Commentary on Genesis 37:32

Text of Genesis 37:32: "And they sent the coat of many colours, and they brought it to their father; and said, This have we found: know now whether it be thy son’s coat or no."

Introduction

The narrative of Genesis 37 unfolds the complexities of familial relations, jealousy, and the providence of God. As we examine verse 32, we observe a pivotal moment in the tragedy of Joseph and the deceit practiced by his brothers. This commentary draws insights from public domain sources to enrich understanding for pastors, students, theologians, and Bible scholars.

Contextual Background

The events leading to Genesis 37:32 elucidate the environment of Jacob's family. Jacob, who had favored Joseph with a coat of many colors, ignited the jealousy of his other sons. The brothers' plot against Joseph culminates in his being sold into slavery. This moment marks a point of no return, where familial strife and deception ensue.

The Significance of the Coat

The coat of many colors serves several symbolic roles:

• Favor and Special Status: Albert Barnes notes that the coat signifies Jacob’s favoritism, provoking envy in Joseph's brothers. This garment represents Joseph's position in the family, possibly suggesting a divine destiny that further infuriated his siblings.
• Material Wealth: Matthew Henry highlights the luxurious nature of the coat, indicating Jacob's wealth. This adds another layer of tension as the other sons perceived a lack of equitable treatment.
• Identity: Adam Clarke comments on the coat's representation of Joseph's identity among the family. By stripping him of his coat, the brothers aimed to sever his perceived place in the family and erode his status.

The Brothers' Deception

Genesis 37:32 illustrates a climactic moment of deception:

• Calculated Deceit: The brothers bring the coat to Jacob, meticulously crafting a narrative of uncertainty. This is noted by Matthew Henry, who discusses the cruel nature of their act—creating heartache through premeditated lies.
• Parental Manipulation: Clarke expands on how the brothers manipulate their father’s emotions. By invoking his paternal instincts, they intensify the sorrow and distress Jacob experiences, which highlights their deep-seated malice.

Jacob's Reaction

Jacob’s response to seeing Joseph's coat exemplifies raw grief and the agony of parental loss.

• Expressions of Grief: Jacob immediately concludes that Joseph has died. As Barnes notes, the garment serves as a means to evoke profound sorrow, portraying the depths of a father's heartbreak.
• Identification and Loss: Henry points out that Jacob's identification with the coat represents a loss of innocence and the overwhelming reality of betrayal within his own household.

Theological Implications

Genesis 37:32 serves as a reflection on a few key theological themes:

• The Nature of Sin: The sin of the brothers in deceiving Jacob shows the destructive nature of jealousy and hatred. Clarke emphasizes that jealousy leads to actions that have profound consequences, both temporally and spiritually.
• God's Sovereignty: Despite the treachery displayed, there is an underlying principle of divine sovereignty. This narrative sets the stage for God's providence in later events, where Joseph, despite suffering, rises to prominence in Egypt (a point reiterated by Henry).
• Lessons on Family Dynamics: The breakdown of trust within Jacob’s family serves as a warning for God’s people about the need for unity and righteous conduct, which Barnes emphasizes as essential for familial harmony.

Conclusion

Genesis 37:32 encapsulates the tragic consequences of deception and the complexities of family relations. The coat of many colors symbolizes not only favoritism but also the strife that ensues from jealousy. The actions of Joseph's brothers serve as a cautionary tale regarding the destructive potential of sin. Yet, within this narrative is a portrayal of God’s enduring sovereignty, which will ultimately bring about reconciliation and restoration in the life of Joseph and his family.

This commentary urges scholars and theologians to reflect deeply on the intricate dynamics at play in this passage and to consider the implications of familial relationships in light of divine providence.