Genesis 37:3Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

To understand the depth of hidden intentions, consider the father's enduring love for his son, even amidst false accusations, and his preference for him over all his other children. The Scripture states, "Israel loved Joseph more than all his sons, because he was the son of his old age," and he adorned him with a richly decorated coat. The phrase “he loved Joseph more than all his sons, because he was the son of his old age” signifies that Joseph was born to him later in life, drawing forth the father's greater affection. Indeed, children born later in life often elicit a strong sense of attachment in parents, who seem more inclined to cherish them. However, Scripture shows us that it was not solely this timing that endeared Joseph to his father; after Joseph, another son was born.

What is the significance of this? Our expressions reflect the internal dispositions we carry. The natural affection that parents have for their children is comparable across all, showing no disparity in intensity. However, at times, instinct can overpower reason, prompting one to extend a hand to those in greater need, particularly to those requiring more profound care. In essence, among the many who come into the world, it seems that love reaches its peak and culminates with the youngest, who often feels a reflection of the affection that should have been shared with those who came before. Human nature tends to gravitate toward the new, often experiencing a sense of saturation with past events; thus, what is fresh or newly attained garners more attention and affection.

Father James harbored no hidden animosity towards Joseph; rather, he cherished him sincerely for the inherent beauty of virtue that had set him apart since his youth.

Aquila rendered the term ‘garments ἀστραγάλειος’ as ‘garments that reach down to the heels,’ rather than using ‘coloured garments.’ Simmachus chose the translation ‘manikatu garment’ (derived from Latin: manus - ‘hand’), suggesting that the garment either extended to the heels with the hands of the wearer adorned in a splendid multicoloured design, or it featured sleeves. Indeed, throughout history, individuals frequently donned attire with short sleeves more commonly than is the case today.

This passage teaches us about the nature of parental love and the appreciation children should have for their parents. It is commendable to cherish children, and it is even better to extend that love further. Nevertheless, an excessive parental affection can prove detrimental to the children. For instance, an overabundance of indulgence can lead to a sense of complacency in the favored son, while prioritizing one child can alienate the others from each other. In contrast, the son who earns the affection of his siblings reaps greater rewards; it is a more honorable legacy from the parents and a richer heritage for the children. May a balanced love unite those who share the same nature. True love does not seek the advantages of material wealth in those who are overwhelmed by affection.

When devoted Christians attend church, what value is there in recounting the lives of the holy patriarchs, including their marriages and offspring, unless they grasp the deeper spiritual significance behind these occurrences and understand what they foreshadow? Consider the account of the venerable Jacob, who fathered a son named Joseph, whom he cherished above all his other children. In this narrative, Jacob represents God the Father, while the saintly Joseph symbolizes our Lord and Savior. Jacob's affection for his son mirrors the love of God the Father for His only begotten Son, as stated: This is my beloved Son. (Mt. 3:17.)

Joseph is depicted among his brothers as wearing a robe that reaches his heels, as stated in the Vulgate. This robe symbolizes a righteous deed fulfilled. This message was delivered on the fifth day of the Passover celebration to the congregation in the Church of St. John, named after Constantine.

Observing Joseph's remarkable wisdom, combined with purity and reverence for the Lord, Jacob cherished him even more and fashioned a richly adorned coat for him.

The insightful and compassionate Jacob was not misled by the intricately crafted deception. He continued to cherish Joseph and as a sign of his unique affection, he presented his son with a richly adorned robe. The brilliance and diversity of color have always held great significance in the nomadic cultures of the East. Could this robe not signify the diverse and challenging experiences that awaited the young man? The Spirit prompted the wise patriarch to convey prophecy through symbols rather than mere words: the brightly colored garment. This marks the beginning of Joseph's extraordinary journey.

The son of advanced years. In translations from Arabic and Chaldee, this son is characterized by wisdom and prudence. However, the Hebrew term likely refers to a son born to a father later in life. Ornate garments. In Eastern cultures, individuals held mottled robes in high regard (Judg. 5:30, 2 Sam. 13:18). The story of Joseph reveals parallels with the humiliation and glorification experienced by Jesus Christ, leading many to see Joseph's journey as a representation of these states. Joseph is the favored son of Jacob, cherished above all his siblings. Similarly, Jesus is the beloved Son of God, in whom the Father takes delight (Matthew 3:17).