Genesis 37:20
French (La Bible expliquée)
Profitons-en pour le tuer. Nous jetterons son cadavre dans une citerne et nous dirons qu'une bête féroce l'a dévoré. On verra bien alors si ses rêves se réalisent. »
What Does This Mean?
In Genesis 37:20, Joseph's brothers are speaking and plotting to kill Joseph and blame his disappearance on a wild animal. This is their plan to stop Joseph from being the favored son and to eliminate his dreams.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a sibling who always gets the best presents and your parents always seem to love them more. You and your friends might feel very jealous and want to hide them in a treehouse and say they ran away. That's what Joseph's brothers are thinking, but it's very wrong.
Historical Background
This verse is from the Book of Genesis, part of the Torah, written around 1200 BCE. It was likely compiled by Moses and reflects the culture of the Israelites, emphasizing family dynamics and the importance of dreams as divine messages.
Living It Out Today
In a modern context, this verse can remind us about the dangers of jealousy and the consequences of plotting against someone. For example, colleagues plotting to sabotage a successful team member should reflect on the ethical implications and potential fallout.
Topics
jealousyfamily dynamicsconsequences of sindivine favordream interpretationsibling rivalry
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
What motivated Joseph's brothers to plan his death?
Joseph's brothers were jealous because Joseph was their father's favorite and Joseph had dreams indicating he would be ruler over them.
What does this verse teach us about the consequences of jealousy?
This verse shows that jealousy can lead to extreme actions like planning murder, illustrating the serious consequences of unchecked negative emotions.
How does this verse relate to the theme of betrayal in the Bible?
This verse is a prime example of betrayal within a family, highlighting how close relationships can be strained by envy and deceit.
What can parents learn from this verse about raising children?
Parents can learn about the importance of fairness and communication to prevent jealousy and conflict among siblings.