And his brethren envied him; but his father observed the saying.
In this verse, we see the intense jealousy that Joseph’s brothers felt towards him. Their jealousy stemmed from the favoritism that Jacob, their father, showed towards Joseph by giving him a coat of many colors. This special treatment caused resentment to build up in the hearts of his brothers, leading them to envy Joseph.
However, despite the envy and animosity that his brothers felt towards him, Jacob noticed something significant in the situation. He took note of the saying, perhaps recognizing the potential for strife among his sons. Jacob’s observation indicates that he was aware of the tension within his family and understood the implications of favoritism.
This verse sets the stage for the events that will unfold in Joseph’s life, ultimately leading to his betrayal by his brothers and his journey towards becoming a powerful leader in Egypt. It serves as a crucial moment in the narrative of Joseph’s story, highlighting the themes of jealousy, betrayal, and divine providence.
Image by Ai Junkie
