Background and Context:
Reuben, the firstborn son of Jacob and Leah, plays a significant role in the narrative of Joseph and his brothers. As the eldest, Reuben held a position of responsibility among his siblings. The account of Reuben's attempt to save Joseph is found in the Book of Genesis, specifically in Genesis 37. This account is part of the larger narrative of Joseph, who was favored by his father Jacob, causing jealousy and animosity among his brothers.

The Plot Against Joseph:
Joseph's brothers were envious of him, particularly because of the special coat of many colors that Jacob had given him and because of Joseph's dreams, which suggested that he would one day rule over his family. This envy culminated in a plot to kill Joseph. As the brothers saw Joseph approaching them in Dothan, they conspired to kill him and throw him into a pit, claiming that a wild animal had devoured him.

Reuben's Intervention:
Reuben, however, sought to rescue Joseph from the hands of his brothers. In Genesis 37:21-22 , it is recorded: "When Reuben heard this, he tried to rescue him from their hands. 'Let us not take his life,' he said. 'Do not shed his blood. Throw him into this pit here in the wilderness, but do not lay a hand on him'—intending to rescue him from them and return him to his father." Reuben's suggestion to throw Joseph into a pit was a strategic move to prevent his brothers from killing Joseph outright, with the intention of later returning to rescue him and restore him to their father, Jacob.

Reuben's Absence and the Sale of Joseph:
Despite Reuben's initial intervention, the plan did not unfold as he intended. While Reuben was absent, the other brothers seized the opportunity to sell Joseph to a caravan of Ishmaelites traveling to Egypt. When Reuben returned to the pit and discovered that Joseph was gone, he was distraught. Genesis 37:29-30 describes his reaction: "When Reuben returned to the pit and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes. He went back to his brothers and said, 'The boy is gone! What am I going to do?'"

Reuben's Role and Responsibility:
Reuben's actions reflect a complex interplay of responsibility, leadership, and familial duty. As the eldest, he bore a greater burden to protect his younger siblings and maintain family unity. His attempt to save Joseph demonstrates a desire to fulfill this role, albeit imperfectly. Reuben's failure to prevent the sale of Joseph highlights the limitations of his influence over his brothers and foreshadows the ongoing familial strife that would later be reconciled through divine providence.

Theological Implications:
Reuben's attempt to save Joseph can be seen as an early indication of God's providential care over Joseph's life. Despite human intentions and failures, God's sovereign plan for Joseph's future in Egypt was being set into motion. Reuben's actions, though ultimately unsuccessful in the immediate sense, were part of the larger narrative that would lead to the preservation of the family of Israel during a time of famine.

Legacy:
Reuben's attempt to save Joseph is a testament to the complexities of human relationships and the moral challenges faced by individuals in positions of leadership. His account serves as a reminder of the importance of courage, responsibility, and the often unseen hand of God working through human actions to fulfill His divine purposes.