Meaning of Genesis 37:11

This verse, Genesis 37:11, highlights a crucial turning point in the narrative of Joseph and his family, revealing the potent forces of envy and paternal favoritism that simmer beneath the surface of their domestic life. Jacob's "keeping the matter in mind" signifies a conscious awareness and perhaps a subtle indulgence of Joseph's favored status, which, while not explicitly condoned, contributes to the growing resentment among his older brothers. Their jealousy, fueled by the visible preference Jacob displayed through the special coat and Joseph's prophetic dreams, culminates in a conspiracy against him, demonstrating how unchecked emotions and perceived injustices can lead to profound familial discord and devastating consequences.

Context and Background

Genesis 37 recounts the story of Joseph, the beloved son of Jacob (Israel) and Rachel. Jacob's deep affection for Joseph, particularly after Rachel's death, is expressed through favoritism, most notably by giving him a richly ornamented "coat of many colors." This outward sign of distinction, coupled with Joseph's recounting of dreams that suggest his future preeminence over his brothers, ignites intense jealousy and hatred within them. The brothers are shepherds, engaged in a life of manual labor and communal responsibility, while Joseph appears to be a pampered youth, seemingly detached from their struggles. This disparity, both in treatment and in perceived status, forms the immediate backdrop for their animosity.

Key Themes and Messages

• Favoritism and its Consequences: The verse directly addresses the corrosive effect of paternal favoritism. Jacob's clear preference for Joseph creates an environment of division and resentment within the family. This demonstrates how unequal treatment, even if unintentional in its extremity, can sow seeds of discord.
• Jealousy and Envy: The brothers' intense jealousy is a primary motivator for their actions. It stems from a perceived injustice and a threat to their own status and perceived birthright. This highlights the destructive power of envy, which can lead to malice and betrayal.
• Foresight and Providence: Jacob's act of "keeping the matter in mind" can be interpreted as a subtle acknowledgment of the situation's gravity, or even a nascent understanding of divine involvement. While the brothers act out of human malice, Jacob's awareness hints at a larger, unfolding plan.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This passage serves as a stark reminder of the human propensity for sin, particularly envy and hatred, which can arise even within the closest familial bonds. It underscores the importance of fairness and avoiding favoritism in leadership and parenting, as such practices can breed bitterness and rebellion. For individuals, it calls for self-awareness regarding feelings of jealousy and the need to address them constructively rather than allowing them to fester into harmful actions. Furthermore, Jacob's passive observation, while contributing to the problem, also sets the stage for a divinely orchestrated intervention, suggesting that God can work through difficult circumstances and flawed human choices to achieve His purposes.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

Genesis 37:11 is a pivotal moment that initiates Joseph's journey into slavery and subsequent rise to power in Egypt, as detailed in the rest of the book of Genesis. This narrative arc is crucial for the survival of the Israelite people during a future famine, fulfilling God's covenant promises to Abraham. Joseph's story, beginning with this familial conflict, becomes a powerful illustration of God's ability to "turn what is meant for evil into good" (Genesis 50:20). It foreshadows themes of suffering, redemption, and the unfolding of God's sovereign plan through seemingly ordinary or even tragic events.

Analogies

One analogy for Jacob's favoritism and the brothers' jealousy is a classroom where a teacher consistently praises one student for minor achievements, while overlooking the diligent efforts of others. This can lead to resentment among the other students and a sense of unfairness. Another analogy could be a sports team where the coach openly favors a particular player, providing more opportunities and accolades, which can demotivate the rest of the team and create internal strife.

Relation to Other Verses

• Genesis 27:41: This verse directly precedes the mention of Joseph's coat and dreams, explaining that Esau harbored a deep resentment against Jacob because of the stolen blessing, mirroring the brothers' animosity towards Joseph due to Jacob's favoritism.
• Proverbs 14:30: "A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones." This proverb directly speaks to the destructive nature of envy that the brothers exhibit.
• Matthew 27:18: In the New Testament, Pilate recognizes that the chief priests handed Jesus over to him "out of envy," demonstrating that this sin is a recurring theme throughout biblical history.
• Genesis 50:20: Joseph himself later articulates the overarching divine purpose, stating, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring about that many lives should be preserved." This verse provides the redemptive counterpoint to the malice described in Genesis 37.