Genesis 37

Joseph’s Dreams and His Brothers’ Jealousy (v.1–11):

Joseph, Jacob's favorite son, is introduced. He is 17 years old and tends the flock with his brothers, but his father gives him a colorful robe, which makes his brothers envious.

Joseph has two dreams that further intensify the jealousy of his brothers:

In the first dream, sheaves of wheat bow down to his sheaf, symbolizing his brothers bowing to him.

In the second dream, the sun, moon, and eleven stars bow to him, symbolizing his parents and brothers bowing to him.

When Joseph shares these dreams, his brothers’ jealousy turns to hatred, and even Jacob rebukes him, though he wonders about the meaning of the dreams.

Joseph’s Brothers Plot Against Him (v.12–20):

Jacob sends Joseph to check on his brothers, who are grazing their flocks in Shechem. When they see him approaching, they plot to kill him.

Reuben, the oldest brother, persuades them not to kill Joseph but to throw him into a pit, intending to rescue him later.

When Joseph arrives, they strip him of his robe and throw him into a cistern (dry pit).

They then sit down to eat, showing no remorse, while Joseph is left in the pit.

Joseph is Sold into Slavery (v.21–30):

Reuben is not present when the brothers decide to sell Joseph to Ishmaelite traders on their way to Egypt.

The brothers sell Joseph for twenty shekels of silver, and the traders take him to Egypt.

Reuben returns to the pit and finds Joseph gone, and the brothers are distressed. They deceive Jacob by dipping Joseph’s robe in goat’s blood and making him believe Joseph has been killed by a wild animal.

Jacob’s Grief (v.31–35):

Jacob is devastated by the loss of Joseph, believing he has been torn apart by a wild animal.

He mourns deeply, refusing to be comforted, and declares he will grieve until his death.

Joseph in Potiphar’s House (v.36):

The chapter ends with the Ishmaelite traders arriving in Egypt, and Joseph is sold to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard.

Key Themes:
Favoritism and Jealousy: Jacob’s favoritism toward Joseph leads to deep jealousy and hatred among his brothers. This illustrates the destructive power of favoritism in families.

The Power of Dreams: Joseph’s dreams, though they caused tension, were a reflection of God’s plan for his life. Even though his brothers didn’t understand, Joseph’s future would fulfill these dreams in time.

Betrayal and Deception: Joseph’s brothers betray him out of jealousy, leading to his being sold into slavery. They also deceive their father Jacob, highlighting the destructive nature of lies and deception.

Divine Providence: Despite the evil actions of Joseph’s brothers, God’s hand is at work. Though Joseph is sold into slavery, this event sets the stage for future deliverance and God’s purposes being fulfilled in Egypt.