Reuben’s intervention provides the first step toward preserving Joseph’s life.
“But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, ‘Let us not take his life.’” (v.21) Reuben, the eldest son of Jacob, steps forward in defense of Joseph when his other brothers conspire against him. This dramatic moment takes place in the region of Dothan in the land of Canaan, a territory central to much of the early biblical narrative. Chronologically, this incident likely happened around 1898 BC, when Jacob’s family was settling in various areas of Canaan. Reuben’s intervention here reflects his responsibility as the firstborn son, seeking to avoid the guilt of spilling innocent blood and attempting to steer his siblings away from the sin of murder. By offering this counsel, Reuben reveals an early glimmer of conscience where justice and compassion begin to counteract jealousy.
“But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, ‘Let us not take his life.’” (v.21) conveys Reuben’s desire to protect Joseph, possibly driven by both family duty and a genuine moral concern. His stance contrasts with the anger and bitterness of his brothers, underscoring the dangerous power of envy. In a broader biblical context, this moment foreshadows God’s redemptive plan through Joseph’s eventual rise to power in Egypt (Genesis 41:41). Reuben’s actions align with scriptural teachings on protecting the innocent, a thread that continues throughout Scripture, culminating in the New Testament's emphasis on caring for one another in love (Galatians 6:2).
“But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, ‘Let us not take his life.’” (v.21) also reminds us that even in the midst of human schemes, God can work to preserve His chosen instruments. Although Reuben may have been motivated by private interests or a desire to regain favor with his father Jacob, his appeal carries theological significance. It highlights how any single act of compassion can align with God’s broader plan of salvation. The narratives surrounding Reuben and Joseph connect forward to the story of Jesus, who was ultimately rejected by those close to Him but used by God for the deliverance of many (John 1:11-12).
Set to dark mode
Genesis 37:21 meaning
“But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, ‘Let us not take his life.’” (v.21) Reuben, the eldest son of Jacob, steps forward in defense of Joseph when his other brothers conspire against him. This dramatic moment takes place in the region of Dothan in the land of Canaan, a territory central to much of the early biblical narrative. Chronologically, this incident likely happened around 1898 BC, when Jacob’s family was settling in various areas of Canaan. Reuben’s intervention here reflects his responsibility as the firstborn son, seeking to avoid the guilt of spilling innocent blood and attempting to steer his siblings away from the sin of murder. By offering this counsel, Reuben reveals an early glimmer of conscience where justice and compassion begin to counteract jealousy.
“But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, ‘Let us not take his life.’” (v.21) conveys Reuben’s desire to protect Joseph, possibly driven by both family duty and a genuine moral concern. His stance contrasts with the anger and bitterness of his brothers, underscoring the dangerous power of envy. In a broader biblical context, this moment foreshadows God’s redemptive plan through Joseph’s eventual rise to power in Egypt (Genesis 41:41). Reuben’s actions align with scriptural teachings on protecting the innocent, a thread that continues throughout Scripture, culminating in the New Testament's emphasis on caring for one another in love (Galatians 6:2).
“But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, ‘Let us not take his life.’” (v.21) also reminds us that even in the midst of human schemes, God can work to preserve His chosen instruments. Although Reuben may have been motivated by private interests or a desire to regain favor with his father Jacob, his appeal carries theological significance. It highlights how any single act of compassion can align with God’s broader plan of salvation. The narratives surrounding Reuben and Joseph connect forward to the story of Jesus, who was ultimately rejected by those close to Him but used by God for the deliverance of many (John 1:11-12).