Q&A Books/Genesis Truth Boosters/Genesis 37Chapter 37Genesis 378questionsQ1.Why does Genesis 37:2 introduce Joseph’s story as part of Jacob’s family line? Isn’t it odd that the focus shifts almost entirely to Joseph when Jacob is the patriarch? Why is this structured the way it is, and how does Joseph’s story relate to the broader narrative of the Bible?Q2.What exactly was the 'bad report' that Joseph gave in Genesis 37:2? The text doesn’t seem to specify what he said. Was Joseph tattling on his brothers? And if so, why does this matter in the larger story? Does this mean Joseph was immature or that his brothers were truly in the wrong?Q3.What did Joseph’s ornate robe really look like, and why was it so significant? Was it just a fancy piece of clothing, or did it carry some deeper meaning in the story? Why would Jacob give such a robe to Joseph, knowing it would provoke jealousy among his brothers?Q4.Was Joseph just being arrogant and trying to provoke his brothers when he told them about his dreams? If he knew how much they already hated him, why didn’t he just keep quiet?Q5.Did the Ishmaelites normally buy people as slaves? Was this a common practice for them, or was Joseph’s sale a one-time event?Q6.Why would Reuben, the oldest son, go along with his brothers' cover-up of selling Joseph? If he didn't agree with their plan, why didn’t he speak up or stop them?Q7.Do you think Jacob really believed his sons’ story about Joseph being killed by a wild animal? Or was he afraid to dig deeper and find out the truth?Q8.Why did Jacob tear his clothes when he thought Joseph was dead? Was there something symbolic about this act, or was it just a cultural custom?
