What is the meaning of Genesis 37:19? “Here comes” - The brothers notice Joseph at a distance, and their words show that they are keeping watch for him (Genesis 37:18). - Their statement underlines God’s providential timing: Joseph arrives at just the moment that will set in motion the events leading eventually to Egypt (Genesis 45:5–7; Psalm 105:17). - Similar scenes of an oncoming figure used by God appear in 1 Samuel 17:23 (David approaching Goliath) and Luke 15:20 (the prodigal son returning). In each, God is orchestrating deliverance or restoration. “that dreamer!” - The phrase carries scorn. Joseph’s prophetic dreams (Genesis 37:5–11) are mocked rather than honored, echoing later mockery of God’s spokesmen (2 Chronicles 36:16; Matthew 27:41–43). - Their contempt shows a heart posture opposed to divine revelation. Compare Numbers 12:6, where God affirms that He speaks through dreams, highlighting that rejecting the dreamer equals rejecting God’s message. - Ironically, the very label they sneer with will prove true; Joseph’s dreams will be fulfilled precisely (Genesis 42:6; 50:18), demonstrating God’s unbreakable word (Isaiah 55:11). “they said” - Speech reveals intent (Luke 6:45). The brothers’ words expose unchecked envy (Acts 7:9) and foreshadow murderous planning (Genesis 37:20). - Scripture often records inner dialogue to spotlight accountability—see Esther 6:6 or Mark 2:6–8. God hears private talk and judges it (Psalm 139:4). - Their collective voice contrasts with Joseph’s solitary testimony; one righteous witness often stands against many (1 Kings 22:8; John 7:7). “to one another” - Sin multiplies in community when grievance is shared rather than surrendered to God (Proverbs 1:10–15). - Genesis repeatedly warns of conspiratorial talk: Babel’s builders said “to one another” (Genesis 11:3–4), and Lot’s sons-in-law likewise dismissed warning (Genesis 19:14). - The phrase stresses joint responsibility; not one brother alone but all participate, prefiguring collective guilt and later repentance (Genesis 42:21). summary Genesis 37:19 captures a moment of derision and conspiracy. The brothers’ casual remark—“Here comes that dreamer!”—reveals watchful resentment, contempt for divine revelation, sinful agreement expressed in speech, and collective plotting. Yet God turns their hostility into the very avenue by which Joseph’s dreams, and God’s purposes for Israel, are fulfilled. |
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