Vayeishev 5780

Question: Why do the brothers send the bloodied כתונת פסים ahead of them? Why not bring it home themselves?

Approach: Seemingly, the brothers wanted to try to deflect any possible blame from themselves, and therefore acted to cover up their actions. Using animal blood helped create the illusion of an animal attack. Sending the קטונת פסים ahead gave the impression that they were clearly concerned for their brother, as well as allowing יעקב time to digest the facts presented and start mourning before the brothers came home; thereby allowing for any possible suspicion to be allayed.

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