Genesis 39:16

So Potiphar's wife kept Joseph's cloak beside her until his master came home.

Study Bible

So she kept
The phrase "so she kept" indicates an intentional and deliberate action by Potiphar's wife. The Hebrew root for "kept" is "נָתַן" (natan), which means to give, put, or set. This suggests that she purposefully retained the cloak as evidence to support her false accusation against Joseph. In a broader scriptural context, this act of keeping the cloak symbolizes the deceit and manipulation that can arise from unchecked desires and falsehoods. It serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity and truthfulness, even when faced with temptation or adversity.

his cloak
The "cloak" in this context is a significant piece of evidence. In Hebrew, the word used is "בֶּגֶד" (beged), which can mean garment or clothing. This cloak, left behind by Joseph as he fled from Potiphar's wife, becomes a pivotal piece in the narrative. Historically, garments often symbolized identity and status. Joseph's cloak, therefore, represents his integrity and the unjust circumstances he finds himself in. The cloak, once a symbol of his favored status with his father, now becomes a tool of deception. This highlights the theme of how external circumstances can be manipulated, but true character is revealed through one's actions.

beside her
The phrase "beside her" indicates proximity and possession. In the Hebrew text, the word "אֵצֶל" (etzel) is used, which means near or beside. This positioning of the cloak beside her suggests her readiness to use it as false evidence against Joseph. It underscores the premeditated nature of her accusation. From a spiritual perspective, this act of keeping the cloak close serves as a metaphor for how sin and deceit can be kept close to one's heart, ready to be used to harm others. It is a call for believers to guard their hearts and actions against such deceit.

until his master came home
This phrase sets the stage for the impending confrontation. The Hebrew word for "master" is "אָדוֹן" (adon), which denotes lord or master, reflecting Potiphar's authority over Joseph. The phrase "came home" indicates a return to a place of authority and decision-making. Historically, the return of the master signifies a moment of judgment and decision. In the broader biblical narrative, this moment foreshadows the trials and tribulations that Joseph will face, yet it also sets the stage for God's providential plan to unfold. It serves as a reminder that while human judgment can be flawed, divine justice prevails in the end. This encourages believers to trust in God's ultimate plan and justice, even when faced with false accusations or trials.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew slave in Egypt, known for his integrity and faithfulness to God. He was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in the house of Potiphar, an Egyptian official.

2. Potiphar's Wife
The unnamed wife of Potiphar, who attempted to seduce Joseph. When he refused her advances, she falsely accused him of trying to assault her.

3. Potiphar
An Egyptian officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. He was Joseph's master and trusted him with the management of his household.

4. Egypt
The setting of this account, where Joseph was taken as a slave and where he rose to prominence despite the false accusations against him.

5. The Cloak
A garment belonging to Joseph, which Potiphar's wife used as false evidence to accuse him of wrongdoing.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Adversity
Joseph's refusal to sin with Potiphar's wife demonstrates the importance of maintaining integrity, even when faced with temptation and false accusations.

The Power of False Accusations
Potiphar's wife's actions remind us of the destructive power of lies and the importance of seeking truth and justice.

God's Sovereignty
Despite the immediate negative consequences of the false accusation, God used these events to position Joseph for a greater purpose, illustrating His sovereignty and providence.

Faithfulness in Service
Joseph's commitment to serving faithfully, regardless of his circumstances, is a model for believers to serve God and others wholeheartedly.

Trusting God's Timing
Joseph's account encourages believers to trust in God's timing and plan, even when circumstances seem unjust or difficult.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to Potiphar's wife's advances demonstrate his commitment to God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing temptation?

2. In what ways does the account of Joseph and Potiphar's wife illustrate the consequences of false accusations, and how can we seek to uphold truth and justice in our communities?

3. How does Joseph's experience in Egypt reflect the theme of God's sovereignty and providence, and how can this encourage us in our own trials?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's faithfulness in service, and how can we apply these principles in our work and relationships today?

5. How does the broader account of Joseph's life encourage us to trust in God's timing and plan, even when we face unjust situations or delays in our own lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
Joseph's earlier life, including his dreams and the betrayal by his brothers, sets the stage for his time in Egypt.

Genesis 41
Joseph's rise to power in Egypt, showing God's providence and faithfulness despite the trials he faced.

Proverbs 6:32-33
Discusses the consequences of adultery and false accusations, which relate to the actions of Potiphar's wife.

1 Peter 2:19-20
Encourages believers to endure suffering for doing good, as Joseph did when he was falsely accused.