KJV ORIGINAL
And Reuben returned unto the pit; and, behold, Joseph was not in the pit; and he rent his clothes.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE
When Reuben came back to the pit, he saw that Joseph was no longer there, and he tore his clothes in distress.
⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE
This verse shows Reuben's shock and grief when he discovered that his brother Joseph had disappeared from the pit where they had thrown him.
📚 Historical Context
Reuben was the eldest of Jacob's sons and felt responsible for his younger brother Joseph's safety. In ancient Middle Eastern culture, tearing one's clothes was a common way to express deep grief, shock, or distress. Reuben had planned to secretly rescue Joseph from the pit, but while he was away, his other brothers had sold Joseph to passing merchants.
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.
Share or Save