This verse, Genesis 37:20, describes a pivotal moment in the story of Joseph and his brothers. Let's break down its meaning:
"Come now therefore, and let’s kill him...": This shows the brothers' extreme jealousy and hatred towards Joseph. They are plotting to murder him. The "come now therefore" indicates a decision has been reached and they are ready to act.
"...and cast him into one of the pits...": Instead of killing Joseph directly and leaving a body, they plan to throw him into a pit (likely a dry cistern). This allows them to distance themselves somewhat from the immediate act of murder, perhaps hoping he'll die on his own or be easily disposed of.
"...and we will say, ‘An evil animal has devoured him.’": This reveals their plan to cover up their crime. They intend to lie to their father, Jacob, claiming Joseph was killed by a wild animal. This highlights their deceitfulness and lack of remorse.
"We will see what will become of his dreams.”": This is the most important part of the verse for understanding their motivation. Joseph had been sharing dreams where he saw himself ruling over his brothers, which fueled their envy and resentment. By killing him, they believe they can nullify his dreams and prove they are not destined to serve him. The phrase is sarcastic and defiant, expressing their intent to disprove Joseph's perceived superiority.
In essence, this verse encapsulates the brothers' plot to murder Joseph out of jealousy and to disprove his prophetic dreams. It demonstrates their cruelty, deceitfulness, and the deep-seated animosity they held towards him. It is a crucial moment in the story, setting in motion the events that lead to Joseph's enslavement in Egypt and the eventual reconciliation with his family.
This verse, Genesis 37:20, describes a pivotal moment in the story of Joseph and his brothers. Let's break down its meaning:
"Come now therefore, and let’s kill him...": This shows the brothers' extreme jealousy and hatred towards Joseph. They are plotting to murder him. The "come now therefore" indicates a decision has been reached and they are ready to act.
"...and cast him into one of the pits...": Instead of killing Joseph directly and leaving a body, they plan to throw him into a pit (likely a dry cistern). This allows them to distance themselves somewhat from the immediate act of murder, perhaps hoping he'll die on his own or be easily disposed of.
"...and we will say, ‘An evil animal has devoured him.’": This reveals their plan to cover up their crime. They intend to lie to their father, Jacob, claiming Joseph was killed by a wild animal. This highlights their deceitfulness and lack of remorse.
"We will see what will become of his dreams.”": This is the most important part of the verse for understanding their motivation. Joseph had been sharing dreams where he saw himself ruling over his brothers, which fueled their envy and resentment. By killing him, they believe they can nullify his dreams and prove they are not destined to serve him. The phrase is sarcastic and defiant, expressing their intent to disprove Joseph's perceived superiority.
In essence, this verse encapsulates the brothers' plot to murder Joseph out of jealousy and to disprove his prophetic dreams. It demonstrates their cruelty, deceitfulness, and the deep-seated animosity they held towards him. It is a crucial moment in the story, setting in motion the events that lead to Joseph's enslavement in Egypt and the eventual reconciliation with his family.