The Conceptual Dynamics of Good and Evil in the Joseph Story: An Exegetical and Hermeneutical Inquiry

Abstract

This article examines the dynamics of good and evil as represented in the Joseph story (Gen. 37-50). It examines the story’s plot, the larger conceptual framework of the narrative’s Pentateuchal setting, as well as the semantic indicators and associated attitudes/behaviors qualified as good ([ILLEGIBLE]) and/or evil ([ILLEGIBLE]). The main objectives of this article are: (1) to identify the main issues within the story’s concept of the dynamics of good and evil; (2) to promote a more thorough consideration of the place of Joseph and God in those dynamics; and (3) to generate hermeneutical inquiries about the dynamics of good and evil using the insights gained from this examination—inquiries that are more relevant to contemporary discussion (e.g. understanding human atrocities, forgiveness, and reconciliation).