Old Testament
Genesis 37:20
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"Let's kill him now and throw his body into one of these pits. We can say that a wild animal ate him. Then we will see what comes of his dreams."
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Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him into some pit, and we will say, Some evil beast hath devoured him: and we shall see what will become of his dreams.
What Genesis 37:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Joseph's brothers are consumed by jealousy and anger. They plot to kill him, driven by their resentment over his dreams of greatness. Instead of confronting their feelings, they choose a cruel path, thinking they can hide their actions. They plan to deceive their father by claiming a wild animal killed Joseph. This reflects a deep moral failure, as they prioritize their jealousy over family bonds. Their actions reveal how unchecked emotions can lead to devastating choices. The brothers believe that by eliminating Joseph, they can also eliminate the threat his dreams pose to their own futures. However, their plan is shortsighted, as it underestimates the power of dreams and destiny. This story serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of envy and betrayal, reminding us that our actions can have far-reaching effects beyond our immediate intentions. It challenges us to reflect on how we handle our emotions and relationships, urging us to choose compassion over cruelty.
How to apply Genesis 37:20 to your life
When faced with jealousy or anger, take a moment to reflect before acting. Consider how your choices might affect others and the relationships you value. Choose to communicate openly rather than resorting to harmful actions. Remember, compassion can lead to healing and understanding, while jealousy can destroy bonds and trust. Make choices that uplift rather than harm those around you. “Dreams can inspire us, but they can also provoke envy.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Thrown into a Pit (Genesis 37:12–24)
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Joseph, Jacob's son
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724987). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Hebron, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Where Abraham lived and buried Sarah, and where David was first made king.
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Related Bible verses
At a Glance — the Book of Genesis
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 37:20 reveal about Joseph's brothers?
Genesis 37:20 highlights the intense jealousy and anger of Joseph's brothers. They plot to kill him out of resentment for his dreams of greatness, showing how unchecked emotions can lead to destructive decisions. Their willingness to deceive their father by claiming a wild animal killed Joseph reflects a deep moral failure and prioritization of jealousy over family bonds.
How does Genesis 37:20 relate to the theme of jealousy?
In Genesis 37:20, the brothers' plan to kill Joseph stems from their jealousy of his dreams and favored status. This verse illustrates how jealousy can cloud judgment and lead to harmful actions. Instead of addressing their feelings, they choose a path of betrayal, demonstrating the destructive power of envy within family relationships.
What lessons can we learn from Genesis 37:20 about handling emotions?
Genesis 37:20 teaches us the importance of reflecting on our emotions before acting. The brothers' decision to harm Joseph out of jealousy serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of letting negative feelings dictate our actions. It encourages us to communicate openly and choose compassion over cruelty to maintain healthy relationships.
What is the significance of dreams in Genesis 37:20?
In Genesis 37:20, dreams symbolize Joseph's potential and future greatness, which his brothers perceive as a threat. Their plan to eliminate him reflects their desire to suppress not just Joseph but also the implications of his dreams. This highlights the broader theme that dreams can inspire but also provoke envy, leading to conflict and betrayal.
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