comprises the quick decision of the brothers as Joseph approaches. They must be unanimous in their murderous plot and in their plan to conceal the murder; they will throw the corpse into a cistern and allege a disaster. They thus intend to destroy the dreams and his dreams. This is a common motif. [37:21–22*] Reuben opposes the plot. He tries (conative imperf.) to rescue Joseph from their power. He urges his brothers; the language shows his excitement. He wants to persuade them not to kill Joseph