Come now therefore, and let vs slay him, and cast him into some pit, and we will say, Some euill beast hath deuoured him: and we shall see what will become of his dreames. Genesis 37:20 (KJV)
Genesis 37 introduces the beginning of Joseph’s story, the son of Jacob (Israel). Joseph was favored by his father, a circumstance that stirred deep‑rooted jealousy and sibling rivalry among his brothers. In verse 20 the brothers plot to harm Joseph, saying, “Come now therefore, and let us slay him, and cast him into some pit, and we will say, Some evil beast hath devoured him: and we shall see what will become of his dreams.” Their plan to throw Joseph into a pit symbolizes abandonment and isolation, a metaphorical prison or pitfall in life. The passage highlights how jealousy, a destructive emotion, can lead to harmful thoughts and actions.
Despite the brothers’ evil intent, the broader narrative demonstrates God’s providence and sovereignty. God works through even the darkest circumstances to fulfill His purposes, later raising Joseph to a position of authority in Egypt and using him to preserve his family during a severe famine. Joseph’s dreams, which his brothers mocked, were a glimpse of God’s plan: a future where Joseph would have authority and his family would bow before him. The text shows that God often communicates His purposes through dreams and visions.
From this passage we draw several lessons. First, we are warned to avoid jealousy and envy, which can blind us to God’s blessings and cause us to harm others. Second, we are encouraged to trust God’s providence, even when circumstances seem adverse, knowing He can work through difficulty to accomplish His plans. Finally, we are urged to hold onto the dreams and promises God gives us, just as Joseph clung to the visions of his future despite opposition. Genesis 37:20 thus serves both as a caution against wicked intentions and as a testament to God’s faithfulness in turning betrayal into blessing.
