Genesis 37:32

They sent the robe of many colors to their father and said, "We found this. Examine it to see whether it is your son's robe or not."

Study Bible

They sent
The phrase "They sent" indicates an action taken by Joseph's brothers to distance themselves from the direct confrontation with their father, Jacob. In Hebrew, the verb "sent" (שָׁלַח, shalach) often implies a deliberate action with intent. This reflects the brothers' calculated decision to deceive their father without facing him directly, highlighting their moral decline and the severity of their jealousy and hatred towards Joseph.

the robe of many colors
The "robe of many colors" (כְּתֹנֶת פַּסִּים, ketonet passim) is a significant symbol in Joseph's narrative. This robe, a gift from Jacob, represented favoritism and special status. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, such garments were often associated with nobility or a position of honor. The brothers' act of sending the robe, now stained with goat's blood, symbolizes their attempt to strip Joseph of his favored status and deceive their father into believing Joseph is dead.

to their father
The phrase "to their father" emphasizes the personal and familial betrayal involved. Jacob, the patriarch, is the intended recipient of this deceitful message. The Hebrew word for father (אָב, av) carries connotations of authority, lineage, and deep familial bonds. The brothers' actions not only betray Joseph but also deeply wound their father, disrupting the family structure and causing profound grief.

and said
The phrase "and said" introduces the brothers' verbal deception. In Hebrew narrative, speech often reveals character and intent. Here, the brothers' words are carefully chosen to maintain their deceit while avoiding direct lies. This reflects their cunning nature and the depth of their moral corruption.

We found this
The statement "We found this" is deliberately vague and misleading. The brothers present the robe as an object discovered by chance, absolving themselves of responsibility. This phrase is a classic example of deceit by omission, where the truth is manipulated by what is left unsaid. It highlights the brothers' willingness to deceive their father without directly lying.

Examine it
The command "Examine it" (הַכֶּר־נָא, haker-na) is an invitation for Jacob to identify the robe. This phrase is loaded with irony, as the brothers know full well the robe's significance and origin. The use of this phrase places the burden of discovery on Jacob, further illustrating the brothers' cowardice and manipulation.

to see whether it is your son’s robe
The phrase "to see whether it is your son’s robe" is a final, cruel twist in the brothers' deception. By referring to Joseph as "your son" rather than "our brother," they distance themselves emotionally and relationally from Joseph. This language underscores the depth of their animosity and the fracture within the family. The phrase also manipulates Jacob's emotions, forcing him to confront the possibility of his beloved son's death.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, known for his "robe of many colors," which symbolized his father's special love and favor.

2. Jacob (Israel)
The father of Joseph and his brothers, who is deceived by his sons into believing Joseph is dead.

3. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who are envious of Joseph and conspire against him, ultimately selling him into slavery.

4. The Robe of Many Colors
A symbol of Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph, which incites jealousy and hatred among his brothers.

5. Canaan
The land where Jacob and his family reside, and where the events of Joseph's betrayal take place.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Favoritism
Favoritism within families can lead to jealousy, division, and destructive actions. Parents should strive for fairness and love towards all their children.

Consequences of Deception
The brothers' deceit not only caused their father great grief but also set off a chain of events that affected their entire family. Truthfulness is essential in maintaining trust and integrity.

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Despite the evil intentions of Joseph's brothers, God used their actions to fulfill His greater plan. Believers can trust that God is sovereign and can bring good out of difficult circumstances.

Repentance and Forgiveness
The account of Joseph ultimately leads to reconciliation and forgiveness. Christians are called to forgive others as God has forgiven them.

The Cost of Envy
Envy can lead to destructive behavior and harm relationships. Believers are encouraged to cultivate contentment and gratitude.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph contribute to the events that unfold in Genesis 37:32, and what lessons can we learn about family dynamics?

2. In what ways does the deception of Joseph's brothers mirror other biblical accounts of deceit, and what are the consequences of such actions?

3. How does the account of Joseph illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our response to personal trials?

4. What parallels can be drawn between Joseph's betrayal and the betrayal of Jesus, and how do these accounts highlight the themes of redemption and forgiveness?

5. How can we guard against envy in our own lives, and what biblical principles can help us cultivate a spirit of contentment and gratitude?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37:3-4
Provides context for the jealousy and hatred Joseph's brothers felt towards him due to Jacob's favoritism.

Genesis 37:18-28
Details the brothers' conspiracy to kill Joseph, which leads to his being sold into slavery.

Genesis 45:4-8
Shows the eventual reconciliation and God's providential plan through Joseph's trials.

Matthew 27:3-5
Judas' betrayal of Jesus parallels the betrayal of Joseph by his brothers, highlighting themes of betrayal and redemption.

Luke 15:11-32
The parable of the prodigal son reflects themes of familial relationships, forgiveness, and restoration.