MPV Commentary

1. Jacob lived in the land where his father had been a foreigner. This was likely at Mamre, in the valley of Hebron (compare Genesis 35:27), just as Abraham and Isaac had done before him (Hebrews 11:13).

2. The following events are significant milestones in Jacob's family history, as we will see in the narrative that follows.

Joseph was now seventeen years old and responsible for overseeing the flock, including the sons of Bilhah and Zilpah. This position might have been given to him because he was the son of a principal wife or due to his exceptional qualities of character. As chief shepherd, Joseph did not gossip or report scandalous behavior; instead, he acted as a faithful steward.

3. Benjamin, being younger, could be considered Jacob's child from old age and therefore might have been expected to be his favorite. In Hebrew, the phrase "son of old age" is equivalent to "a wise son," one who possessed insight and wisdom beyond his years.

Jacob made Benjamin a special coat with many colors, which was a distinctive garment in those early days (Judges 5:30; 2 Samuel 13:18). The love for colorful clothing still exists among the Arabs and other Eastern peoples, who often dress their children in elaborate attire. However, the technique of interweaving patterns has changed over time, making modern "coats of colors" different from those worn by Jacob's family.

4. Joseph's brothers could not speak peaceably to him (Genesis 43:23, etc.). It was customary to greet friends and acquaintances with a friendly expression, such as "peace be to you." The refusal to do so indicated their ill will towards Joseph. In families like Jacob's, where there are many children from different mothers, it is natural for parents to favor the youngest or those who excel in talents or amiability. However, Jacob showed great and criminal partiality.