Genesis 37:15Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Observe the diligence with which he searches for his brethren; he toils, he explores, and he takes every measure to find them.

As he journeyed through the desert, an individual approached him and inquired about his destination, the purpose of his travels, and the identity of those he was seeking.

Upon receiving his father's directive, Joseph set out with joy to meet his brothers, carrying with him greetings of peace from his parents and a genuine concern for their well-being. However, he became lost along the journey and was unable to locate his brothers and their flocks. In his distress and sorrow over their absence, a man encountered him and guided him on the right path.

Joseph wandered justly, for he was in search of the lost, as the Lord recognizes those who belong to Him (Num. 16:5; 2 Tim. 2:19; cf. Jn. 10:14). In the end, Jesus, also feeling weary, rested by the well (Jn. 4:6). He who sought the people of God found Himself fatigued, for they were concealed from the sight of the Lord (Gen. 4:16). Those who pursue sin distance themselves from Christ. The sinner may conceal himself, while the righteous approaches Him openly. Likewise, Adam, as a transgressor, attempted to hide (Gen. 3:8); in contrast, the righteous declares, "Let my prayer come before Thy face" (Psalm 87:3).

Joseph departed from his father's home in Hebron and arrived in Shechem. His brothers were absent, and he was unsure of their whereabouts, so he began to search and inquire. Unexpectedly, a passerby encountered him and inquired about whom he sought.