Definition: And Israel said unto Joseph, Do not thy brethren feed [the flock] in Shechem? come, and I will send thee unto them. And he said to him, Here [am I].

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Genesis 37:13. It's a really important passage that deals with a tricky situation involving Jacob’s son Esau and the beginning of the story of the fall of humanity. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Situation: Jacob is worried: Jacob, a powerful man, is concerned about his son Esau. He wants to ensure Esau isn’t getting into trouble or being treated unfairly. Esau is feeding the flock: Esau is being allowed to tend to the sheep and goats in a place called Shechem. It's a bit of a strange situation, as Shechem was previously a place where people lived and worked – it had a history! Joseph asks Jacob: Joseph, Jacob’s firstborn son, asks Jacob if he can go and feed Esau. He wants to send him to see the sheep and goats. What Joseph Says - It's a bit cryptic: "Here, [am I]." – This is the crucial part. Joseph is saying he's here – in this specific location. He’s essentially saying, “I am here, and I need to see what’s happening.” The Significance & Interpretation (This is where it gets deeper): A Warning: This verse is often interpreted as a warning from God about the consequences of sin and disobedience. It suggests that Jacob’s actions are causing trouble and potentially leading to a negative outcome. The Fall Begins: The story of this verse sets up the beginning of the fall of humanity. Jacob, through his choices (or perhaps inaction), is setting in motion events that will lead to a world where humans are tempted by evil and fall from grace. Joseph’s Purpose: Joseph isn't just sending someone; he’s likely trying to understand what’s happening, possibly to protect Jacob or to prevent further problems. In short, this verse is a pivotal moment that introduces a potential crisis and foreshadows the challenges humanity will face in the future. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of Genesis 37:13? Talk about the context of this verse within the larger story of Jacob’s life? Discuss what some theologians think about its significance?