Old Testament
Genesis 37:31
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They took Joseph's coat, slaughtered a young goat, and soaked the coat in its blood.
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And they took Joseph’s coat, and killed a kid of the goats, and dipped the coat in the blood;
What Genesis 37:31 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this moment, Joseph's brothers are taking drastic measures to cover up their betrayal. They have stripped him of his colorful coat, a symbol of their father's favoritism, and they kill a goat to use its blood. By soaking the coat in blood, they plan to deceive their father, Jacob, into believing that Joseph has been killed by a wild animal. This act reveals the depths of their jealousy and the lengths they will go to hide their wrongdoing. The coat, once a sign of love, now becomes a tool of deception. This story illustrates how jealousy can lead to destructive choices and the pain that follows betrayal. The brothers' actions not only hurt Joseph but also create a rift in their family that will have lasting consequences. It serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty and the dangers of allowing envy to dictate our actions, leading to regret and sorrow in the end. The emotional weight of this moment is profound, as it sets the stage for the trials that Joseph will face ahead.
How to apply Genesis 37:31 to your life
Reflect on how jealousy can influence your decisions and relationships. Consider the impact of your actions on others and strive for honesty in your interactions. Remember that choices made in anger or envy can lead to regret and hurt, both for yourself and those around you. Choose kindness instead of jealousy to foster healthier relationships and peace in your life. Embrace forgiveness and understanding to heal any rifts caused by betrayal.
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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Hebron
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 37:31 mean?
Genesis 37:31 describes how Joseph's brothers deceived their father, Jacob, by soaking Joseph's coat in goat's blood to make him believe that Joseph had been killed by a wild animal. This act highlights their jealousy and betrayal.
What is the significance of the coat in Genesis 37:31?
The coat symbolizes Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph, which fueled the brothers' jealousy. By taking the coat and using it in their deception, the brothers not only betray Joseph but also sever their family bonds.
What themes are present in Genesis 37:31?
Key themes in Genesis 37:31 include betrayal, deception, jealousy, and family conflict. These themes illustrate the destructive consequences of envy and the impact of dishonesty on relationships.
How did Joseph's brothers cover up their actions in Genesis 37:31?
Joseph's brothers covered up their betrayal by killing a goat and using its blood to soak Joseph's coat. This was a calculated attempt to convince their father that Joseph had died.
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