Genesis 37:28

Genesis 37:28 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

So when the Midianite traders passed by, his brothers pulled Joseph out of the pit and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.

King James Version KJV

Then there passed by Midianites merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmeelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt.

American Standard Version ASV

And there passed by Midianites, merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver. And they brought Joseph into Egypt.

Bible in Basic English BBE

And some traders from Midian went by; so pulling Joseph up out of the hole, they gave him to the Ishmaelites for twenty bits of silver, and they took him to Egypt.

Free Bible Version FBV

So when the Ishmaelites (who were traders from Midian) came by, they pulled Joseph out of the pit and sold him to them for twenty pieces of silver. The Ishmaelites took him to Egypt.

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

Then the Midianites marchant men passed by, and they drewe foorth, and lift Ioseph out of the pit, and solde Ioseph vnto the Ishmeelites for twentie pieces of siluer: who brought Ioseph into Egypt.

Young's Literal Translation YLT

And Midianite merchantmen pass by and they draw out and bring up Joseph out of the pit, and sell Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty silverlings, and they bring Joseph into Egypt.

World English Bible WEB

Midianites who were merchants passed by, and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver. The merchants brought Joseph into Egypt.

Noah Webster Bible WBS

Then there passed by Midianites, merchants; and they drew and lifted Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites for twenty pieces of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt.

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

And when the Madianite merchants passed by, they drew him out of the pit, and sold him to the Ismaelites, for twenty pieces of silver: and they led him into Egypt.

Translation for Translators T4T

When those traders from the Midian area came near, Joseph’s brothers pulled him up out of the pit/cistern. Then they sold him to the men from Midian for 20 pieces of silver. The traders then took Joseph to Egypt.

Plain English Version PEV

So when that Midian mob got near to them, Joseph’s brothers pulled Joseph out of that hole, and they sold him to the Midian mob for 20 pieces of silver money. Then the Midian mob took Joseph to Egypt country.

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Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 37:28

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Genesis 37:28 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB וַ/יַּֽעַבְרוּ֩ אֲנָשִׁ֨ים מִדְיָנִ֜ים סֹֽחֲרִ֗ים וַֽ/יִּמְשְׁכוּ֙ וַ/יַּֽעֲל֤וּ אֶת יוֹסֵף֙ מִן הַ/בּ֔וֹר וַ/יִּמְכְּר֧וּ אֶת יוֹסֵ֛ף לַ/יִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֖ים בְּ/עֶשְׂרִ֣ים כָּ֑סֶף וַ/יָּבִ֥יאוּ אֶת יוֹסֵ֖ף מִצְרָֽיְמָ/ה

וַ/יַּֽעַבְרוּ֩ ʻâbar H5674 to pass Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

אֲנָשִׁ֨ים ʼîysh H376 man N-mp

מִדְיָנִ֜ים Midyânîy H4084 Midianite Ngmpa

סֹֽחֲרִ֗ים çâchar H5503 to trade V-Qal

וַֽ/יִּמְשְׁכוּ֙ mâshak H4900 to draw Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

וַ/יַּֽעֲל֤וּ ʻâlâh H5927 to ascend Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

יוֹסֵף֙ Yôwçêph H3130 Joseph N-proper

מִן min H4480 from Prep

הַ/בּ֔וֹר bôwr H953 pit Art | N-ms

וַ/יִּמְכְּר֧וּ mâkar H4376 to sell Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

יוֹסֵ֛ף Yôwçêph H3130 Joseph N-proper

לַ/יִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֖ים Yishmâʻêʼlîy H3459 Ishmaelite Prep | Ngmpa

בְּ/עֶשְׂרִ֣ים ʻesrîym H6242 twenty Prep | Adj

כָּ֑סֶף keçeph H3701 silver N-ms

וַ/יָּבִ֥יאוּ bôwʼ H935 Lebo Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp

אֶת ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM

יוֹסֵ֖ף Yôwçêph H3130 Joseph N-proper

מִצְרָֽיְמָ/ה Mitsrayim H4714 Egypt N-proper | Suff

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 37:28

וַ/יַּֽעַבְרוּ֩ ʻâbar H5674 "to pass" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

This verb can mean to cross over or transition from one thing to another, and is sometimes used to describe being arrogant or crossing a boundary.

Definition: 1) to pass over or by or through, alienate, bring, carry, do away, take, take away, transgress 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to pass over, cross, cross over, pass over, march over, overflow, go over 1a2) to pass beyond 1a3) to pass through, traverse 1a3a) passers-through (participle) 1a3b) to pass through (the parts of victim in covenant) 1a4) to pass along, pass by, overtake and pass, sweep by 1a4a) passer-by (participle) 1a4b) to be past, be over 1a5) to pass on, go on, pass on before, go in advance of, pass along, travel, advance 1a6) to pass away 1a6a) to emigrate, leave (one's territory) 1a6b) to vanish 1a6c) to perish, cease to exist 1a6d) to become invalid, become obsolete (of law, decree) 1a6e) to be alienated, pass into other hands 1b) (Niphal) to be crossed 1c) (Piel) to impregnate, cause to cross 1d) (Hiphil) 1d1) to cause to pass over, cause to bring over, cause to cross over, make over to, dedicate, devote 1d2) to cause to pass through 1d3) to cause to pass by or beyond or under, let pass by 1d4) to cause to pass away, cause to take away 1e) (Hithpael) to pass over

Usage: Occurs in 493 OT verses. KJV: alienate, alter, [idiom] at all, beyond, bring (over, through), carry over, (over-) come (on, over), conduct (over), convey over, current, deliver, do away, enter, escape, fail, gender, get over, (make) go (away, beyond, by, forth, his way, in, on, over, through), have away (more), lay, meddle, overrun, make partition, (cause to, give, make to, over) pass(-age, along, away, beyond, by, -enger, on, out, over, through), (cause to, make) [phrase] proclaim(-amation), perish, provoke to anger, put away, rage, [phrase] raiser of taxes, remove, send over, set apart, [phrase] shave, cause to (make) sound, [idiom] speedily, [idiom] sweet smelling, take (away), (make to) transgress(-or), translate, turn away, (way-) faring man, be wrath. See also: Genesis 8:1; Deuteronomy 27:2; 1 Samuel 25:19.

אֲנָשִׁ֨ים ʼîysh H376 "man" N-mp

The Hebrew word for man, referring to a male person or individual, is used in the Bible to describe humans in contrast to God or animals, as seen in Genesis and Psalms. It can also mean husband or servant. In the KJV, it is translated as man or male.

Definition: : man 1) man 1a) man, male (in contrast to woman, female) 1b) husband 1c) human being, person (in contrast to God) 1d) servant 1e) mankind 1f) champion 1g) great man 2) whosoever 3) each (adjective)

Usage: Occurs in 1851 OT verses. KJV: also, another, any (man), a certain, [phrase] champion, consent, each, every (one), fellow, (foot-, husband-) man, (good-, great, mighty) man, he, high (degree), him (that is), husband, man(-kind), [phrase] none, one, people, person, [phrase] steward, what (man) soever, whoso(-ever), worthy. Compare H802 (אִשָּׁה). See also: Genesis 2:23; Genesis 42:25; Exodus 32:23.

מִדְיָנִ֜ים Midyânîy H4084 "Midianite" Ngmpa

A Midianite is someone from the tribe of Midian, which was known for its strife and conflict. In the book of Genesis, Moses married a Midianite woman, Zipporah. The Midianites are also mentioned in the book of Numbers.

Definition: Someone from Midian Group of mid.yan (מִדְיָן "Midian" H4080H) § Midianite, of Midian "strife" a member of the tribe of Midian 2) an inhabitant of the land of Midian

Usage: Occurs in 7 OT verses. KJV: Midianite. Compare H4092 (מְדָנִי). See also: Genesis 37:28; Numbers 25:14; Numbers 31:2.

סֹֽחֲרִ֗ים çâchar H5503 "to trade" V-Qal

This Hebrew word means to travel around, often for trade or business. It can also describe a person who goes around buying and selling goods. In the Bible, it is used to describe merchants or traders.

Definition: 1) to go around, go about, travel about in, go about in trade 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go about to and fro (in business) 1a2) trader, trafficker (participle) 1b) (Pilpel) to palpitate

Usage: Occurs in 20 OT verses. KJV: go about, merchant(-man), occupy with, pant, trade, traffick. See also: Genesis 23:16; Isaiah 23:2; Psalms 38:11.

וַֽ/יִּמְשְׁכוּ֙ mâshak H4900 "to draw" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

To draw can mean many things in the Bible, such as to pull or lead something, to sow seeds, or to make music. It is used in various contexts, including war, farming, and worship. The word is used in different forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) to draw, drag, seize 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to draw (and lift out), drag along, lead along, drag or lead off, draw down 1a2) to draw (the bow) 1a3) to proceed, march 1a4) to draw out or give (a sound) 1a5) to draw out, prolong, continue 1a6) to trail (seed in sowing) 1a7) to cheer, draw, attract, gratify 1b) (Niphal) to be drawn out 1c) (Pual) 1c1) to be drawn out, be postponed, be deferred 1c2) to be tall

Usage: Occurs in 36 OT verses. KJV: draw (along, out), continue, defer, extend, forbear, [idiom] give, handle, make (pro-, sound) long, [idiom] sow, scatter, stretch out. See also: Genesis 37:28; Psalms 85:6; Psalms 10:9.

וַ/יַּֽעֲל֤וּ ʻâlâh H5927 "to ascend" Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp

To ascend means to go up or rise, like the smoke from an altar going up to God, as described in many Bible passages, including Leviticus and Psalms.

Definition: : rise/go 1) to go up, ascend, climb 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to go up, ascend 1a2) to meet, visit, follow, depart, withdraw, retreat 1a3) to go up, come up (of animals) 1a4) to spring up, grow, shoot forth (of vegetation) 1a5) to go up, go up over, rise (of natural phenomenon) 1a6) to come up (before God) 1a7) to go up, go up over, extend (of boundary) 1a8) to excel, be superior to 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be taken up, be brought up, be taken away 1b2) to take oneself away 1b3) to be exalted 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to bring up, cause to ascend or climb, cause to go up 1c2) to bring up, bring against, take away 1c3) to bring up, draw up, train 1c4) to cause to ascend 1c5) to rouse, stir up (mentally) 1c6) to offer, bring up (of gifts) 1c7) to exalt 1c8) to cause to ascend, offer 1d) (Hophal) 1d1) to be carried away, be led up 1d2) to be taken up into, be inserted in 1d3) to be offered 1e) (Hithpael) to lift oneself

Usage: Occurs in 817 OT verses. KJV: arise (up), (cause to) ascend up, at once, break (the day) (up), bring (up), (cause to) burn, carry up, cast up, [phrase] shew, climb (up), (cause to, make to) come (up), cut off, dawn, depart, exalt, excel, fall, fetch up, get up, (make to) go (away, up); grow (over) increase, lay, leap, levy, lift (self) up, light, (make) up, [idiom] mention, mount up, offer, make to pay, [phrase] perfect, prefer, put (on), raise, recover, restore, (make to) rise (up), scale, set (up), shoot forth (up), (begin to) spring (up), stir up, take away (up), work. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 34:4; Joshua 7:6.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

יוֹסֵף֙ Yôwçêph H3130 "Joseph" N-proper

Joseph means Jehovah has added, a name given to several Israelites, including the son of Jacob and Rachel. Joseph was a significant figure in the book of Genesis and the story of his brothers. He became a leader in Egypt.

Definition: A man living at the time of Exile and Return, only mentioned at Neh.12.14 § Joseph = "Jehovah has added" 1) the eldest son of Jacob by Rachel 2) father of Igal, who represented the tribe of Issachar among the spies 3) a son of Asaph 4) a man who took a foreign wife in the time of Ezra 5) a priest of the family of Shebaniah in the time of Nehemiah

Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: Joseph. Compare H3084 (יְהוֹסֵף). See also: Genesis 30:24; Genesis 47:5; Psalms 77:16.

מִן min H4480 "from" Prep

This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.

Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)

Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.

הַ/בּ֔וֹר bôwr H953 "pit" Art | N-ms

This word refers to a cistern or pit, often used to hold water or as a prison. In the Bible, it is used to describe a place of confinement, like a dungeon or well. It is a physical hole in the ground.

Definition: pit, well, cistern, dungeon, pit of the grave

Usage: Occurs in 62 OT verses. KJV: cistern, dungeon, fountain, pit, well. See also: Genesis 37:20; Proverbs 5:15; Psalms 7:16.

וַ/יִּמְכְּר֧וּ mâkar H4376 "to sell" Conj | V-Qal-ConsecImperf-3mp

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means to sell something or someone, like a merchant selling goods or a father selling his daughter into marriage. It appears in books like Genesis and Exodus. The word can also mean to surrender or give something up.

Definition: 1) to sell 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to sell 1a2) seller (participle) 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be sold 1b2) to sell oneself 1b3) to be given over to death 1c) (Hithpael) to sell oneself

Usage: Occurs in 74 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] at all, sell (away, -er, self). See also: Genesis 25:31; Deuteronomy 32:30; Psalms 44:13.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

יוֹסֵ֛ף Yôwçêph H3130 "Joseph" N-proper

Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: Joseph. Compare H3084 (יְהוֹסֵף). See also: Genesis 30:24; Genesis 47:5; Psalms 77:16.

לַ/יִּשְׁמְעֵאלִ֖ים Yishmâʻêʼlîy H3459 "Ishmaelite" Prep | Ngmpa

An Ishmaelite is a descendant of Ishmael, Abraham's son with Hagar. Ishmaelites are first mentioned in Genesis 16 and are associated with the Arabian peoples.

Definition: Someone descended from Ishmael who was a man of Arabia living at the time of the Patriarchs, first mentioned at Gen.16.11; son of: Abraham (H0085) and Hagar (H1904); half-brother of: Isaac (H3327), Zimran (H2175), Jokshan (H3370), Medan (H4091), Midian (H4080), Ishbak (H3435) and Shuah (H7744); father of: Nebaioth (H5032), Kedar (H6938), Adbeel (H0110), Mibsam (H4017), Mishma (H4927), Dumah (H1746), Massa (H4854), Hadad (H2301), Tema (H8485), Jetur (H3195), Naphish (H5305), Kedemah (H6929) and Mahalath (H4258) Group of yish.ma.el (יִשְׁמָעֵאל "Ishmael" H3458) § Ishmaelite , of Ishmael "God will hear" a descendant of Ishmael

Usage: Occurs in 8 OT verses. KJV: Ishmaelite. See also: Genesis 37:25; Judges 8:24; Psalms 83:7.

בְּ/עֶשְׂרִ֣ים ʻesrîym H6242 "twenty" Prep | Adj

This word means twenty, and is also used as an ordinal number, like twentieth, as seen in Genesis 31:38. It can refer to a specific age or quantity.

Definition: twenty, twentieth Aramaic equivalent: es.rin (עֶשְׂרִין "twenty" H6243)

Usage: Occurs in 281 OT verses. KJV: (six-) score, twenty(-ieth). See also: Genesis 6:3; 1 Kings 9:14; Ezra 2:19.

כָּ֑סֶף keçeph H3701 "silver" N-ms

Silver or money, often referring to payment or wealth, like the silver talents in Matthew 25. It can also describe silver as a valuable metal or ornament.

Definition: : money/payment/silver 1) silver, money 1a) silver 1a1) as metal 1a2) as ornament 1a3) as colour 1b) money, shekels, talents

Usage: Occurs in 343 OT verses. KJV: money, price, silver(-ling). See also: Genesis 13:2; Numbers 22:18; 2 Chronicles 1:17.

וַ/יָּבִ֥יאוּ bôwʼ H935 "Lebo" Conj | V-Hiphil-ConsecImperf-3mp

This verb means to go or come, and is used in many contexts, such as entering a place or approaching someone, as seen in the book of Genesis. It can also mean to abide or apply, and is translated in various ways in the KJV Bible. This term is related to the name Lebo Hamath.

Definition: A shortened name of Lebo Hamath complined withcha.mat (חֲמָת "Hamath" H2574) This name means to go in, enter

Usage: Occurs in 2307 OT verses. KJV: abide, apply, attain, [idiom] be, befall, [phrase] besiege, bring (forth, in, into, to pass), call, carry, [idiom] certainly, (cause, let, thing for) to come (against, in, out, upon, to pass), depart, [idiom] doubtless again, [phrase] eat, [phrase] employ, (cause to) enter (in, into, -tering, -trance, -try), be fallen, fetch, [phrase] follow, get, give, go (down, in, to war), grant, [phrase] have, [idiom] indeed, (in-) vade, lead, lift (up), mention, pull in, put, resort, run (down), send, set, [idiom] (well) stricken (in age), [idiom] surely, take (in), way. See also: Genesis 2:19; Genesis 32:7; Exodus 1:19.

אֶת ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

יוֹסֵ֖ף Yôwçêph H3130 "Joseph" N-proper

Usage: Occurs in 193 OT verses. KJV: Joseph. Compare H3084 (יְהוֹסֵף). See also: Genesis 30:24; Genesis 47:5; Psalms 77:16.

מִצְרָֽיְמָ/ה Mitsrayim H4714 "Egypt" N-proper | Suff

This word means Egypt, a country in northeastern Africa, and is used in the Bible to describe the land and its people. It appears in books like Genesis and Isaiah, often referring to the Nile River and the Egyptians. Egypt is an important setting for many biblical events.

Definition: § Egypt = "land of the Copts" a country at the northeastern section of Africa, adjacent to Palestine, and through which the Nile flows Egyptians = "double straits" adj 2) the inhabitants or natives of Egypt

Usage: Occurs in 569 OT verses. KJV: Egypt, Egyptians, Mizraim. See also: Genesis 10:6; Exodus 6:13; Exodus 34:18.

Study Notes — Genesis 37:28

Show Verse Quote Highlights

Context
Cross References
Genesis 37:28 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 37:28
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 37:28
Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 37:28
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 37:28
Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 37:28
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 37:28
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 37:28
Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 37:28
Sermons on Genesis 37:28

Context — Joseph Sold into Egypt

26Then Judah said to his brothers, “What profit will we gain if we kill our brother and cover up his blood? 27Come, let us sell him to the Ishmaelites and not lay a hand on him; for he is our brother, our own flesh.” And they agreed.

28So when the Midianite traders passed by, his brothers pulled Joseph out of the pit and sold him for twenty shekels of silver to the Ishmaelites, who took him to Egypt.

29When Reuben returned to the pit and saw that Joseph was not there, he tore his clothes, 30returned to his brothers, and said, “The boy is gone! What am I going to do?”

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	Acts 7:9	Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him
2	Psalms 105:17	He sent a man before them— Joseph, sold as a slave.
3	Genesis 45:4–5	Then Joseph said to his brothers, “Please come near me.” And they did so. “I am Joseph, your brother,” he said, “the one you sold into Egypt! And now, do not be distressed or angry with yourselves that you sold me into this place, because it was to save lives that God sent me before you.
4	Genesis 25:2	and she bore him Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah.
5	Matthew 26:15	and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I hand Him over to you?” And they set out for him thirty pieces of silver.
6	Genesis 37:36	Meanwhile, the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard.
7	Genesis 37:25	And as they sat down to eat a meal, they looked up and saw a caravan of Ishmaelites coming from Gilead. Their camels were carrying spices, balm, and myrrh on their way down to Egypt.
8	Judges 6:1–3	Again the Israelites did evil in the sight of the LORD; so He delivered them into the hand of Midian for seven years, and the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel. Because of the Midianites, the Israelites prepared shelters for themselves in the mountains, caves, and strongholds. Whenever the Israelites would plant their crops, the Midianites, Amalekites, and other people of the east would come up and invade them,
9	Numbers 31:2–3	“Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites. After that, you will be gathered to your people.” So Moses told the people, “Arm some of your men for war, that they may go against the Midianites and execute the LORD’s vengeance on them.
10	Judges 8:22	Then the Israelites said to Gideon, “Rule over us—you and your son and grandson—for you have saved us from the hand of Midian.”

Genesis 37:28 Summary

This verse tells us that Joseph's brothers sold him to some traders for twenty pieces of silver, and they took him to Egypt. This was a very sad and difficult time for Joseph, but God was still with him and had a plan to use him in a great way (see also Jeremiah 29:11). Just like Joseph, we may face hard times or feel like we've been 'sold out' by others, but we can trust that God is always working for our good (see also Romans 8:28). We can learn from Joseph's example to trust God and look for ways to bring glory to Him, even in difficult situations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Joseph's brothers sell him to the Ishmaelites instead of killing him?

According to Genesis 37:27, Judah suggested selling Joseph to the Ishmaelites so they would not have to kill their own brother, showing a mix of greed and a desire to avoid bloodguilt (see also Genesis 9:6).

Who were the Midianite traders and the Ishmaelites in this verse?

The Midianite traders and the Ishmaelites were groups of people who were involved in trade and commerce, and it was common for them to travel through the region where Joseph's brothers were (see also Genesis 37:25-27).

How much were Joseph's brothers paid for selling him into slavery?

According to Genesis 37:28, Joseph's brothers were paid twenty shekels of silver for selling him to the Ishmaelites, a relatively small amount of money considering the value of a person (see also Exodus 21:32).

What was the ultimate destination of Joseph after he was sold by his brothers?

As stated in Genesis 37:28, Joseph was taken to Egypt by the Ishmaelites, where he would eventually rise to a position of great power and influence (see also Genesis 41:37-45).

Reflection Questions

What are some ways that I may be 'selling out' my brothers or sisters in Christ, and what can I do to change my behavior?
How can I trust God's sovereignty in difficult situations, like Joseph did when he was sold into slavery?
What are some ways that I can show kindness and compassion to those who may be 'in the pit' like Joseph was?
How can I use my experiences of betrayal or hardship to bring glory to God, just like Joseph did in Egypt?

Gill's Exposition on Genesis 37:28

Then there passed by Midianites, merchantmen,.... The same with the Ishmaelites before mentioned, as appears from the latter part of this verse; for as these were near neighbours, so they might join

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 37:28

And Judah said unto his brethren, What profit is it if we slay our brother, and conceal his blood? Judah said ... What profit?

Matthew Poole's Commentary on Genesis 37:28

This story seems a little involved, and the persons to whom he was sold doubtful. Here seem to be two, if not three, sorts of merchants mentioned, Ishmeelites and Midianites here, and Medanites, as it is in the Hebrew, , which were a distinct people from the Midianites, as descended from Medan, when the Midianites descended from Midian, both Abraham’ s sons, . The business may be accommodated divers ways; either, 1. The same persons or people are promiscuously called both Ishmeelites and Midianites, as they also are ,24,28; either because they were mixed together in their dwellings, and by marriages; or because they were here joined together, and made one caravan or company of merchants. And the text may be read thus, And the Midianite merchantmen (either the same who were called Ishmeelites, , or others being in the same company with them) passed by, and they (i.e. not the merchantmen, but Joseph’ s brethren, spoken of ; the relative being referred to the remoter antecedent, as it is frequently in the Scripture) lift up Joseph, and sold him to the Ishmeelites or Midianites, &c. Or, 2. The persons may be distinguished, and the story may very well be conceived thus: The Ishmeelites are going to Egypt, and are discerned at some distance by Joseph’ s brethren, while they were discoursing about their brother. In the time of their discourse, the Midianites, who seem to be coming from Egypt, coming by the pit, and hearing Joseph’ s cries there, pull him out of the pit, and sell him to the Ishmeelites, who carry him with them into Egypt. There they sell him to the Medanites, though that, as many other historical passages, be omitted in the sacred story. And the Medanites, or Midianites, if you please, only supposing them to be other persons than those mentioned , which is but a fair and reasonable supposition, sell him to Potiphar.

Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 37:28

Genesis 37:28 Then there passed by Midianites merchantmen; and they drew and lifted up Joseph out of the pit, and sold Joseph to the Ishmeelites for twenty [pieces] of silver: and they brought Joseph into Egypt.Ver. 28. For twenty pieces of silver.] A goodly price! not all out the price of a slave. Here "they sold the just one for silver, and the poor for a pair of shoes." The Hebrews tell us, that of these twenty shekels, every of the ten brethren had two, to buy shoes for their feet And they brought Joseph into Egypt.] Little knowing what a prize they had in their hand, even the jewel of the world, and him that should one day be lord of Egypt. The saints, for their worth, are called "princes in all lands"; kings in righteousness, though somewhat obscure ones, - as Melchisedec. They are called "God’ s portion"; "the dearly beloved of his soul"; "a royal diadem in the hands of Jehovah." This the cock on the dunghill, the Midianitish muckworms take no notice of. They could see no comeliness in Christ, though the fairest of ten thousand; nothing more than a despicable man. "How can this man give us his flesh to eat?." God had hid him ("in whom all the treasures of" worth and "wisdom were hid," Colossians 2:3) under the carpenter’ s son: this pearl was covered with a shellfish; so are all God’ s precious people, for most part, abjects in the world’ s eye; their glory is within; "their life is hid": they are great heirs, but as yet in their non-age; kings, but in a strange country; heads destinated to the diadem; but this "the world knows not." Let it suffice us that God, and all that can spiritually discern, know it; and so shall others: as Joseph’ s brethren did him, in his bravery. For "when Christ, our life, appear, we shall appear with him in glory." Pirke R. Eliez, cap. 38. "Many righteous," are "many kings." Compare Matthew 13:17 with Luke 10:24.

Ellicott's Commentary on Genesis 37:28

(28) Twenty pieces of silver.—Twenty shekels of silver were computed, in Leviticus 27:5, as the average worth of a male slave under twenty. It would be about £2 10s. of our money, but silver was of far greater value then than it is now.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 37:28

Verse 28. For twenty pieces of silver] In the Anglo-Saxon it is [Anglo-Saxon] thirty pence. This, I think, is the first instance on record of selling a man for a slave; but the practice certainly did not commence now, it had doubtless been in use long before. Instead of pieces, which our translators supply, the Persian has [Persian] miskal, which was probably intended to signify a shekel; and if shekels be intended, taking them at three shillings each, Joseph was sold for about three pounds sterling. I have known a whole cargo of slaves, amounting to eight hundred and thirteen, bought by a slave captain in Bonny river, in Africa, on an average, for six pounds each; and this payment was made in guns, gunpowder, and trinkets! As there were only nine of the brethren present, and they sold Joseph for twenty shekels, each had more than two shekels as his share in this most infamous transaction.

Cambridge Bible on Genesis 37:28

28. Midianites] The first part of this verse resumes E’s narrative from Genesis 37:25. According to E, “Midianites,” merchantmen, pass by, traders from the desert on the east of Jordan. The term is descriptive, and not genealogical: for Midian, like Ishmael, was a son of Abraham (Genesis 25:2). The suggestion that “Midianites” is a name representing the North Arabian Minaeans seems to ignore the Heb. character of the story. The name is without the definite article; it cannot, therefore, refer to “the Ishmaelites” of Genesis 37:27, whose description, though similar, is quite distinct. LXX οἱΜαδιηναῖοιἔμποροι. Lat. Madianitae negotiators. they drew and lifted up] According to E, the Midianites did this, and carried off Joseph, while his brothers were engaged in their meal. According to this account, Joseph was kidnapped, or, as he himself says (Genesis 40:15), “stolen away,” not sold. 28b. and sold] This is from J. Joseph’s brethren, by Judah’s advice, sell him to the Ishmaelites. This clause follows upon Genesis 37:27. twenty pieces of silver] i.e. shekels, as Genesis 20:16. In Leviticus 27:5; Leviticus 27:20 shekels is the price for a slave between the ages of 5 and 20. 30 shekels is the price for a slave in Exodus 21:32. On the value of a shekel, see Genesis 23:15.

Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 37:28

28. Sold Joseph… for twenty pieces of silver — “The future deliverer of Israel is sold as a slave.

Sermons on Genesis 37:28

	Sermon	Description
	Revival (Joseph) by Leonard Ravenhill	In this sermon, the preacher talks about the harsh treatment of slaves in the past, where they were chained and made to work as human horses. He emphasizes the importance of bringi
	(Genesis) Genesis 37:13-19 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher draws a comparison between the biblical story of Joseph and the Lord Jesus. He highlights the miraculous births of both Joseph and Jesus, as well as th
	(Genesis) Genesis 37:4-6 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joseph from the Bible. He explains that Joseph, at the age of 17, was a rather gullible and naive boy who had been sheltered by
	Genesis #21 Ch. 35-37 Joseph, the Dreamer by Chuck Missler	In this sermon, Chuck Missler discusses Genesis chapters 35 through 37. He begins by praying for understanding and guidance from the Holy Spirit. He then highlights the importance
	(Genesis) Genesis 40 Introduction by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the parallels between the life of Joseph and the life of Jesus. He highlights how Joseph was sent to his brethren, just as Jesus was sent to
	Joseph Reminds Me of Jesus-02 by William MacDonald	In this sermon, the preacher addresses the question of whether children in the audience are truly listening. He engages with a young boy named David and asks him about the title of
	Judah's Plea by Chuck Smith	In this sermon, Pastor Chuck Smith takes us through the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. He emphasizes the importance of confessing our sins and not allowing unconfessed sin