Genesis 37:12
Arabic Bible AVD 1999 (الكتاب المقدس)
وَمَضَى إِخْوَتُهُ لِيَرْعَوْا غَنَمَ أَبِيهِمْ عِنْدَ شَكِيمَ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse from Genesis tells us that Joseph's brothers went to take care of their father Jacob's sheep in a place called Shechem. It describes a typical pastoral activity of the time without any direct speech, but it sets the stage for the next part of the story.
Explained for Children
Imagine you and your brothers are given the job to take care of the family cows at the farm. This is just like that, but instead of cows, they were taking care of sheep in a place called Shechem.
Historical Background
The book of Genesis was written by Moses around 1446-1406 BC. It was written for the Israelites as they journeyed from Egypt to the Promised Land, providing them with a narrative of their ancestors' lives and the covenant with God. The pastoral lifestyle was common in the ancient Near East.
Living It Out Today
In today's world, this can be seen as a reminder of the importance of working together and fulfilling responsibilities. Just like Joseph's brothers had to take care of the flock, we too have roles and responsibilities that we need to fulfill in our families and communities.
Topics
responsibilityfamilyshepherdingpastoral lifeGenesiscovenant
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the location Shechem?
Shechem was an important city in the ancient Near East, often mentioned in the Old Testament as a place of significant historical and religious events. Its mention here places the story within a specific geographic and historical context.
Why is the feeding of the flock important?
Feeding the flock was a crucial responsibility in ancient times, ensuring the survival and health of the livestock which were central to the economy and livelihood of the family.
How does this verse relate to the story of Joseph?
This verse sets the stage for the next part of Joseph's story by indicating where his brothers were when he was sent to find them, leading to the pivotal moment of their encounter.
What can we learn about family dynamics from this verse?
This verse highlights the division within Joseph's family, showing how Joseph's brothers were separate from him and his father, setting the scene for the complex family interactions that follow.