Genesis 37:29

When Reuben returned to the pit and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes,

Study Bible

When Reuben returned to the pit
Reuben, the eldest son of Jacob, had initially suggested throwing Joseph into the pit to rescue him later, intending to return him to their father. This reflects Reuben's attempt to assert his leadership and responsibility as the firstborn, despite his previous failings, such as his indiscretion with Bilhah (Genesis 35:22). The pit, likely a cistern, was a common feature in the arid regions of Canaan, used to collect rainwater. This setting underscores the desolation and danger Joseph faced, symbolizing the depths of betrayal by his brothers.

and saw that Joseph was not there,
Reuben's discovery that Joseph was missing indicates a significant turning point in the narrative. His absence from the pit foreshadows the unfolding of God's providential plan, despite human intentions. This moment connects to the broader biblical theme of God's sovereignty, as seen in Joseph's eventual rise to power in Egypt, which was part of God's plan to preserve the Israelites during famine (Genesis 50:20). The absence also highlights the brothers' deceit and the beginning of their guilt and fear, which will later be confronted when they meet Joseph in Egypt.

he tore his clothes,
Tearing one's clothes was a traditional expression of grief, distress, or repentance in ancient Near Eastern cultures, including among the Israelites. This act signifies Reuben's deep anguish and despair over the loss of Joseph, whom he had hoped to save. It also reflects the cultural practices of mourning, seen elsewhere in the Bible, such as when Jacob mourns Joseph (Genesis 37:34) and when Job laments his suffering (Job 1:20). Reuben's reaction foreshadows the eventual reconciliation and redemption themes that run throughout Joseph's story, as well as the broader narrative of Israel's history.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Reuben
The eldest son of Jacob and Leah, Reuben is portrayed as a conflicted character who initially intends to rescue Joseph from his brothers' plot. His tearing of clothes signifies deep distress and mourning.

2. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, Joseph is the victim of his brothers' jealousy. His absence from the pit marks a pivotal moment in the account, leading to his eventual journey to Egypt.

3. The Pit
A cistern or dry well where Joseph's brothers initially threw him. It symbolizes betrayal and the depths of despair, contrasting with Joseph's later rise to power.

4. The Brothers
The other sons of Jacob, who conspire against Joseph out of jealousy. Their actions set the stage for the unfolding of God's providential plan.

5. Jacob
Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Jacob is the father of Reuben and Joseph, whose favoritism towards Joseph fuels the brothers' envy.

Teaching Points

The Consequences of Sin
Reuben's distress is a direct result of the brothers' sinful actions. Sin often leads to unintended consequences and deep regret.

The Importance of Leadership
As the eldest, Reuben had a responsibility to lead his brothers wisely. His failure to do so serves as a reminder of the importance of godly leadership.

Expressions of Grief
Tearing one's clothes was a traditional expression of mourning. Understanding cultural expressions of grief can deepen our empathy and compassion for others.

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Despite the brothers' betrayal, God's plan for Joseph's life unfolds perfectly. This encourages believers to trust in God's sovereignty, even in difficult circumstances.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Reuben's reaction to Joseph's absence reflect his character and leadership among his brothers?

2. In what ways can we see God's providence at work in the events surrounding Joseph's life, despite human sinfulness?

3. How do cultural expressions of grief, like tearing clothes, help us understand the depth of emotion in biblical accounts?

4. What lessons can we learn from Reuben's failure to prevent his brothers' actions, and how can we apply these lessons to our own leadership roles?

5. How does the account of Joseph and his brothers connect to the broader theme of redemption found throughout the Bible?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 42:22
Reuben later reminds his brothers of their guilt concerning Joseph, showing his ongoing struggle with the events of Genesis 37.

Job 1:20
Job tears his clothes in mourning, similar to Reuben, highlighting a cultural expression of grief and loss.

Matthew 27:51
The tearing of the temple veil at Jesus' crucifixion can be seen as a divine expression of grief and a significant turning point, much like Reuben's act marks a turning point in Joseph's account.