Old Testament
Genesis 37:28
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When Midianite traders came by, the brothers pulled Joseph up out of the pit and sold him to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver. The Ishmeelites took Joseph to Egypt.
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Then there passed by Midianites merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt.
What Genesis 37:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Joseph's brothers made a shocking decision. They had thrown him into a pit out of jealousy, but now they saw an opportunity to profit. When Midianite traders passed by, they pulled Joseph out and sold him for twenty pieces of silver. This act of betrayal was driven by their anger and greed. Joseph, once favored and loved, was now being taken away to Egypt, far from his family. This event marks a significant turning point in his life, leading to a series of challenges and unexpected developments. It’s a reminder of how quickly circumstances can change and how our choices can lead to unforeseen consequences. Joseph's journey is just beginning, and it will test his character and faith in ways he cannot yet imagine. His story teaches us about resilience and the importance of hope, even in the darkest times. The brothers' actions reflect the complexities of human relationships and the impact of jealousy and betrayal on family bonds. Joseph's experience will ultimately shape his destiny.
How to apply Genesis 37:28 to your life
When faced with jealousy or anger, consider the consequences of your actions. Like Joseph's brothers, we can make choices that hurt others and ourselves. Instead, strive for understanding and compassion. Remember that every decision can lead to a new path, so choose wisely and with love. Your choices matter greatly in shaping your future and relationships with others. Be mindful of how you treat those around you, as it can have lasting effects.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
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Illustrated scene from Joseph, Jacob's son's story: Sold into Egypt (Genesis 37:25–36)
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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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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 37:28 mean?
Genesis 37:28 describes the moment when Joseph's brothers, driven by jealousy, sold him to Midianite traders for twenty pieces of silver. This act of betrayal marks a significant turning point in Joseph's life, leading him to Egypt and setting the stage for future events in his story.
How does Genesis 37:28 relate to the theme of resilience?
Genesis 37:28 sets the stage for Joseph's journey, which tests his resilience in the face of adversity. Despite being betrayed and sold into slavery, Joseph's experiences will ultimately shape his character and lead to significant developments in his life.
What lessons can we learn from Genesis 37:28?
Genesis 37:28 teaches us about the impact of jealousy and betrayal on relationships. It reminds us to consider the consequences of our actions and to choose compassion over anger, as our decisions can significantly affect our lives and those around us.
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