What is the meaning of Genesis 37:21?

When Reuben heard this

- The “this” refers to the brothers’ conspiracy in Genesis 37:18-20 to murder Joseph.

- As firstborn (Genesis 29:32), Reuben carried family responsibility. Hearing a murderous plot jolted that sense of duty.

- Scripture often shows God stirring someone’s heart at the critical moment—compare Esther 6:1-3 or Acts 23:16.

- Reuben’s immediate awareness underscores God’s providence: Joseph’s life would be spared so the dreams of Genesis 37:5-11 could unfold literally.

---

He tried to rescue Joseph from their hands

- “Tried” indicates deliberate effort, not mere sentiment. Reuben steps between rage and victim much like Moses later shields a Hebrew slave (Exodus 2:11-12).

- Deliverance is a repeated theme: Noah preserving life (Genesis 6:18-19), Boaz redeeming Ruth (Ruth 4:9-10), and ultimately Christ saving sinners (Romans 5:8).

- Though Reuben’s later moral failures are recorded (Genesis 35:22; 49:3-4), God still uses imperfect people to accomplish perfect plans—see Jonah 1:1-17 or Peter’s restoration in John 21:15-17.

- This rescue attempt pictures God’s unseen hand guarding covenant promises (Genesis 12:2-3; 50:20).

---

“Let us not take his life,” he said

- Reuben appeals for restraint, upholding the sanctity of life first laid down after the flood: “Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed” (Genesis 9:6).

- His words echo later commands: “You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13) and prohibitions against innocent blood (Deuteronomy 19:10).

- Although he will suggest throwing Joseph into a pit (Genesis 37:22), his initial plea already turns the brothers from outright homicide.

- The scene foreshadows others who argue for mercy—Judah for Benjamin (Genesis 44:18-34), Abigail for Nabal (1 Samuel 25:23-31), and Paul before a murderous mob (Acts 23:12-24).

---

summary

Reuben’s quick hearing, protective action, and plea for Joseph’s life display God’s providential safeguarding of His redemptive plan. The verse highlights the value of life, the responsibility of leadership, and the Lord’s ability to work through flawed people to fulfill literal promises that will carry Joseph—and ultimately Israel—toward their appointed destiny.