Genesis 37:3 Meaning and Explanation
“Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jacob shows open favoritism to Joseph, his late-born son, with a special coat.
The Context of Genesis 37:3
Jacob's open favoritism toward Joseph becomes the root of family conflict.
What Does Genesis 37:3 Mean?
Jacob (called Israel here, his covenant name) loves Joseph above all his other children. Joseph is the son of Jacob's beloved Rachel, born to Jacob in his later years—a precious gift. This love overflows into a concrete act: a coat of many colors, a sign of favor and privilege.
The coat is not merely clothing but a visible statement of Joseph's status. In that culture, such a garment would have announced Joseph's distinction to everyone, making his privileged position unmistakable.
Genesis 37:3 in the Original Language
k'tôneth passîm (כְּתֹנֶת פַּסִּים), 'coat of many colours' — a garment with many colored strips or patches, marking Joseph as exceptionally favored.
Frequently Asked Questions About Genesis 37:3
What does Genesis 37:3 mean?
Jacob shows open favoritism to Joseph, his late-born son, with a special coat.
What is the context of Genesis 37:3?
Jacob's open favoritism toward Joseph becomes the root of family conflict.