The answer is: Ishmaelites

Genesis 37:25,28 - Although Joseph ended up in Egpytian service, this is not who the brothers sold him to. He was sold to some passing Ishmaelites (also described as Midianite merchants) who then took Joseph to Egpyt and sold him to Potiphar.

When you dive into the story of Joseph and his brothers, it’s like peeling an onion—there are so many layered emotions and surprising twists! Imagine the scene: Joseph’s brothers, consumed by jealousy, decide to take drastic measures. They actually almost killed him before settling on the next best option—selling him.

Now, here’s where it gets extra intriguing! Joseph was sold to the Ishmaelites. These were descendants of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar. This detail weaves together a rich tapestry of biblical history and inter-family dynamics. So here’s a fun fact: the Ishmaelites were synonymous with trade, roaming between nations, which makes perfect sense for why they become intertwined with Joseph's story. They were like the ancient equivalent of modern-day traders, always on the move.

Interestingly, Joseph’s journey reinforces a palate of lessons on resilience and destiny. Defined by wrongful deceit at the hands of his brothers, he ends up in Egypt—where he later plays a crucial role in saving the very family that betrayed him.

While moving from the cistern to the caravan, Joseph’s life teaches us the complexities of human relationships. It's not just a straightforward story of betrayal; it's rich with ongoing themes of forgiveness, divine plans, and the unexpected twists life throws at us. If that doesn’t keep your interest piqued, what does? Don’t forget: every merchant and trader playing a role in this tale is part of a much larger narrative arc of family and faith!