Genesis 37:31

Then they took Joseph's robe, slaughtered a young goat, and dipped the robe in its blood.

Study Bible

Then they took Joseph’s robe
Joseph's robe, often referred to as the "coat of many colors," symbolizes his father's favoritism and the special status he held within the family. This garment becomes a focal point of his brothers' jealousy and resentment. The act of taking the robe signifies their intent to strip Joseph of his favored position. This robe is a tangible representation of Jacob's love, and its removal marks the beginning of Joseph's trials. The robe also foreshadows the stripping of Jesus' garments before His crucifixion, highlighting themes of betrayal and suffering.

slaughtered a young goat
The slaughtering of a young goat is significant in the biblical narrative. Goats were commonly used in sacrificial practices, and their blood was often associated with atonement and deception. This act of slaughtering a goat for deceitful purposes contrasts with the later use of goat blood in the Day of Atonement rituals (Leviticus 16). The use of a goat here also echoes the deception Jacob himself perpetrated on his father Isaac, using goat skins to mimic Esau's hairy arms (Genesis 27). This cyclical theme of deception within the family highlights the consequences of sin and deceit.

and dipped the robe in its blood
Dipping the robe in blood is a deliberate act to deceive their father, Jacob, into believing that Joseph has been killed by a wild animal. Blood in the Bible often symbolizes life and death, covenant, and sacrifice. This act of deception is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for Joseph's journey to Egypt and eventual rise to power. The imagery of blood-stained garments is later mirrored in Revelation 19:13, where Christ is described as wearing a robe dipped in blood, symbolizing His righteous judgment and victory. This connection underscores the themes of redemption and divine justice woven throughout the biblical narrative.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, who was given a special robe by his father. His brothers were envious of him, leading to their plot against him.

2. Joseph's Brothers
The sons of Jacob who were envious of Joseph and conspired to harm him. They are the ones who took his robe and dipped it in goat's blood.

3. Jacob (Israel)
The father of Joseph and his brothers, who favored Joseph, causing tension among his sons.

4. Dothan
The place where Joseph's brothers plotted against him and where they sold him into slavery.

5. The Robe
A symbol of Jacob's favoritism towards Joseph, which became a tool in the brothers' deception.

Teaching Points

The Dangers of Envy
Envy can lead to destructive actions and broken relationships. Joseph's brothers allowed their jealousy to drive them to sin.

The Consequences of Deception
Deception often leads to further pain and suffering, as seen in the grief it caused Jacob.

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Despite human sinfulness, God's plans prevail. Joseph's account ultimately leads to the preservation of his family.

The Importance of Integrity
Upholding truth and integrity is crucial, even when faced with difficult circumstances.

The Role of Forgiveness
Joseph's eventual forgiveness of his brothers highlights the power of reconciliation and grace.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the favoritism shown by Jacob contribute to the events in Genesis 37:31, and what can we learn about the impact of favoritism in families today?

2. In what ways does the deception involving Joseph's robe parallel other instances of deception in the Bible, and what lessons can we draw from these parallels?

3. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers illustrate the concept of God's sovereignty, and how can this understanding impact our response to personal trials?

4. What steps can we take to guard against envy and jealousy in our own lives, and how can we promote unity and love within our communities?

5. How does Joseph's eventual forgiveness of his brothers challenge us to approach forgiveness in our own relationships, and what other biblical examples of forgiveness can we learn from?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37:3-4
Provides context for the favoritism Jacob showed Joseph, which fueled his brothers' jealousy.

Genesis 37:23-24
Describes the moment when Joseph's brothers stripped him of his robe, setting the stage for their deception.

Genesis 37:32-33
Details how the brothers used the bloodied robe to deceive Jacob into believing Joseph was dead.

Genesis 27:16
Relates to the theme of deception using a goat, as Rebekah and Jacob deceived Isaac with goat skins.

Matthew 27:28-29
Connects to the theme of a robe being used in mockery and deception, as Jesus was clothed in a scarlet robe before His crucifixion.