Genesis 37:19Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

They took the bold step of putting him to death due to their anxiety over the realization of his dreams. Yet, they ought to have understood that what God had proclaimed would inevitably come to pass.

Upon his arrival, he faced an unexpected assault. Envy seized the moment to execute a long-conceived scheme. The offspring of the handmaids Valla and Zelpha were resolute in their intent to end his life. Yet upon seeing him approach, they mocked the young man, whom they found repugnant, proclaiming, “Behold, a dreamer is coming.” (Gen. 37:19). However, when they recognized the Beloved who had come in the flesh, the wise Joseph, it is noted by the esteemed Evangelist John that, “even of the rulers many believed in Him; but for the Pharisees’ sake they did not confess” (John 12:42). Likewise, when they came to know Him, their fury against Him intensified.

Joseph encountered his brothers in Dothan, a name that signifies ‘abandonment’. Indeed, where would one who has neglected God find themselves but in neglect? It is no surprise that those who do not heed the speaker dwell in desolation: “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28). As Joseph approached Dothan, his brothers spotted him from a distance, and before he reached them, they conspired to take his life. Surely, those who were in separation were distant enough to devise such wickedness, for the Christ had not drawn near to them. Had a figure resembling Christ approached them, they would have perhaps cherished their brother; yet those who conspired to commit fratricide could not stand close to him.

From a distance, they identified him and started scheming to take his life. They discerned him from afar and initiated plans to bring about his death. "Let us slay him and claim that a wild animal has devoured him. Let’s see what comes of his dreams!" After these dreadful words, wicked hands were raised.

Dreamlord. The Hebrew term for lord of dreams carries deeper meaning and more disdain for Joseph. As Abarbenel suggests, it reflects the brothers' belief that Joseph fabricated his visions.