۞ In the story of Joseph and his brothers, there is evidence (of the truth) for those who seek to know. 7 "Surely Joseph and his brother are dearer to our father than we," (said his half brothers) "even though we are a well-knit band. Our father is surely in the wrong. 8 "Slay ye Joseph or cast him out to some (unknown) land, that so the favour of your father may be given to you alone: (there will be time enough) for you to be righteous after that!" 9 One of them said: 'No, do not kill Joseph, if you do anything, cast him into a dark pit, a traveler will pick him up' 10 They said, 'Father, what ails thee, that thou trustest us not with Joseph? Surely we are his sincere well-wishers. 11 Let him go out with us tomorrow that he may enjoy and play. We shall take care of him." 12 He said: "I am afraid of sending him with you lest a wolf should devour him when you are unmindful." 13 They said: "If the wolf were to devour him while we are (so large) a party, then should we indeed (first) have perished ourselves!" 14 So when they took him [out] and agreed to put him into the bottom of the well... But We inspired to him, "You will surely inform them [someday] about this affair of theirs while they do not perceive [your identity]." 15 And they came to their father in the evening, and they were weeping. 16 They said: "O our father! We went racing with one another, and left Joseph with our things; and the wolf devoured him.... But thou wilt never believe us even though we tell the truth." 17 And they brought his shirt (stained) with blood, a lie. He said: 'No, your souls have tempted you to do something. But come sweet patience! The help of Allah is always there to seek against that which you describe' 18 And there came a caravan of travellers and they sent their water-drawer to draw water from the well. He let down his bucket into the well and he exclaimed, "Oh, what a lucky find, here is a boy!" They hid him like a piece of merchandise, but God knew well what they did. 19 And they sold him for a low price, - for a few Dirhams (i.e. for a few silver coins). And they were of those who regarded him insignificant. 20