Key Figures — Genesis 37

5 figures

Joseph
Favored son of Jacob and dreamer.
Joseph is introduced as Jacob's favorite son, which causes jealousy among his brothers. He shares dreams that suggest he will rule over his family, further inciting their anger.
Related passages
Jacob
Father of Joseph and patriarch of the Israelite tribes.
Jacob shows favoritism towards Joseph, giving him a coat of many colors, which exacerbates the tension between Joseph and his brothers.
Related passages
- Genesis Chapter 32 (Jacob's wrestling with God)
- Genesis Chapter 49 (Jacob's blessings to his sons)
Reuben
Eldest son of Jacob who attempts to save Joseph.
Reuben suggests throwing Joseph into a pit instead of killing him, intending to rescue him later, showing a degree of responsibility and compassion.
Related passages
- Genesis Chapter 42 (Reuben's plea to his brothers in Egypt)
Judah
One of Joseph's brothers who proposes selling Joseph.
Judah suggests selling Joseph to the Ishmaelites instead of killing him, which leads to Joseph's eventual journey to Egypt.
Related passages
- Genesis Chapter 44 (Judah's plea for Benjamin)
- Genesis Chapter 49 (Judah's blessing and prophecy)
Ishmaelites
Traders who buy Joseph from his brothers.
The Ishmaelites are the traders who purchase Joseph from his brothers and take him to Egypt, setting the stage for his future rise to power.
Related passages
- Genesis Chapter 16 (Origin of the Ishmaelites)

Joseph