Genesis 37:18-3

(JE). Joseph is sold into Egypt

The composite character of the narrative becomes at this point very evident. J (Genesis 37:21; Genesis 37:25b, Genesis 37:31) relates that Judahrestrains his brethren from murder, and persuades them to sell Joseph to passing Ishmaelites, who sell him as a slave to an Egyptian noble. E (Genesis 37:22 (bread), 28a (pit), 28c 30, 36) relates that Reubeninterposes, and saves Joseph from his brethren: by his advice Joseph is cast into a tank, where he is found by passing Midianite merchants, who draw him out, take him to Egypt, and sell him to Potiphar, "captain of the guard." Reuben returning to the tank, after the interval for food, finds it empty.