Genesis 37:27

Come, let us sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay a hand on him; for he is our brother, our own flesh." And they agreed.

Study Bible

Come, let us sell him
The phrase begins with an invitation to action, "Come," which in Hebrew is "לְכוּ" (lechu), suggesting a collective decision-making process among Joseph's brothers. The act of selling Joseph, "נִמְכְּרֶנּוּ" (nimkerennu), reflects a transactional mindset, reducing a human life to a commodity. This decision is pivotal, as it sets the stage for Joseph's journey to Egypt, a key event in the unfolding of God's providential plan. Historically, the selling of individuals into slavery was not uncommon in the ancient Near East, and this act by Joseph's brothers highlights the moral and ethical challenges faced by God's people.

to the Ishmaelites
The Ishmaelites, descendants of Ishmael, Abraham's son with Hagar, are mentioned here as the traders to whom Joseph is sold. This connection to Ishmael is significant, as it ties back to the broader narrative of Abraham's descendants and the complex relationships between them. The Ishmaelites were known as traders, often traveling in caravans, which aligns with the historical context of nomadic trade routes in the region. This mention underscores the interconnectedness of the biblical family lines and the unfolding of God's promises through unexpected means.

and not lay a hand on him
This phrase, "אַל־תִּשְׁלְחוּ־בּוֹ יָד" (al-tishlechu-bo yad), indicates a decision to refrain from direct violence against Joseph. It reflects a moment of restraint and perhaps a glimmer of conscience among the brothers. In the broader scriptural context, the act of laying hands on someone often implies harm or judgment. Here, the brothers choose a less violent, albeit still morally questionable, course of action. This decision preserves Joseph's life, allowing God's plan for him to unfold in Egypt.

for he is our brother, our own flesh
The acknowledgment of Joseph as "our brother, our own flesh" (כִּי־אָחִינוּ בְשָׂרֵנוּ הוּא, ki-achinu besareinu hu) highlights the familial bond that, despite their jealousy and anger, still holds some sway over the brothers' actions. This recognition of shared kinship is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of family and the moral obligations it entails. It serves as a reminder of the inherent value and dignity of every person, created in the image of God, and the call to love and protect one another.

And they agreed
The phrase "וַיִּשְׁמְעוּ אֶחָיו" (vayishme'u echav) indicates consensus among the brothers. This agreement marks a turning point in the narrative, as it leads to Joseph's descent into Egypt, where he will eventually rise to a position of great influence. The brothers' agreement, while rooted in sin, ultimately serves God's greater purpose, illustrating the mysterious ways in which God can work through human actions, even those that are morally flawed, to bring about His divine will. This serves as a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and the hope that He can redeem even the darkest situations for His glory.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, who is envied by his brothers due to his dreams and his father's favoritism.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob, who conspire against Joseph out of jealousy and decide to sell him.

3. Ishmaelites
A group of traders, descendants of Ishmael, who are traveling to Egypt and to whom Joseph is sold.

4. Reuben
The eldest brother, who initially plans to rescue Joseph but is absent when the decision to sell him is made.

5. Judah
One of Joseph's brothers, who suggests selling Joseph instead of killing him.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Jealousy
Jealousy can lead to destructive actions. Joseph's brothers allowed their envy to drive them to betray their own flesh and blood.

God's Sovereignty in Human Actions
Despite the brothers' sinful actions, God used their decision to fulfill His greater plan for Joseph and the nation of Israel.

The Value of Human Life
Judah's suggestion to sell Joseph rather than kill him reflects a recognition of the value of life, even amidst wrongful intentions.

Family Dynamics and Forgiveness
The account of Joseph and his brothers is a powerful account about family conflict, forgiveness, and reconciliation.

Moral Responsibility
Each brother had a choice in how to treat Joseph, reminding us of our moral responsibility in our actions towards others.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the decision to sell Joseph reflect the brothers' internal struggles and family dynamics?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph's sale to the Ishmaelites foreshadow God's plan for his life and the future of Israel?

3. How can we see God's hand at work in situations where human intentions are evil, as seen in Joseph's account?

4. What lessons can we learn from Judah's suggestion to sell Joseph, and how does it apply to valuing human life today?

5. How does the theme of betrayal in Joseph's account connect to the New Testament account of Jesus' betrayal, and what can we learn from these parallels?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37:28
This verse continues the account, describing the actual sale of Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver.

Genesis 45:4-5
Joseph later reveals himself to his brothers in Egypt, showing how God used their actions for a greater purpose.

Acts 7:9
Stephen recounts the account of Joseph, highlighting the jealousy of his brothers and God's providence.

Matthew 27:3-10
The betrayal of Jesus by Judas for silver parallels Joseph's sale, illustrating themes of betrayal and redemption.