Joseph's Cistern

Joseph is shown falling into a rocky cistern while his brothers stand around the pit in the open countryside. The young son of Jacob reaches upward in alarm, his distinctive garment stripped away as the older men carry out their jealous plan against him. The surrounding figures, dressed as shepherds and travelers, frame the mouth of the pit and reveal the betrayal that begins Joseph’s long road from rejection to providence. In Genesis 37, Joseph’s brothers seize him, remove his coat, and cast him into an empty cistern before selling him into Egypt. The scene highlights the sin of envy and the hidden sovereignty of God, who later uses Joseph’s suffering to preserve many lives. This artwork is well suited for teaching on Joseph, family conflict, forgiveness, providence, and children’s Bible lessons.