Commentators highlight the brothers' self-deception. They agree to Reuben's plan to avoid physically shedding Joseph's blood, thinking it makes them less guilty. However, as John Calvin notes, leaving him to die slowly in a pit is just as murderous. This serves as a powerful warning against justifying sin by changing the method, as God judges the heart's intent. Reuben's suggestion was simply a desperate stratagem to save Joseph's life.