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Genesis 37:3
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
Genesis 37:3
New American Bible (Revised Edition)
3 Israel loved Joseph best of all his sons, for he was the child of his old age; and he had made him a long ornamented tunic.[a]
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- 37:3 Jacob’s favoring Joseph over his other sons is a cause of the brothers’ attempt on his life. Throughout the story, Jacob is unaware of the impact of his favoritism on his other sons (cf. vv. 33–35; 42:36). Long ornamented tunic: the meaning of the Hebrew phrase is unclear. In 2 Sm 13:18–19, it is the distinctive dress of unmarried royal daughters. The “coat of many colors” in the Septuagint became the traditional translation. Ancient depictions of Semites in formal dress show them with long, ornamented robes and that is the most likely meaning here. Possibly, the young Joseph is given a coat that symbolizes honor beyond his years. Later, Pharaoh will clothe Joseph in a robe that symbolizes honor (41:42).
New American Bible (Revised Edition) (NABRE)
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