The answer is: 20

Gen 37:28

When Joseph was sold to the Ishmaelites for twenty shekels of silver, it was more than just a transaction; this moment set off a chain of events that not only impacted Joseph but also the entire lineage of Israel. To put Joseph's sale in context, twenty shekels is roughly equivalent to the price of a slave at that time, illustrating how deeply intertwined personal tragedy and societal norms were in the ancient world.

Fun fact: If you ever approach Judas's betrayal of Jesus in the New Testament, you’ll notice he was also sold for thirty pieces of silver. These figures across both testamentary texts highlight a disturbing trade of human life through monetary amounts, revealing common cultural practices around valuation and worth.

It’s fascinating to consider that later, in Egypt, Joseph would reinterpret this disheartening chapter as stepping stones toward greatness, emerging as a powerful figure after a series of traps laid before him. The resilience displayed throughout Joseph's life offers reassurance about the complexities of hardship—it can very well serve as a pathway to purpose.

Another echo in biblical themes is the aspect of forgiveness; when Joseph ultimately reconnects with his brothers, he embodies a grace that's transformative for both them and himself. The pattern of betrayal followed by reconciliation shines brightly in many narratives, reminding us of the deeper connections that run through human stories. Who knew that such a seemingly small price could lead to such monumental events in history?