The story of Joseph, found in the Book of Genesis, is one of the most compelling narratives in the Bible. It tells the tale of Joseph, a favored son of Jacob, and the jealousy and betrayal he faced from his brothers. One of the most critical moments in Joseph’s story is when his brothers put him in a pit. Understanding who did this and why provides valuable insights into themes of jealousy, betrayal, and divine providence.
The Jealousy of Joseph’s Brothers
Joseph was the eleventh son of Jacob but the firstborn of Rachel, Jacob’s most beloved wife. Jacob’s favoritism towards Joseph was evident, especially when he gave Joseph a richly ornamented robe, often referred to as the “coat of many colors” (Genesis 37:3). This favoritism bred jealousy and resentment among Joseph’s older brothers.
The Plot Against Joseph
In Genesis 37:18-24, we read about the brothers’ conspiracy against Joseph:
“But they saw him in the distance, and before he reached them, they plotted to kill him. ‘Here comes that dreamer!’ they said to each other. ‘Come now, let’s kill him and throw him into one of these cisterns and say that a ferocious animal devoured him. Then we’ll see what comes of his dreams.’
Reuben’s Intervention
Reuben, the eldest brother, intervened with a less deadly suggestion. Instead of killing Joseph, he proposed they throw him into a pit. Reuben’s intention was to rescue Joseph later and return him to their father, Jacob:
“When Reuben heard this, he tried to rescue him from their hands. ‘Let’s not take his life,’ he said. ‘Don’t shed any blood. Throw him into this cistern here in the wilderness, but don’t lay a hand on him.’ Reuben said this to rescue him from them and take him back to his father” (Genesis 37:21-22).
Reuben’s plan was a compromise to save Joseph without directly opposing his brothers’ anger. However, Reuben’s temporary absence provided an opportunity for the other brothers to alter the plan.
The Act of Betrayal
While Reuben was away, the other brothers decided to sell Joseph to a passing caravan of Ishmaelites, who were on their way to Egypt:
“So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe—the richly ornamented robe he was wearing—and they took him and threw him into the cistern. The cistern was empty; there was no water in it” (Genesis 37:23-24).
Judah’s Role
Judah, another one of Joseph’s brothers, played a significant role in the decision to sell Joseph rather than leave him to die in the pit:
“Judah said to his brothers, ‘What will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? Come, let’s sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay our hands on him; after all, he is our brother, our own flesh and blood.’ His brothers agreed” (Genesis 37:26-27).
Conclusion
The story of Joseph being put in the pit by his brothers highlights the destructive power of jealousy and the unforeseen consequences of betrayal. Reuben, trying to save Joseph, suggested the pit as a temporary measure, but his absence allowed Judah and the other brothers to sell Joseph into slavery. This act of betrayal set the stage for Joseph’s incredible journey from slavery to becoming a ruler in Egypt, demonstrating that even the darkest moments can be part of a divine plan.
