Genesis 37:5-10
Summary for Gen 37:5-11: 37:5-11 a God confirmed his choice of this faithful son as the eventual leader of the whole family through two symbolic dreams. This is the first of three dream sequences in chs 37–50 b (see 40:1–41:36 c; cp. 15:13 d; 20:3 e; 28:12-15 f; 31:24 g). Dreams carried weight as a form of divine communication, especially if the dream revelation was given twice.37:7 h The bundles of grain hint at how Joseph’s authority over his family would be achieved (see 42:1-3 i).
37:8 j The brothers’ angry response to the revelation, in contrast to Joseph’s honesty and faithfulness, clearly demonstrates why they were not chosen for leadership: Leaders in God’s plan cannot be consumed with jealousy and hatred. In their anger, they missed an important part of the revelation—they too would be rulers (stars, 37:9 k) who would productively bind their sheaves (37:7 l).
37:9 m The sun, moon, and eleven stars: Astrological symbols often represent rulers. The dream predicted Joseph’s elevation to a position of authority over the whole clan of Israel.
37:10 n your mother and I: Joseph’s birth mother, Rachel, was dead (35:19 o). Leah was now the matriarch of the clan.
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