Genesis 37:17 - The man said, “They have left here, for I heard them say, ‘Let us go to Dothan.’” Joseph went after his brothers, and found them in Dothan.
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What does "Genesis 37:17" mean?
This verse from Genesis 37:17 is a pivotal point in the story of Joseph and his brothers. It means the following:
"The man said, 'They have left here...'": Joseph was sent by his father, Jacob, to check on his brothers who were tending the flocks. Joseph encountered a man (likely a shepherd or someone who knew the area) who told him that the brothers had moved on from where they were initially located. This indicates that the brothers were nomadic and moved their flocks to find pasture.
"...for I heard them say, 'Let us go to Dothan.'": This is the key piece of information. The man overheard Joseph's brothers discussing their next destination, Dothan. Dothan was a place known for its pasturing lands, located about 15 miles (24 kilometers) north of Shechem, the last known location of Joseph's brothers.
"Joseph went after his brothers...": Despite the brothers having moved, Joseph remained obedient to his father's command and persevered. He continued his search, demonstrating his dedication.
"...and found them in Dothan.": This concludes Joseph's journey. He finally locates his brothers in Dothan. This is the place where the infamous events of Joseph being sold into slavery will unfold.
Significance:
This verse is important for the following reasons:
Sets the Stage: It sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow. Dothan is where the brothers, fueled by jealousy and resentment, plot against Joseph.
Fulfills Jacob's Request: It shows Joseph's commitment to fulfilling his father's request, despite the inconvenience.
Shows Obedience: Joseph's pursuit of his brothers highlights his obedience and loyalty, which are key characteristics in his story.
Illustrates God's Providence: While not explicitly stated, many believe that God's hand is at work, guiding Joseph to Dothan. This is because the events that follow, though initially negative, ultimately lead to Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and the salvation of his family.
Genesis 37:17 - The man said, “They have left here, for I heard them say, ‘Let us go to Dothan.’” Joseph went after his brothers, and found them in Dothan.
What does "Genesis 37:17" mean?
This verse from Genesis 37:17 is a pivotal point in the story of Joseph and his brothers. It means the following:
"The man said, 'They have left here...'": Joseph was sent by his father, Jacob, to check on his brothers who were tending the flocks. Joseph encountered a man (likely a shepherd or someone who knew the area) who told him that the brothers had moved on from where they were initially located. This indicates that the brothers were nomadic and moved their flocks to find pasture.
"...for I heard them say, 'Let us go to Dothan.'": This is the key piece of information. The man overheard Joseph's brothers discussing their next destination, Dothan. Dothan was a place known for its pasturing lands, located about 15 miles (24 kilometers) north of Shechem, the last known location of Joseph's brothers.
"Joseph went after his brothers...": Despite the brothers having moved, Joseph remained obedient to his father's command and persevered. He continued his search, demonstrating his dedication.
"...and found them in Dothan.": This concludes Joseph's journey. He finally locates his brothers in Dothan. This is the place where the infamous events of Joseph being sold into slavery will unfold.
Significance:
This verse is important for the following reasons:
Sets the Stage: It sets the stage for the dramatic events that follow. Dothan is where the brothers, fueled by jealousy and resentment, plot against Joseph.
Fulfills Jacob's Request: It shows Joseph's commitment to fulfilling his father's request, despite the inconvenience.
Shows Obedience: Joseph's pursuit of his brothers highlights his obedience and loyalty, which are key characteristics in his story.
Illustrates God's Providence: While not explicitly stated, many believe that God's hand is at work, guiding Joseph to Dothan. This is because the events that follow, though initially negative, ultimately lead to Joseph's rise to power in Egypt and the salvation of his family.