Genesis 37:29

When Reuben returned to the pit and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes,

Study Bible

When Reuben returned
Reuben, the firstborn of Jacob, holds a significant position in the family hierarchy. His return to the pit indicates a moment of responsibility and perhaps a sense of leadership. The Hebrew root for "returned" is "שׁוּב" (shuv), which often implies a turning back or repentance. This moment can be seen as a pivotal point for Reuben, who may have been contemplating his role in the events that transpired. Historically, the firstborn son was expected to protect and lead his siblings, adding weight to Reuben's actions and decisions.

to the pit
The "pit" here is a cistern, a common water storage system in ancient times, often used in the arid regions of Canaan. The Hebrew word "בּוֹר" (bor) can mean a pit, cistern, or dungeon. This pit, intended to hold water, becomes a symbol of betrayal and despair. In the broader scriptural context, pits often represent places of entrapment or danger, as seen in other biblical narratives. The use of a pit underscores the severity of Joseph's brothers' actions against him.

and saw that Joseph was not there
Reuben's observation that "Joseph was not there" is a moment of shock and realization. The absence of Joseph signifies a loss and a breach of trust among the brothers. The Hebrew verb "רָאָה" (ra'ah), meaning "to see," implies more than just physical sight; it suggests understanding and perception. Reuben's realization marks a turning point in the narrative, as he becomes aware of the gravity of the situation and the potential consequences.

he tore his clothes
Tearing one's clothes is a traditional expression of grief, mourning, or distress in ancient Near Eastern cultures. The Hebrew verb "קָרַע" (qara) means "to tear" or "to rend," and this act is often associated with deep emotional turmoil. In the biblical context, tearing one's garments is a physical manifestation of inner anguish and is seen in other instances of mourning or repentance throughout Scripture. Reuben's action reflects his despair and perhaps his guilt over not being able to protect Joseph, highlighting the emotional and moral complexity of the narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuben
The eldest son of Jacob and Leah, Reuben is portrayed as a conflicted character who initially intends to rescue Joseph from his brothers' plot. His tearing of clothes signifies deep distress and mourning.

2. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, Joseph is the victim of his brothers' jealousy. His absence from the pit marks a pivotal moment in the account, leading to his eventual journey to Egypt.

3. The Pit
A cistern or dry well where Joseph's brothers initially threw him. It symbolizes betrayal and the depths of despair, contrasting with Joseph's later rise to power.

4. The Brothers
The other sons of Jacob, who conspire against Joseph out of jealousy. Their actions set the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan.

5. Jacob
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Jacob is the father of Reuben and Joseph, whose favoritism towards Joseph fuels the brothers' envy.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Reuben's distress is a direct result of the brothers' sinful actions. Sin often leads to unintended consequences and deep regret.

The Importance of Leadership
As the eldest, Reuben had a responsibility to lead his brothers wisely. His failure to do so serves as a reminder of the importance of godly leadership.

Expressions of Grief
Tearing one's clothes was a traditional expression of mourning. Understanding cultural expressions of grief can deepen our empathy and compassion for others.

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Despite the brothers' betrayal, God's plan for Joseph's life unfolds perfectly. This encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty, even in difficult circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Reuben's reaction to Joseph's absence reflect his character and leadership among his brothers?

2. In what ways can we see God's providence at work in the events surrounding Joseph's life, despite human sinfulness?

3. How do cultural expressions of grief, like tearing clothes, help us understand the depth of emotion in biblical accounts?

4. What lessons can we learn from Reuben's failure to prevent his brothers' actions, and how can we apply these lessons to our own leadership roles?

5. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers connect to the broader theme of redemption found throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42:22
Reuben later reminds his brothers of their guilt concerning Joseph, showing his ongoing struggle with the events of Genesis 37.

Job 1:20
Job tears his clothes in mourning, similar to Reuben, highlighting a cultural expression of grief and loss.

Matthew 27:51
The tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion can be seen as a divine expression of grief and a significant turning point, much like Reuben's act marks a turning point in Joseph's account.