Definition: And he knew it, and said, [It is] my son’s coat; an evil beast hath devoured him; Joseph is without doubt rent in pieces.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this passage from Genesis 37:33. It's a really sad and important story about betrayal and loss. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Basic Story: Joseph is a young man. In the beginning of the book of Genesis, Joseph is a stable boy for his family. He’s tricked. A jealous man named Laban, Joseph’s older brother, finds out about Joseph and decides to trick him. He sets up a test for Joseph – he asks Joseph to go down into his cave and find a single goat. The Goat is replaced with a young boy. Laban doesn't actually give Joseph a goat. Instead, he replaces the goat with a baby boy named Benjamin. Laban’s Jealousy Escalates: Laban becomes incredibly angry and cruel. He wants to kill Joseph. Joseph Realizes What Happened. After a while, Joseph realizes what has happened – his friend Benjamin was replaced with a young boy. He is devastated. What Happens Next? He Mourns. Joseph is heartbroken and deeply saddened by the loss of his friend. He grieves for him intensely. He Announces His Son’s Death: Joseph tells his wife, Mary, that his son, Benjamin, has died. This is a devastating moment for him. What Does it Mean? “My son’s coat” : This is a really strange and symbolic phrase. It means the boy was Joseph's most precious and beloved child. “An evil beast hath devoured him” : This is a metaphor – it doesn't mean a literal beast attacked. It means that Laban, through his wicked actions, destroyed Joseph’s son. “Joseph is without doubt rent in pieces” : This is the most shocking part. It means Joseph was brutally murdered by Laban. The word "rent" suggests a tearing apart – like a piece of fabric being ripped open. Overall Significance: This verse highlights themes of betrayal, loss, and the consequences of jealousy. It’s a story about how difficult it is to lose someone you love, especially when someone who is close to you tries to cause harm. It also speaks to the importance of trusting God and finding strength in times of sorrow. Do you want me to: Explain any specific part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a larger biblical theme (like forgiveness, suffering, or loyalty)?