Genesis 37

Commentary

Genesis 37 is the story of Joseph, the favored son of Jacob. Joseph is the eleventh son of Jacob, and his father has given him a special coat of many colors. This causes Joseph's brothers to be jealous of him, and they plot to kill him. However, they decide instead to sell him into slavery in Egypt. The chapter begins with Joseph being sent by his father to check on his brothers, who are tending the flocks in Shechem. When Joseph arrives, his brothers are so jealous of him that they conspire to kill him. Reuben, the eldest brother, suggests that they throw Joseph into a pit instead. The brothers then strip Joseph of his coat and sell him to a caravan of Ishmaelites, who take him to Egypt. The chapter ends with Jacob mourning the loss of his son, believing that Joseph has been killed by a wild animal. The story of Joseph's betrayal by his brothers and his subsequent rise to power in Egypt is one of the most famous stories in the Bible. It serves as a reminder of the power of God's providence and the importance of faith in difficult times. It also serves as a warning against envy and jealousy, which can lead to destructive behavior.