Joseph, favored by his father Jacob, receives a distinctive multicolored coat. His gift for interpreting prophetic dreams sparks intense jealousy among his brothers, especially when his visions imply future dominance over them. This resentment drives his brothers to conspire against him; they abandon a murder plot, instead selling Joseph into slavery bound for Egypt.

Serving Potiphar, an Egyptian official, Joseph later faces imprisonment due to false accusations from Potiphar's wife. While jailed, his skill in interpreting prisoners' dreams gains him notice. Pharaoh summons Joseph to decipher troubling dreams of coming famine. Joseph predicts seven years of plenty followed by seven years of severe famine and advises stockpiling grain. Pharaoh, deeply impressed, elevates Joseph to a high administrative post to manage the crisis preparations.

Years later, during the famine, Joseph's brothers journey to Egypt seeking aid, unaware he governs the food supply. Joseph recognizes them but conceals his identity. He subjects them to tests, accusing them of spying and demanding they return with their youngest brother, Benjamin. When the brothers comply, Joseph witnesses their changed character, particularly Judah's offer to sacrifice himself for Benjamin. Moved by their transformation, Joseph reveals himself. He forgives his brothers, reconciles with them, and arranges for Jacob and the entire family to resettle in Egypt for survival. His crucial leadership through the famine secures the future of his people.

An adaptation portrays Judah as actively encouraging the betrayal and expressing satisfaction at Joseph's sale, differing from narratives where he intervenes to spare Joseph. This emphasizes the brothers' collective animosity before their eventual redemption.