Sheol to my son, mourning.” Thus his father wept for him.
36 Meanwhile the Midianites had sold him in Egypt to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the guard.
The True Meaning of Genesis 37
The book of Genesis, the first book of the Bible, was written by Moses, the great prophet and leader of the Israelites. We witness the unfolding of a family drama in this chapter that would have far-reaching consequences for the chosen people of God.
The chapter centers around Joseph, the beloved son of Jacob, and the jealousy that arises among his brothers. We see how Joseph’s dreams and his father’s favoritism towards him sow the seeds of discord within the family. This sets the stage for a series of events that will test the faith and resilience of the Israelites, as they navigate the challenges that lie ahead.
The chapter also foreshadows the eventual journey of the Israelites to Egypt, as Joseph’s brothers, driven by their envy, sell him into slavery, unaware that this will ultimately lead to the preservation of their family during a time of famine (Genesis 45:4-8). This event is a testament to the sovereignty of God, who can use even the most difficult circumstances to fulfill His divine plan.
Genesis 37:1-4
The story of Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, unfolds in Genesis 37:1-4. The section begins by describing Jacob living in the land of Canaan, the same land where God had promised to bless Abraham and his descendants. Jacob loved Joseph more than any of his other sons because he was born to him in his old age, leading him to make him a richly ornamented robe. This act of favoritism caused jealousy and resentment among Joseph’s brothers.
The richly ornamented robe, often referred to as the “coat of many colors” in traditional interpretations, signified Joseph’s special position in the family as the favored son. This robe was a symbol of not just Jacob’s love for Joseph but also a tangible representation of his favoritism. This favoritism led to bitterness and animosity among Joseph’s brothers, setting the stage for the events that would follow.
The theme of favoritism and its consequences is a recurring one in the Bible. The consequences of Jacob’s overt favoritism would have a profound impact on his family, leading to betrayal, deceit, and ultimately, reconciliation. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of showing partiality and favoritism within families, as it can lead to division and strife.
The jealousy and resentment that Joseph’s brothers felt towards him foreshadows the betrayal and mistreatment that Joseph would later experience at their hands. While Jacob’s actions may have been well-intentioned in showing love to his son, the favoritism ultimately caused a rift within the family that would have lasting repercussions.
This passage sets the stage for the unfolding drama of Joseph’s life, illustrating the complexities of family dynamics, the consequences of favoritism, and the theme of God’s sovereignty working through human actions and emotions. It lays the foundation for the trials and triumphs that Joseph would face, ultimately leading to his rise to power in Egypt and the reconciliation with his brothers. The story of Joseph highlights God’s faithfulness and providence even in the midst of betrayal and hardship, showcasing how His plans can ultimately bring about redemption and reconciliation.
Genesis 37:5-11
Joseph has a dream in Genesis 37:5-11 and shares it with his brothers, leading to jealousy and animosity towards him. This section unfolds with Joseph describing his dream to his brothers, telling them that they were binding sheaves in the field when suddenly his sheaf rose and stood upright while their sheaves gathered around and bowed down to his sheaf. This dream was symbolic of Joseph rising to a position of power and authority over his brothers.
Joseph’s open sharing of this dream with his brothers reflects his youthful innocence and perhaps some naivety. Joseph may not have fully grasped the implications of his dream, nor the resentment and envy it could stir among his brothers. This event foreshadows the trials and tribulations Joseph will face due to his special calling and favor from God.
The brothers’ reaction to Joseph’s dream is one of disdain and jealousy. They ridicule him, questioning his intentions and suggesting that he seeks to rule over them. Their reaction reveals the deep-seated jealousy and rivalry present among the brothers due to the favoritism their father Jacob has shown towards Joseph. This jealousy ultimately leads to the brothers’ betrayal of Joseph by selling him into slavery. This event in the broader context of the Bible sets the stage for the fulfillment of God’s plan for Joseph, as well as the salvation of Jacob’s family. Joseph’s dreams, which will later be interpreted in Egypt, serve as a way for God to communicate his divine plan and purpose for Joseph and his family. Although the brothers’ actions are driven by envy and malice, God will ultimately use these events to bring about his greater purposes.
This passage also highlights the theme of sibling rivalry and the consequences of jealousy. The story of Joseph and his brothers serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of jealousy and the importance of humility and forgiveness. It reminds us of the harm that can be caused when one allows envy to fester in their hearts, leading to betrayal and broken relationships. We can draw parallels between Joseph and Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Both were beloved by their fathers, rejected by their own people, and betrayed by those closest to them. However, through their suffering and eventual exaltation, both Joseph and Jesus played crucial roles in bringing about salvation and redemption for their people. The story of Joseph’s dream in Genesis 37:5-11 teaches us about the sovereignty of God, the consequences of jealousy and betrayal, and the importance of remaining faithful to God’s plan even in the face of adversity. It reminds us that God can use even the most challenging circumstances for His glory and to fulfill His divine purposes.
Genesis 37:12-17
A pivotal moment in the life of Joseph, one of the sons of Jacob, is seen in Genesis 37:12-17. The passage begins with Jacob sending Joseph to check on his brothers who were pasturing their father’s flock in Shechem. This action seems innocent enough, a father concerned for his sons and wanting to ensure they are safe. However, this seemingly simple request sets off a chain of events that will ultimately lead to Joseph being sold into slavery and his journey towards becoming a powerful figure in Egypt.
When Joseph arrives in Shechem, he cannot find his brothers, and a man tells him they have moved on to Dothan. We see a foreshadowing of the trials and challenges Joseph will face as he continues his journey to find them, unknowingly stepping into his destiny. This journey mirrors the path he will take in life – full of unexpected twists and turns, leading him to both triumph and tribulation.
The significance of this passage lies in Joseph’s obedience to his father. Despite knowing that his brothers may not have the best intentions towards him due to their jealousy over his favored status, Joseph does not hesitate to fulfill his father’s request. This act of obedience is a powerful example of honoring one’s parents and following through on responsibilities, even in the face of potential danger or adversity. This theme of obedience and respect towards parents is echoed throughout the Bible in verses such as Ephesians 6:1-3, which instructs children to obey their parents in the Lord. Joseph’s journey to find his brothers can also be seen as a metaphor for our own spiritual journeys. Just as Joseph faced trials and uncertainties on his way to Dothan, we too encounter challenges and obstacles on the path towards fulfilling our own God-given purposes. This passage serves as a reminder that God is always with us, guiding us through difficult times and shaping us into the people He intends us to be, just as He did with Joseph. Genesis 37:12-17 sets the stage for the extraordinary story of Joseph, illustrating themes of obedience, faithfulness, and the sovereignty of God in shaping our destinies. Joseph’s willingness to obey his father and walk into the unknown foreshadows the incredible journey he is about to embark on, ultimately showcasing the faithfulness and providence of God in all circumstances.
Genesis 37:18-24
Jacob sent Joseph to check on his brothers who were tending their flocks in Shechem, as seen in Genesis 37:18-24. This passage is a crucial turning point in Joseph’s life, setting the stage for the events that will eventually lead to his rise to power in Egypt.
Firstly, Joseph’s brothers see him from a distance and conspire to kill him out of jealousy and resentment. This jealousy stemmed from Jacob’s favoritism towards Joseph, exemplified by the coat of many colors that Jacob had given him. This episode highlights the destructive power of jealousy and sibling rivalry, leading to the eventual fracturing of the family and causing immense pain and suffering.
When Reuben, the eldest brother, hears of the plan to kill Joseph, he intervenes and suggests throwing him into a pit instead. Reuben’s intention was to later rescue Joseph and return him to their father. This shows a glimmer of compassion and mercy in the midst of the brothers’ sinister plot. It also hints at the theme of redemption and the possibility of change and growth, even in the face of dark intentions. Joseph’s brothers strip him of his ornate robe and throw him into a pit as he approaches them. This act of stripping Joseph of his special garment symbolizes stripping him of his identity and his father’s love and protection. The pit represents a place of isolation, darkness, and despair, reflecting Joseph’s bleak situation at the hands of his own brothers.
This passage foreshadows Joseph’s eventual journey from the pit to the palace. It sets the stage for the trials and tribulations Joseph will face in the chapters to come, such as being sold into slavery and later imprisoned in Egypt. Through these trials, Joseph will demonstrate resilience, faithfulness, and ultimately, forgiveness and reconciliation with his brothers.
The story of Joseph in Genesis is not just a historical account but also carries timeless messages and themes that resonate with readers today. It speaks to the importance of family dynamics, the consequences of jealousy and betrayal, the power of forgiveness, and the providence and faithfulness of God in the face of adversity. Joseph’s story serves as a powerful example of how God can work through the most challenging circumstances to bring about redemption and restoration.
Genesis 37:25-28
Joseph’s brothers conspire against him out of jealousy and sell him into slavery in Genesis 37:25-28. This act of betrayal sets the stage for the incredible journey of Joseph and highlights themes of family dynamics, envy, and divine providence in the book of Genesis.
The section begins with Joseph’s brothers sitting down to eat a meal while they see a caravan of Ishmaelites passing by on their way to Egypt. The brothers then hatch a plan to sell Joseph to the Ishmaelites rather than kill him, as initially suggested by Judah. This decision allows the brothers to profit monetarily from their treachery rather than simply committing fratricide.
This betrayal of Joseph by his own brothers reflects the depths of human jealousy and the consequences of sibling rivalry. The brothers’ envy of Joseph, stemming from his favored status in their father’s eyes, drives them to commit this heinous act. This aspect of sibling rivalry and familial betrayal is a recurring theme in the Bible, such as the story of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4, which also illustrates the destructive power of jealousy within families.
The brothers’ actions against Joseph also serve to fulfill God’s larger plan for Joseph’s life. While the brothers intend harm through their betrayal, God uses their actions to set in motion a series of events that will ultimately lead to Joseph’s rise to power in Egypt and the fulfillment of the divine plan for the nation of Israel. This theme of God working through human frailty and sin to bring about His purposes is a consistent motif throughout the Bible, demonstrating God’s sovereignty over all circumstances. This passage in Genesis 37 underscores the complex interplay of human choices and God’s providential plan. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of jealousy and betrayal within families, while also showcasing God’s ability to orchestrate events for His ultimate purposes. God can bring good out of even the darkest moments of betrayal and injustice, offering hope and redemption to those who trust in Him as the story of Joseph unfolds.
Genesis 37:29-36
The aftermath of Joseph being sold into slavery by his brothers is read about in Genesis 37:29-36. Let’s break down this passage into key sections for a deeper understanding.
Firstly, Jacob’s reaction upon realizing that Joseph had been attacked and sold into slavery by his brothers is a heart-wrenching moment in the narrative. Jacob tears his clothes, a sign of deep sorrow and mourning in Jewish culture. This reaction highlights the strong bond Jacob had with Joseph, who was the son of his old age and favorite among his children. The cloak of many colors, given to Joseph by his father, is presented to Jacob covered in blood, leading him to conclude that his beloved son had been devoured by a wild animal. This event foreshadows the deception that will be perpetuated against Jacob himself when Joseph’s brothers will dip this same coat in goat’s blood to deceive their father into thinking that Joseph had been killed by a wild beast (Genesis 37:31-35).
The selling of Joseph into slavery by his brothers sheds light on the themes of jealousy, betrayal, and the consequences of family dysfunction. The jealousy felt by Joseph’s brothers towards him, fueled by their father’s favoritism, results in them committing a grave sin by selling their own brother. This act of betrayal not only alters the course of Joseph’s life but also brings immense pain and guilt upon his brothers, as they deceive their father into believing that Joseph is dead. This event serves as a stark reminder of the destructive power of envy and the importance of family unity and love.
The passage also demonstrates how God can work through even the darkest circumstances for the greater good. Despite being sold into slavery and facing numerous trials and tribulations, Joseph’s story does not end in despair. Through a series of events orchestrated by God, Joseph rises from being a slave to becoming a powerful ruler in Egypt, ultimately saving his family and the people of Egypt from a severe famine. This narrative of redemption and forgiveness in Joseph’s story serves as a powerful testament to God’s faithfulness and His ability to turn suffering into blessings. The story of Joseph in Genesis 37 foreshadows the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and the fulfillment of God’s plans in the broader context of the Bible. Joseph’s journey from betrayal and slavery to power and forgiveness mirrors the redemptive work of Christ in the New Testament. Just as Joseph’s suffering ultimately leads to the salvation of his family, Jesus’s sacrificial death on the cross paves the way for the redemption of humanity. The story of Joseph serves as a profound example of how God can use even the most difficult circumstances to fulfill His purposes and bring about His greater plan for His people.
After Genesis 37
The brothers’ jealousy of Joseph had reached a boiling point. They plotted against him, stripping him of his special robe and throwing him into a pit. Deceiving their father, they told him that a wild animal had killed Joseph. But the Lord had a plan, and Joseph’s journey was far from over. Little did the brothers know the trials that awaited them and the ways in which God would use this situation to bring about His greater purpose as they celebrated their perceived victory.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.