Genesis 37:36 (KJV)

What does Genesis 37:36 mean?

Genesis 37:36 describes how the Midianites brought Joseph to Egypt and sold him to Potiphar, who was an important official serving Pharaoh and the captain of the guard. This verse marks the beginning of Joseph’s life in Egypt after being sold by his brothers.

In the story, Joseph’s brothers have just sold him to traders, and now those traders—called Midianites—sell Joseph again, this time to Potiphar in Egypt. Potiphar is introduced as a high-ranking officer under Pharaoh, setting the stage for Joseph’s new circumstances and the next major events in his life.

The Hebrew behind Genesis 37:36

• מִדְיָנִים (Midyanim, "Midianites"): This word refers to a group of traders or people from Midian. Their role as middlemen in Joseph’s story shows how he is moved further from his family and homeland.
• מָכַר (makhar, "sold"): This word means to sell, often in the sense of selling property or people. Here, it emphasizes Joseph’s loss of freedom and his transition into slavery.
• פּוֹטִיפַר (Potiphar): This is the Egyptian official’s name, and it identifies the specific person who becomes Joseph’s master.
• סָרִיס (saris, "officer"): Often understood as a court official or eunuch, this word highlights Potiphar’s trusted position in Pharaoh’s service.
• שַׂר הַטַּבָּחִים (sar hattabbakhim, "captain of the guard"): This phrase means the chief of the guards or the head of the royal bodyguard, showing Potiphar’s authority and the kind of household Joseph will serve in.

Why Genesis 37:36 matters

• Genesis 37:36 clarifies that Joseph’s journey into Egypt was not a direct sale by his brothers, but involved the Midianite traders as intermediaries, which adds detail to the unfolding story.
• The verse introduces Potiphar and his high status, which is important for understanding the opportunities and challenges Joseph will face in the chapters that follow.
• This verse connects the family drama of Joseph’s betrayal to the larger setting of Egypt, preparing the reader for the significant role Joseph will play in that nation’s history.