Genesis 37:5

Key Reflection

In first-century Israel, familial love was often expressed through gifts and special attention from parents, a practice that would have been particularly noticeable in the case of Joseph's brothers. The brothers perceived their father Jacob’s favoritism toward Joseph as an affront to their status as his sons. This jealousy and resulting hatred would have been seen by them not just as personal but as a matter of family honor, making it nearly impossible for them to interact with Joseph peacefully or kindly.