Genesis 37:3

Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he [was] the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of [many] colours.

Now Israel {H3478} loved {H157} Joseph {H3130} more than all his children {H1121}, because he was the son {H1121} of his old age {H2208}: and he made {H6213} him a coat {H3801} of many colours {H6446}.

Now Isra'el loved Yosef the most of all his children, because he was the son of his old age; and he made him a long-sleeved robe.

Now Israel loved Joseph more than his other sons, because Joseph had been born to him in his old age; so he made him a robe of many colors.

Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colors.

Commentary

Commentary on Genesis 37:3

Genesis 37:3 introduces a pivotal moment in the life of Joseph, establishing the foundation for much of the patriarchal narrative that follows. This verse highlights the profound favoritism shown by Jacob (also called Israel) towards his son Joseph, a partiality that would have significant, far-reaching consequences for the entire family.

Context and Background

Jacob, renamed Israel after wrestling with God, had twelve sons from four different women. Joseph was special to him because he was the firstborn son of his beloved wife, Rachel, who had long been barren before Joseph's birth (Genesis 30:24). Furthermore, Joseph was born when Jacob was already an old man, making him "the son of his old age." This combination of factors led to Jacob's overwhelming affection for Joseph above all his other children.

The "coat of many colours" (KJV), or more accurately translated as a "long robe with sleeves" or "ornamented tunic," is a crucial detail. The Hebrew term is kethoneth passim. Unlike a simple tunic worn by laborers, this garment likely signified a status of leisure, privilege, or royalty, indicating that Joseph was not expected to perform manual labor in the fields with his brothers. It was a visible symbol of Jacob's special love and Joseph's elevated position within the family, further distinguishing him from his siblings.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Favoritism and its Perils: The verse powerfully illustrates the dangers of parental favoritism. Jacob's open display of partiality, symbolized by the special coat, bred intense jealousy and resentment among Joseph's brothers (Genesis 37:4). This favoritism ultimately led to familial strife, betrayal, and Joseph's suffering.
  • Divine Providence: While Jacob's favoritism was a human failing, it unwittingly set the stage for God's larger plan. The subsequent events, including Joseph's enslavement and rise in Egypt, were all part of God's overarching purpose to preserve the family of Israel and bring them to a place of safety during famine (Genesis 50:20).
  • Family Dynamics: The narrative provides a stark look at the complexities and challenges within a large, polygamous family, where sibling rivalry and parental bias can lead to devastating consequences.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "coat of many colours" from the KJV is a traditional translation of the Hebrew kethoneth passim. Modern scholars suggest this term could mean a "long-sleeved tunic" or a "full-length robe" reaching to the ankles and wrists, implying it was not a garment for work but one of distinction and luxury. Another interpretation is that it was an "ornamented" or "striped" tunic. Regardless of the exact appearance, its significance lay in its unique nature, setting Joseph apart from his brothers and confirming his father's special affection.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a timeless cautionary tale for parents and families today.

  • Avoid Favoritism: Parents are encouraged to love and affirm all their children equally, recognizing each child's unique gifts and needs, to prevent resentment and division within the family.
  • Understanding Consequences: It highlights how seemingly small acts of bias can have profound and lasting negative impacts on relationships.
  • Trusting God's Plan: Even amidst human failings and painful family dynamics, the story of Joseph reminds us that God can sovereignly work through difficult circumstances to accomplish His divine purposes.
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Cross-References

  • Genesis 37:32 (4 votes)

    And they sent the coat of [many] colours, and they brought [it] to their father; and said, This have we found: know now whether it [be] thy son's coat or no.

  • John 13:22 (4 votes)

    Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.

  • John 13:23 (4 votes)

    Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.

  • 2 Samuel 13:18 (4 votes)

    And [she had] a garment of divers colours upon her: for with such robes were the king's daughters [that were] virgins apparelled. Then his servant brought her out, and bolted the door after her.

  • Genesis 37:23 (3 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass, when Joseph was come unto his brethren, that they stript Joseph out of his coat, [his] coat of [many] colours that [was] on him;

  • John 3:35 (2 votes)

    The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into his hand.

  • Ezekiel 16:16 (2 votes)

    And of thy garments thou didst take, and deckedst thy high places with divers colours, and playedst the harlot thereupon: [the like things] shall not come, neither shall it be [so].