Genesis 37:10
And he told it to his father, and to his brethren: and his father rebuked him, and said unto him, What is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth?
Genesis 37:10 · King James Version
Meaning
Joseph, the son of Jacob, shared a dream with his family where he saw them bowing down to him. This caused tension among his family members, especially his father Jacob, who rebuked him for his dream. Jacob questioned the meaning of the dream, wondering if he, Joseph's mother, and Joseph's brothers would truly bow down to him. The dream indicated a future where Joseph would be in a position of authority over his family, which many found difficult to accept. Jacob's response reveals his disbelief at the idea of bowing down to his son, indicating the potential jealousy and rivalry that existed within the family. This verse serves as a pivotal moment in the story of Joseph, foreshadowing the challenges he would face as well as the fulfillment of his dreams.
Theological Overview
In this verse, we see the story of Joseph sharing his dreams with his family, in particular, with his father Jacob. His father's response is one of rebuke, questioning the implications of the dream that Joseph had. The theological interpretation of this verse reveals a theme of divine sovereignty and the fulfillment of God's promises. Jacob's rebuke could be seen as a reflection of his doubts or fears about the future that Joseph's dream implied. Additionally, the concept of bowing down can be understood as a symbol of authority or dominion, indicating that Joseph would have a position of power over his family in the future. This verse emphasizes the idea of God's plan unfolding despite human doubts or questioning, ultimately showcasing the importance of faith and trust in God's ultimate purpose.
Genesis 37:10 in other translations
American Standard Version
And he told it to his father, and to his brethren; and his father rebuked him, and said unto him, What is this dream that thou hast dreamed? Shall I and thy mother and thy brethren indeed come to bow down ourselves to thee to the earth?
World English Bible
He told it to his father and to his brothers. His father rebuked him, and said to him, “What is this dream that you have dreamed? Will I and your mother and your brothers indeed come to bow ourselves down to you to the earth?”
Douay-Rheims
And when he had told this to his father, and brethren, his father rebuked him and said: What meaneth this dream that thou hast dreamed? shall I and thy mother, and thy brethren worship thee upon the earth?
Geneva Bible (1599)
Then he tolde it vnto his father and to his brethren, and his father rebuked him, and saide vnto him, What is this dreame, which thou hast dreamed? shall I, and thy mother, and thy brethren come in deede and fall on the ground before thee?