The answer is: 20

Gen 37:28

Joseph’s journey into Egypt began in a rather dramatic way, and it all hinged on the price of twenty shekels of silver. Now, you may wonder—what's the significance of this amount? In ancient Near Eastern culture, twenty shekels was not a colossal sum. It was essentially the price of a slave or a servant. Isn’t it ironic that Joseph, who would ultimately rise to power and save many lives, was sold off for such a modest price? The transaction shows the undervaluation of Joseph's potential at that time.

This incident spotlights the complexities of family dynamics in the biblical narrative. His brothers’ act of betrayal directly led to a significant turn in history. The Ishmaelites, descendants of Abraham through Hagar, link two major biblical figures—Joseph and the later lineage of the Israelites—showcasing how interconnected their stories are.

Fun fact: the shekel is still in use today as currency in Israel. Studying these events allows us to understand that the seeds of discord and cooperation often result in broader, historical impacts. Additionally, Joseph’s story is echoed in the parables of betrayal and redemption found throughout many texts. For instance, the dynamics of being sold, and later separated from those we know, remind us of the trials faced by many through continued strife and the road to forgiveness. Joseph's tale is not merely one about suffering; it's also about ultimate reconciliation and purpose, reflecting timeless themes in human experience.