Genesis 37:16

KJV

And he said, I seek my brethren: tell me, I pray thee, where they feed [their flocks].

KJV (with Strong's)

And he said {H559}, I seek {H1245} my brethren {H251}: tell {H5046} me, I pray thee, where {H375} they feed {H7462} their flocks.

Complete Jewish Bible

"I'm looking for my brothers," he answered. "Tell me, please, where are they pasturing the sheep?"

Berean Standard Bible

“I am looking for my brothers,” Joseph replied. “Can you please tell me where they are pasturing their flocks?”

American Standard Version

And he said, I am seeking my brethren: tell me, I pray thee, where they are feeding the flock.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Joseph's earnest and obedient inquiry to a stranger: "I seek my brethren: tell me, I pray thee, where they feed [their flocks]." This seemingly simple act of filial duty, undertaken at his father's behest to locate his brothers tending their sheep, unwittingly initiates a divinely orchestrated sequence of events that will lead to his profound suffering, betrayal, enslavement, and eventual dramatic rise to power in Egypt, ultimately serving as God's instrument to preserve his family and fulfill the unfolding covenant promises.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** [Genesis chapter 37](/genesis/37 "Joseph's Dreams and His Brothers' Jealousy") marks a significant transition in the book of Genesis, shifting the narrative's primary focus from Jacob to his son, Joseph. Preceding this verse, Jacob, residing in the valley of Hebron, sends Joseph to check on the welfare of his brothers, who are pasturing their flocks near Shechem, a considerable distance away ([Genesis 37:12-14](/genesis/37-12-14 "Jacob sends Joseph to his brothers")). Upon arriving in Shechem, Joseph discovers his brothers have moved on. This verse, therefore, captures Joseph's diligent and innocent pursuit of his assigned task, as he encounters a man in the field who offers crucial information regarding his brothers' new location. This seemingly mundane interaction is a pivotal turning point, setting the stage for the dramatic and tragic events that immediately follow, including his brothers' malicious plot and his sale into slavery.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The narrative is set within the patriarchal period, where nomadic pastoralism was the primary mode of life and economic sustenance. Families like Jacob's moved with their flocks to find suitable grazing lands, often over long distances. The role of a shepherd was foundational, involving significant time away from the family encampment. Within this cultural framework, family dynamics were paramount, though often fraught with tension, as seen in Jacob's household. Favoritism, exemplified by Jacob's clear preference for Joseph ([Genesis 37:3](/genesis/37-3 "Jacob's love for Joseph")), was a common source of sibling rivalry, often leading to deep-seated animosity. The act of a younger son being sent to oversee older brothers, especially one who had received prophetic dreams of their subservience ([Genesis 37:5-11](/genesis/37-5-11 "Joseph's Dreams")), would have been culturally provocative and contributed to the brothers' resentment.
* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several overarching themes within Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Divine Providence and Sovereignty**, demonstrating how God orchestrates seemingly random human interactions and choices (Joseph's obedience, the stranger's guidance) to accomplish His predetermined purposes, even through human sin and suffering. Secondly, it highlights the theme of **Obedience and Diligence**, as Joseph's unwavering commitment to his father's command, despite the difficulty of his search, sets in motion the events that lead to his eventual exaltation. Thirdly, it starkly contrasts **Innocence with Malice**, as Joseph's pure intent in seeking his family stands in sharp relief against the deep-seated hatred and murderous intentions his brothers harbored, which will soon manifest in their betrayal. Finally, it subtly introduces the theme of **Separation and Reunion**, as Joseph's physical search for his brothers foreshadows the profound separation he will soon experience, which will ultimately culminate in a miraculous reunion and reconciliation, echoing themes found in other biblical narratives of reconciliation, such as the prodigal son in [Luke 15:11-32](/luke/15-11-32 "Parable of the Prodigal Son").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Genesis 37:16 captures a moment of profound dramatic irony, where Joseph's simple, obedient inquiry unknowingly propels him towards a destiny of suffering and, ultimately, salvation. His words reveal his singular focus on fulfilling his father's instruction, entirely oblivious to the malevolent intentions of his brothers.

#### Key Word Analysis
* **seek (Hebrew, _bâqash'_):** H1245 (bâqash) is a primitive root meaning "to search out (by any method, specifically in worship or prayer); by implication, to strive after; ask, beg, beseech, desire, enquire, get, make inquisition, procure, (make) request, require, seek (for)." Joseph's use of this word indicates an earnest, diligent search, not a casual glance. He is actively pursuing his objective, demonstrating his commitment and obedience to his father, Jacob. This diligence is a key aspect of Joseph's character, setting him apart.
* **brethren (Hebrew, _ʼâch'_):** H251 (ʼâch) is a primitive word for "a brother (used in the widest sense of literal relationship and metaphorical affinity or resemblance (like father)); another, brother(-ly); kindred, like, other." The term emphasizes the familial bond that Joseph is attempting to uphold. The tragic irony lies in the fact that these "brethren" are precisely the ones who will soon betray and sell him, shattering the very bond Joseph is diligently seeking to maintain.
* **tell (Hebrew, _nâgad'_):** H5046 (nâgad) is a primitive root meaning "properly, to front, i.e. stand boldly out opposite; by implication (causatively), to manifest; figuratively, to announce (always by word of mouth to one present); specifically, to expose, predict, explain, praise." Joseph's request for the stranger to "tell" him where his brothers are feeding their flocks is a direct appeal for information to manifest or reveal their location. This act of being "told" is crucial, as the stranger's revelation directs Joseph precisely to Dothan, the place where his fate will be dramatically altered.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"And he said,"**: This simple introductory phrase sets the stage for Joseph's direct communication. It highlights his initiative in responding to the stranger's inquiry about his wandering, indicating his readiness to engage and seek information.
* **"I seek my brethren:"**: This is the core of Joseph's response, revealing his singular purpose and the object of his search. The use of "my brethren" underscores the familial bond and his filial duty, making the subsequent betrayal by these very brothers all the more poignant and tragic. His intent is pure and focused on family.
* **"tell me, I pray thee, where they feed [their flocks]."**: This clause is Joseph's earnest request for specific information. The phrase "I pray thee" indicates a polite but urgent plea for assistance. His inquiry about where they "feed their flocks" is practical and rooted in the pastoral life of his family, providing the precise detail needed for the stranger to direct him to Dothan. This seemingly innocuous question leads him directly into the snare his brothers have set.

#### Literary Devices
The verse is rich in **Dramatic Irony**, as Joseph's innocent and diligent search for his brothers, driven by filial obedience, unknowingly leads him directly into the trap they have laid for him. The audience is aware of the brothers' malicious intentions from earlier in the chapter ([Genesis 37:4](/genesis/37-4 "Brothers' hatred for Joseph")), creating a stark contrast with Joseph's pure motives. This dramatic tension heightens the tragedy of his impending betrayal. Furthermore, the verse employs **Foreshadowing**, as Joseph's "seeking" his brothers anticipates his later role in "seeking" their welfare and providing for them in Egypt, albeit after a period of profound suffering and separation. The act of "feeding flocks" also serves as a subtle **Symbolism** of sustenance and provision, which Joseph will ultimately embody for his family and for Egypt.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joseph's earnest inquiry in [Genesis 37:16](/genesis/37-16 "Joseph Seeks His Brothers") serves as a powerful illustration of God's meticulous **Sovereignty** and **Providence**, even amidst human sin and seemingly random events. Joseph's innocent obedience to his father's command, and the stranger's timely intervention, are not coincidences but integral threads in God's grand tapestry, guiding Joseph towards Egypt to preserve the nascent nation of Israel. This highlights the profound truth that God can use all circumstances, including betrayal and suffering, to accomplish His redemptive purposes, often in ways that are initially incomprehensible to those involved. It underscores the theme of **Faithfulness in Small Things**, demonstrating how diligence in seemingly ordinary duties can have extraordinary, divinely ordained consequences.

* [Proverbs 16:9](/proverbs/16-9 "A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.")
* [Romans 8:28](/romans/8-28 "God works all things for good.")
* [Psalm 37:23](/psalms/37-23 "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord.")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[Genesis 37:16](/genesis/37-16 "Joseph Seeks His Brothers") offers profound lessons for contemporary believers. Joseph's unwavering obedience and diligence in a seemingly mundane task, despite the inherent dangers and the unknown future, serve as a powerful model. It reminds us that our faithfulness in the "small" assignments of life, whether in our work, family, or ministry, can be precisely what God uses to unfold His greater purposes, often leading us through unexpected trials and into positions we never envisioned. This narrative encourages us to trust in God's sovereign hand, recognizing that even when our path seems unclear, or when we face adversity stemming from the actions of others, God is always at work, weaving every detail into His perfect plan for our good and His glory. It challenges us to maintain a posture of obedience and diligence, even when the immediate outcome is uncertain, knowing that our ultimate destination is secured in His divine wisdom.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Joseph's diligent search, despite the unknown, challenge my own approach to tasks or responsibilities that seem mundane or difficult?**
* **In what ways can I recognize God's sovereign hand at work in seemingly random encounters or unexpected turns in my own life's journey?**
* **How does Joseph's innocent intent, contrasted with his brothers' malice, encourage me to respond with integrity even when others act unjustly towards me?**

### FAQ
**Why is Joseph's simple inquiry so significant in the biblical narrative?**

Answer: Joseph's seemingly simple question, "I seek my brethren," is profoundly significant because it is the pivotal moment that directly leads him into the hands of his brothers, initiating the long and complex chain of events that will take him to Egypt. This innocent act of obedience to his father's command sets in motion God's divine plan to preserve the nascent nation of Israel through Joseph's future role as a deliverer. Without this specific inquiry and the stranger's guidance to Dothan ([Genesis 37:17](/genesis/37-17 "Joseph goes to Dothan")), the entire trajectory of Joseph's life, and thus the fulfillment of God's covenant promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, would have been altered, demonstrating how God uses ordinary human actions to fulfill His extraordinary purposes.

**Does Joseph's diligence here reflect a broader biblical principle?**

Answer: Yes, Joseph's diligence in seeking his brothers, despite the difficulty and distance, reflects a broader biblical principle of faithfulness and perseverance in duty. Scripture often commends those who are diligent in their work and obedient to authority, promising that such dedication leads to blessing and opportunity. For example, [Proverbs 22:29](/proverbs/22-29 "The diligent man will stand before kings") states, "Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men." In Joseph's case, his faithfulness in this "small" task ultimately positioned him for a "great" role in God's redemptive plan, illustrating that God often uses our present obedience, even in seemingly insignificant matters, to prepare us for future responsibilities and to accomplish His grand designs.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph's earnest seeking of his brethren in [Genesis 37:16](/genesis/37-16 "Joseph Seeks His Brothers") serves as a poignant and multi-faceted foreshadowing of Christ. Like Joseph, who was sent by his father to seek out his estranged brothers, Jesus was sent by His Heavenly Father to "seek and to save the lost" ([Luke 19:10](/luke/19-10 "Jesus came to seek and save the lost")). Just as Joseph's brothers, out of envy and malice, rejected him and plotted his harm, leading to his suffering, death (figuratively, through the pit and slavery), and eventual exaltation for the salvation of his family, so too did Christ come to His own, and "His own people did not receive Him" ([John 1:11](/john/1-11 "His own did not receive Him")), leading to His crucifixion and death. Yet, through this ultimate act of rejection and suffering, Christ was exalted to the right hand of God, becoming the source of eternal salvation and spiritual sustenance for all who believe, reconciling estranged humanity to God ([2 Corinthians 5:18-19](/2_corinthians/5-18-19 "God reconciled us to Himself through Christ")) and gathering His scattered "brethren" into one family, the church ([Hebrews 2:11-12](/hebrews/2-11-12 "Jesus is not ashamed to call them brothers")). Joseph's innocent search for his family culminates in their physical preservation; Christ's divine mission culminates in the spiritual and eternal preservation of all who trust in Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Luke 19:10

For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.

Song Of Solomon 1:7

¶ Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth, where thou feedest, where thou makest [thy flock] to rest at noon: for why should I be as one that turneth aside by the flocks of thy companions?