Genesis 37:20

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.

Genesis 37:20 (KJV)

Context

Genesis 37 opens the story of Joseph, the son of Jacob, also called Israel. Joseph was his father’s favorite, and this favor stirred deep jealousy among his brothers. In verse 20, the brothers conspire to kill him and throw him into a pit, then deceive their father by claiming a wild animal devoured him. The pit was likely a cistern for collecting rainwater, common in that dry land. Their words reveal envy and a desire to silence Joseph’s dreams.

Meaning

The brothers’ plan shows how jealousy can harden the heart. They say, “let us slay him,” and “cast him into some pit,” treating Joseph as an object to be removed. The pit symbolizes abandonment and isolation, a place of darkness and death. Their mockery, “we shall see what will become of his dreams,” exposes their unbelief and contempt for God’s revelation. Yet the narrative soon shows Reuben, the eldest, intervening to save Joseph (Genesis 37:21-22), proving that even in evil, God can raise up compassion.

Biblical connections

This verse sets the stage for God’s providence. Though the brothers intend harm, God later uses their actions to send Joseph to Egypt, where he becomes a ruler and preserves his family during famine. The dreams they mocked were a glimpse of God’s plan, not mere human ambition. Human schemes cannot thwart God’s purposes.

Application

We are warned to guard against envy, which blinds us to God’s blessings and leads to harmful actions. We are encouraged to trust God’s sovereignty even when circumstances seem dark, knowing He can work through difficulty. We are also urged to hold onto the promises God gives us, as Joseph did, despite opposition.

Reflection

This verse calls us to examine our own hearts for jealousy and to choose compassion over cruelty. It reminds us that God’s faithfulness can turn betrayal into blessing, and that no pit is too deep for His purposes to reach.