Genesis 37:29Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The sacred text reveals that Reuben advised throwing Joseph into the pit, hoping to rescue him from his brothers and return him to their father. However, upon realizing that he had failed in his plan, Reuben is said to have ripped his garments.

Reuben arrived at the pit unaware of the events that had transpired. Upon discovering that the boy was missing, he feared the worst and rent his garments, holding his brothers accountable for Joseph's disappearance. He lamented, "There is no boy; what shall I do?"

Reuben did not attend the feast. He was not involved in the wicked conspiracy, nor did he partake in the celebration of the treachery. Stealthily, he approaches the pit and cries out for the one who had been cast away. There is silence. He calls once more... still no response! In his anguish, he rends his garments.