(Genesis 37:5–10) Do these dreams realistically align with ancient cultural beliefs, or do they suggest later embellishments inserted into the text?

(Genesis 37:12–17) Are there any historical records or evidence supporting Joseph’s journey to Shechem and Dothan that validate this narrative?

(Genesis 37:25–28) How plausible is it that Midianites and Ishmaelites are used interchangeably here without creating confusion about who purchased Joseph?

(Genesis 37:34–35) Do the customs of mourning described align with verifiable ancient practices, or do they hint at anachronistic traditions introduced later?

1. How does favoritism impact family dynamics, as seen in this chapter?

2. How can dreams be interpreted in the context of this story, and how might we interpret dreams in our own lives?

3. If you were Joseph, would you have shared your dreams? Why or why not?

4. How do you understand the brothers' reaction to Joseph's dreams? How do you handle jealousy in your life?

5. If you were in Reuben's position, how would you handle the situation differently?

6. What motivations led to Judah suggesting the sale of Joseph? How do we justify actions that might not be morally right?

7. Consider the brothers' decision to deceive their father. Have there been times when you have deceived someone to cover a mistake? How did that affect you and the person involved?

8. How did Jacob's reaction to Joseph's supposed death influence the family's dynamics?

9. How does this chapter show the possible consequences of jealousy and resentment?

10. If you were Joseph, how would you react to the situation in Egypt?

11. How might Joseph's journey to Egypt fit into God's larger plan?

12. Can good ever emerge from betrayal? Can you provide any examples from your own life?

13. How does this chapter address the theme of resilience in the face of adversity?

14. What lessons can we learn from Jacob's grief?

15. How can one maintain faith in times of despair, as experienced by Joseph and Jacob?

16. What lessons about conflict resolution can we learn from this narrative?

17. How does this chapter highlight the theme of divine providence?

18. Compare and contrast Joseph's brothers' treatment of him with the ideal of brotherly love. How can this inform our relationships with our own siblings?

19. What could Joseph's story teach us about perseverance in the face of hardship?

20. How does this story speak to issues of forgiveness and reconciliation that will come later in Joseph's life?