Genesis 37:19
And they said one to another, Behold, this dreamer cometh.
And they said {H559} one {H376} to another {H251}, Behold, this {H1976} dreamer {H1167}{H2472} cometh {H935}.
They said to each other, "Look, this dreamer is coming!
โHere comes that dreamer!โ they said to one another.
And they said one to another, Behold, this dreamer cometh.
Cross-References
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Genesis 28:12
And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it. -
Genesis 49:23
The archers have sorely grieved him, and shot [at him], and hated him: -
Genesis 37:5
ยถ And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told [it] his brethren: and they hated him yet the more. -
Genesis 37:11
And his brethren envied him; but his father observed the saying.
Commentary
Genesis 37:19 KJV: "And when they saw him afar off, even before he came near unto them, they conspired against him to slay him."
Context of Genesis 37:19
This verse marks a pivotal moment in the dramatic narrative of Joseph, one of the most beloved figures in the Old Testament. Joseph was the favored son of Jacob (Israel), often distinguished by his father's gift of a special coat (Genesis 37:3). His privileged position, coupled with Joseph's prophetic dreams that foretold his brothers bowing down to him, fueled deep resentment and jealousy among his ten older brothers. In this specific scene, Joseph has been sent by his father to check on his brothers, who were tending their flocks in Dothan. As soon as they spot him approaching, their simmering animosity boils over into a murderous plot.
Key Themes and Messages
Linguistic Insights
The KJV phrase "conspired against him to slay him" is a direct translation of the Hebrew, emphasizing the deliberate and malicious intent. The word for "conspired" (ื ึธืึทื, nakhal) implies deceit and cunning, suggesting a calculated plot rather than a sudden outburst. The intent "to slay him" (ืึทืึฒืึดืืชืึน, lahamito) leaves no ambiguity about their murderous desires.
Practical Application and Reflection
Genesis 37:19 serves as a stark reminder of how deeply rooted sin, particularly jealousy and hatred, can be within the human heart. It prompts us to examine our own attitudes toward others, especially those we perceive as rivals or those who have wronged us. The story of Joseph, beginning with this dark conspiracy, ultimately teaches us about:
This verse lays the groundwork for understanding the complex interplay of human sin and divine providence throughout the biblical narrative, reminding believers that even the darkest moments can be part of God's redemptive plan.
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