Genesis 37:28

So when the Midianite traders passed by, his brothers pulled Joseph out of the pit and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.

Study Bible

So when the Midianite traders passed by
The Midianites were descendants of Midian, a son of Abraham by Keturah (Genesis 25:1-2). They were a nomadic people known for trading, often traveling in caravans. This context highlights the interconnectedness of Abraham's descendants and sets the stage for Joseph's journey to Egypt, a pivotal moment in biblical history.

his brothers pulled Joseph out of the pit
Joseph's brothers had initially thrown him into a pit, intending to leave him there to die (Genesis 37:24). This act of pulling him out signifies a change in their plan, influenced by Judah's suggestion to sell him instead (Genesis 37:26-27). The pit can be seen as a type of death and resurrection, prefiguring Christ's death and resurrection.

and sold him for twenty shekels of silver
The price of twenty shekels of silver was the typical value of a young male slave during this period. This transaction foreshadows the betrayal of Jesus Christ, who was sold for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:15). The act of selling Joseph by his own brothers highlights themes of betrayal and redemption.

to the Ishmaelites
The Ishmaelites, like the Midianites, were descendants of Abraham, through Ishmael (Genesis 16:15). The interchangeable use of "Midianites" and "Ishmaelites" in this passage reflects the close relationship and overlapping identities of these groups. This connection emphasizes the broader narrative of God's covenant with Abraham and its unfolding through his descendants.

who took him to Egypt
Egypt serves as a significant location in biblical history, often representing a place of both refuge and oppression. Joseph's journey to Egypt sets the stage for the eventual migration of Jacob's family there, leading to the Israelites' enslavement and subsequent Exodus. This movement to Egypt is part of God's sovereign plan, as later revealed in Genesis 50:20, where Joseph acknowledges God's purpose in his suffering.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, who was betrayed by his brothers and sold into slavery.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who, out of jealousy and hatred, plotted against Joseph.

3. Midianite Traders
Merchants passing by who were involved in the transaction of selling Joseph.

4. Ishmaelites
The group to whom Joseph was sold, who then took him to Egypt.

5. Egypt
The land where Joseph would eventually rise to power, but initially a place of slavery and hardship.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Even in betrayal and hardship, God is at work to fulfill His purposes.

The Cost of Jealousy
Jealousy can lead to destructive actions that have long-lasting consequences.

The Value of Forgiveness
Joseph's later forgiveness of his brothers is a powerful example of grace and reconciliation.

Trust in God's Plan
Like Joseph, we may not understand our circumstances, but we can trust that God is in control.

The Role of Providence
God's providence is evident as He uses human actions, even sinful ones, to accomplish His divine will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's experience of being sold into slavery reflect God's larger plan for his life and the nation of Israel?

2. In what ways can jealousy manifest in our lives today, and how can we guard against it?

3. How does Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty during difficult times?

4. What parallels can we draw between Joseph's betrayal and the betrayal of Jesus, and what do these teach us about God's redemptive plan?

5. How can we apply the principle of forgiveness in our relationships, following Joseph's example with his brothers?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 45:4-8
Joseph later reveals himself to his brothers and explains that God used their actions for good, to save many lives.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen recounts Joseph's account, highlighting God's providence and Joseph's rise to power in Egypt.

Psalm 105:17-19
Reflects on Joseph's journey and God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises.

Matthew 26:15
The betrayal of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver, drawing a parallel to Joseph's betrayal.