Genesis 37 tells the story of Joseph and his brothers. Verse 19, "They said to one another, “Behold, this dreamer comes," is a sneering remark spoken by Joseph's brothers. It's important to understand the context to fully grasp the meaning:
Joseph's Dreams: Joseph had been sharing his dreams with his brothers, dreams in which they all bowed down to him (Genesis 37:5-11). These dreams, combined with their father Jacob's obvious favoritism towards Joseph, fueled their jealousy and hatred.
"This dreamer": The brothers use this term derisively. It's not a neutral observation; it's a sarcastic jab. They're mocking Joseph and dismissing his dreams as mere fantasy. They see him as arrogant and self-important for believing such things could come to pass.
Jealousy and Hatred: The brothers already resented Joseph because Jacob loved him more and had given him a special coat. The dreams were the last straw.
Foreshadowing: Ironically, while the brothers dismiss Joseph's dreams, the story ultimately reveals that these dreams are prophetic and will eventually come true.
So, when they say, "Behold, this dreamer comes," they're expressing a combination of:
Contempt: They look down on Joseph and his supposed delusions of grandeur.
Jealousy: They resent his perceived superiority and the implications of his dreams.
Anger: They are frustrated that their father favors him and that Joseph seems to think he is better than them.
Dismissal: They don't take his dreams seriously and believe they are impossible.
Intention: It is a declaration of animosity before plotting to harm Joseph.
In essence, the line is a cruel and mocking greeting, a prelude to the violence and betrayal that follows. It perfectly encapsulates the brothers' hatred and sets the stage for the dramatic events of the story.
Genesis 37 tells the story of Joseph and his brothers. Verse 19, "They said to one another, “Behold, this dreamer comes," is a sneering remark spoken by Joseph's brothers. It's important to understand the context to fully grasp the meaning:
Joseph's Dreams: Joseph had been sharing his dreams with his brothers, dreams in which they all bowed down to him (Genesis 37:5-11). These dreams, combined with their father Jacob's obvious favoritism towards Joseph, fueled their jealousy and hatred.
"This dreamer": The brothers use this term derisively. It's not a neutral observation; it's a sarcastic jab. They're mocking Joseph and dismissing his dreams as mere fantasy. They see him as arrogant and self-important for believing such things could come to pass.
Jealousy and Hatred: The brothers already resented Joseph because Jacob loved him more and had given him a special coat. The dreams were the last straw.
Foreshadowing: Ironically, while the brothers dismiss Joseph's dreams, the story ultimately reveals that these dreams are prophetic and will eventually come true.
So, when they say, "Behold, this dreamer comes," they're expressing a combination of:
Contempt: They look down on Joseph and his supposed delusions of grandeur.
Jealousy: They resent his perceived superiority and the implications of his dreams.
Anger: They are frustrated that their father favors him and that Joseph seems to think he is better than them.
Dismissal: They don't take his dreams seriously and believe they are impossible.
Intention: It is a declaration of animosity before plotting to harm Joseph.
In essence, the line is a cruel and mocking greeting, a prelude to the violence and betrayal that follows. It perfectly encapsulates the brothers' hatred and sets the stage for the dramatic events of the story.