Genesis 37:28

So when the Midianite traders passed by, his brothers pulled Joseph out of the pit and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.

Study Bible

Midianite traders
The term "Midianite" refers to a group of people descended from Midian, a son of Abraham by Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). Historically, the Midianites were known as traders and nomads, often traveling through the regions of the Near East. This highlights the interconnectedness of Abraham's descendants and the complex relationships between different tribes. The presence of Midianite traders in this narrative underscores the providential orchestration of events, as God uses even distant relatives to fulfill His purposes.

passed by
This phrase indicates the movement and timing of the traders, suggesting divine timing in the unfolding of Joseph's story. The passing by of the traders at this precise moment is not coincidental but part of God's sovereign plan. It serves as a reminder that God is always at work, even in the seemingly mundane or coincidental events of life.

his brothers pulled Joseph out of the pit
The act of pulling Joseph out of the pit is both literal and symbolic. Literally, it marks the transition from Joseph's initial suffering to a new phase of his journey. Symbolically, it represents the beginning of Joseph's rise from the depths of despair to eventual prominence. The pit, a place of abandonment and hopelessness, becomes the starting point for God's redemptive work in Joseph's life.

sold him for twenty shekels of silver
The price of twenty shekels of silver for Joseph reflects the value of a young male slave during that period, as corroborated by ancient Near Eastern texts. This transaction highlights the brothers' betrayal and the devaluation of Joseph's life. Yet, it also foreshadows the redemptive work of Christ, who was betrayed for thirty pieces of silver. The sale of Joseph is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for God's greater plan of salvation for His people.

to the Ishmaelites
The Ishmaelites, like the Midianites, are descendants of Abraham, through Ishmael, the son of Hagar (Genesis 16:15). This connection emphasizes the broader family dynamics at play and the fulfillment of God's promises to Abraham regarding his descendants. The involvement of the Ishmaelites in Joseph's account illustrates how God uses various people and circumstances to accomplish His divine purposes.

who took him to Egypt
Egypt, in the biblical narrative, often represents a place of both refuge and bondage. For Joseph, Egypt becomes the land of his affliction and exaltation. This journey to Egypt is a crucial step in God's plan to preserve the family of Jacob during a future famine. It also prefigures the later exodus of the Israelites from Egypt, highlighting God's faithfulness in delivering His people. The movement to Egypt signifies a transition from the familiar to the unknown, a journey that requires trust in God's providence and sovereignty.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, who was betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who, out of jealousy and hatred, plotted against Joseph.

3. Midianite Traders
Merchants passing by who were involved in the transaction of selling Joseph.

4. Ishmaelites
The group to whom Joseph was sold, who then took him to Egypt.

5. Egypt
The land where Joseph would eventually rise to power, but initially a place of slavery and hardship.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Even in betrayal and hardship, God is at work to fulfill His purposes.

The Cost of Jealousy
Jealousy can lead to destructive actions that have long-lasting consequences.

The Value of Forgiveness
Joseph's later forgiveness of his brothers is a powerful example of grace and reconciliation.

Trust in God's Plan
Like Joseph, we may not understand our circumstances, but we can trust that God is in control.

The Role of Providence
God's providence is evident as He uses human actions, even sinful ones, to accomplish His divine will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's experience of being sold into slavery reflect God's larger plan for his life and the nation of Israel?

2. In what ways can jealousy manifest in our lives today, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty during difficult times?

4. What parallels can we draw between Joseph's betrayal and the betrayal of Jesus, and what do these teach us about God's redemptive plan?

5. How can we apply the principle of forgiveness in our relationships, following Joseph's example with his brothers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 45:4-8
Joseph later reveals himself to his brothers and explains that God used their actions for good, to save many lives.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen recounts Joseph's account, highlighting God's providence and Joseph's rise to power in Egypt.

Psalm 105:17-19
Reflects on Joseph's journey and God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.

Matthew 26:15
The betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, drawing a parallel to Joseph's betrayal.