The answer is: 20

Gen 37:28

Joseph's journey into freedom—or more appropriately, his journey into suffering—began at a remarkably low price of just 20 shekels of silver. This transactional detail is quite intriguing and matters more than you might think. In ancient times, shekels were a common currency, and 20 shekels can be seen as a trivial amount for someone who was later regarded as a great leader in Egypt. Indeed, some reckon that the average value of a slave in that period could have ranged significantly higher!

This first situation draws bizarre echoes to how value is often determined—by personal or external perception rather than by intrinsic worth. Joseph's brothers sold him, blinded by jealousy. Yet, rather than being a leech to society, Joseph’s struggles ironically set the stage for the salvation of many during a desperate famine.

Interestingly, Jewish tradition sometimes sees Joseph’s sale as a tragic but pivotal point. It illustrates how a major part of his dream is set in motion—the one about his family bowing down to him. This narrative demonstrates fascinating themes of betrayal and redemption—quite rich when examined. Furthermore, looking into Joseph's later encounter with his brothers in Egypt emphasizes how forgiveness beats vengeance—a central motif that reappears throughout the text.

So, while 20 shekels of silver may seem small, it becomes a significant refrain in examining how one's worth can drastically change depending on circumstances and perspectives—a lesson that resonates through generations and stories!