Joseph is born to Jacob in his old age, the first son of Rachel, the wife Jacob loved above all others. From the beginning, Joseph is set apart—by his father’s affection and by God’s early dealings with him. His dreams speak of authority and purpose, though neither he nor his father yet understands their cost. pJacob’s favoritism is unmistakable. The coat he gives Joseph is not merely clothing; it is a public declaration. In a family already strained by rivalry, it becomes a