The answer is: Throw him in a pit and then sell him to strangers

Gen 37:22-24

The story of Joseph and his brothers is one of the most intriguing tales in the Book of Genesis. It’s like a dramatic plot twist where the family members who should be supporting him turn against him! These brothers were driven by jealousy, as Joseph, the favorite son of their father Jacob, received a fancy coat—often referred to as the “coat of many colors.” This coat became a symbol of his father’s preferential treatment, which did not sit well with his siblings.

Imagine the tension! When the brothers threw Joseph into the pit, it marked a significant shift in their lives—a moment of inhumanity fueled by envy. They contemplated leaving him, perhaps emboldened by a mixture of anger and rivalry. Thankfully, instead of leaving him to die, they chose to sell him to merchants traveling to Egypt. This decision didn’t just change Joseph’s fate; it marked the start of the an epic journey that would lead him from slavery to high authority within Egypt.

In Jewish tradition, this tale is often seen as a reminder of the conflict inherent in family dynamics and the insane lengths that jealousy can drive people to. There's a echoes of this story throughout many cultures—the plots often involve sibling rivalry, betrayal, and eventual reconciliation. Additionally, think about Joseph's later rise to power in Egypt—his ability to interpret dreams and save a nation from famine—emphasizing that sometimes, what seems like a terrible setback is actually part of a greater purpose. Isn’t that a fascinating twist on fate?