“And he said to him, Go, I pray thee, see whether it be well with thy brethren, and well with the flocks; and bring me word again. So he sent him out of the vale of Hebron, and he came to Shechem.”
This verse is a part of the story of Joseph, one of the sons of Jacob (also known as Israel). It takes place at a time when Joseph’s brothers were tending to their father’s flocks in Shechem, while Joseph remained with their father in the vale of Hebron.
To understand the significance of this verse, it’s helpful to provide some context. Joseph was the favourite son of Jacob, and he was given a coat of many colours by his father, which further stirred the jealousy and resentment of his brothers. Joseph had also been blessed with dreams that indicated he would have authority over his family. These dreams heightened the animosity of his brothers toward him.
In this particular verse, Jacob, their father, sends Joseph to check on the well-being of his brothers and the flocks. It demonstrates a few key points:
- Jacob’s concern for his sons:Despite the favouritism shown towards Joseph, Jacob still cared about the well-being of his other sons and wanted to ensure they were safe and their work was progressing as expected. This highlights Jacob’s role as a father figure, showing his care and responsibility for his family.
- Joseph’s obedience:Joseph promptly obeys his father’s request and sets out to find his brothers. His obedience and willingness to carry out his father’s instructions are evident here, portraying him as a dutiful son.
- The distance between Joseph and his brothers:The verse mentions that Joseph was sent from the vale of Hebron to Shechem. This physical separation suggests a potential disconnect between Joseph and his brothers. It foreshadows the subsequent events that unfold, leading to Joseph’s eventual separation from his family and his journey to Egypt.
The story of Joseph and his brothers is a significant narrative within the book of Genesis, showcasing themes such as jealousy, forgiveness, and God’s providential plan. This verse marks a crucial point in the story, setting the stage for the dramatic events that follow and the eventual rise of Joseph as a prominent figure in Egypt.
