Genesis 37:24

and they took him and threw him into the pit. Now the pit was empty, with no water in it.

Study Bible

And they took him
This phrase marks the decisive action of Joseph's brothers, who, driven by jealousy and resentment, seize him. The Hebrew root for "took" is לָקַח (laqach), which often implies taking possession or capturing. This act of taking Joseph is not just physical but symbolic of their desire to rid themselves of his favored status and the dreams that foretold his future prominence. It reflects the human tendency to act out of envy and the destructive power of sin when it takes hold of the heart.

and threw him
The Hebrew verb used here is שָׁלַךְ (shalach), meaning to cast or hurl. This word conveys violence and force, indicating the brothers' deep-seated animosity. It is not a gentle placing but a harsh rejection, symbolizing their complete dismissal of Joseph's worth and their severing of familial bonds. This action foreshadows the suffering and trials Joseph will endure, yet it is also the beginning of God's providential plan for his life.

into the pit
The "pit" (בּוֹר, bor) in ancient times often referred to a cistern or a dry well, typically used to store water. Archaeological findings show that such pits were common in the region and could be quite deep, making escape difficult. The pit represents a place of abandonment and despair, a physical manifestation of Joseph's isolation from his family. Spiritually, it symbolizes the depths of human suffering and the feeling of being forsaken, yet it is within such depths that God's presence and deliverance often become most apparent.

Now the pit was empty
The emphasis on the pit being "empty" highlights the severity of Joseph's predicament. In a literal sense, an empty pit offers no sustenance or hope of survival. Metaphorically, it underscores the void of compassion and brotherly love from his siblings. This emptiness can also be seen as a precursor to the spiritual emptiness that sin brings into human relationships, contrasting with the fullness of life that God desires for His people.

with no water in it
Water, in biblical symbolism, often represents life, sustenance, and the presence of God. The absence of water in the pit signifies a lack of life-giving resources and hope. Historically, water was a precious commodity in the arid regions of the Near East, and its absence would have been acutely felt. Spiritually, this detail foreshadows the spiritual drought that can occur when one is cut off from God's grace and mercy. Yet, it also sets the stage for God's miraculous intervention, as He often brings life and hope where there seems to be none.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, who was given a coat of many colors. His brothers were envious of him due to his dreams and their father's favoritism.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who were envious of Joseph. They plotted against him and ultimately threw him into a pit.

3. The Pit
A cistern or dry well where Joseph was thrown by his brothers. It symbolizes despair and abandonment.

4. Dothan
The location where Joseph found his brothers and where they plotted against him.

5. Reuben
The eldest brother who initially intended to rescue Joseph later, suggesting they throw him into the pit instead of killing him.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Envy
Envy can lead to destructive actions and broken relationships. Joseph's brothers allowed their jealousy to drive them to harm their own kin.

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Even when Joseph was in the pit, God had a plan for his life. This teaches us to trust in God's sovereignty, even in difficult circumstances.

The Importance of Compassion
Reuben's attempt to save Joseph, though flawed, shows the importance of compassion and standing up for what is right, even when others are against it.

The Symbolism of the Pit
The empty pit represents moments of despair and abandonment in our lives. It reminds us that God can transform our lowest points into stepping stones for His purpose.

Repentance and Forgiveness
The account of Joseph and his brothers ultimately leads to reconciliation, teaching us the power of repentance and forgiveness in healing relationships.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the account of Joseph being thrown into the pit illustrate the dangers of unchecked envy and jealousy in our own lives?

2. In what ways can we see God's hand at work in Joseph's life, even when he was in the pit? How can this encourage us in our own times of trial?

3. How does Reuben's intervention reflect the importance of standing up for what is right? Can you think of a situation where you might need to do the same?

4. What does the empty pit symbolize in your own life, and how can you find hope and trust in God's plan during those times?

5. How does the eventual reconciliation between Joseph and his brothers inspire us to seek forgiveness and healing in our own relationships?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37:18-28
Provides the broader context of the brothers' plot against Joseph, including their initial plan to kill him and Reuben's intervention.

Genesis 42:21-22
Reflects the brothers' later guilt and recognition of their wrongdoing against Joseph, showing the long-term impact of their actions.

Jeremiah 38:6
Similar imagery of being thrown into a pit, highlighting themes of suffering and deliverance.

Psalm 40:2
Speaks of God lifting one out of the pit, symbolizing hope and redemption.

Acts 7:9
Stephen's speech references Joseph's betrayal by his brothers, illustrating God's providence and plan through adversity.