Topical Bible: False Accusation: Incidents Illustrative of Against Joseph by Potiphar's Wife

Bible > Topical > False Accusation

◄ False Accusation: Incidents Illustrative of Against Joseph by Potiphar's Wife ►

Topical Encyclopedia

Biblical Context:
The account of Joseph and Potiphar's wife is a poignant example of false accusation found in the Book of Genesis. Joseph, a Hebrew young man, was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and ended up in Egypt, where he was purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. Joseph quickly gained favor in Potiphar's household due to his diligence and the Lord's blessing upon him.

Scriptural Account:
The narrative unfolds in Genesis 39. Joseph, described as "handsome in form and appearance" (Genesis 39:6), caught the eye of Potiphar's wife. She repeatedly attempted to seduce him, saying, "Lie with me" (Genesis 39:7). Joseph, however, steadfastly refused her advances, citing his loyalty to Potiphar and his fear of sinning against God: "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9).

The False Accusation:
Despite Joseph's refusal, Potiphar's wife persisted. One day, when Joseph entered the house to attend to his duties, she seized the opportunity to grab him by his garment, demanding once more that he lie with her. Joseph fled, leaving his garment in her hand. In retaliation for his rejection, Potiphar's wife concocted a false accusation against him. She called the men of her household and claimed, "Look, he brought us a Hebrew to make sport of us! He came in here to lie with me, but I screamed" (Genesis 39:14). She further accused Joseph before her husband, saying, "The Hebrew slave you brought us came to me to make sport of me" (Genesis 39:17).

Consequences:
Potiphar, upon hearing his wife's fabricated account, became enraged and had Joseph imprisoned. "When his master heard the account his wife told him, saying, 'This is how your slave treated me,' he burned with anger. So Joseph's master took him and put him in the prison, the place where the king's prisoners were confined" (Genesis 39:19-20). Despite the grave injustice, the Lord remained with Joseph, granting him favor even in prison.

Theological Implications:
This incident highlights several key themes within the biblical narrative. It underscores the virtue of integrity and the importance of resisting temptation, even in the face of severe consequences. Joseph's unwavering commitment to righteousness, despite the false accusations, serves as a model of faithfulness to God. The account also illustrates the reality of suffering and injustice in a fallen world, yet it reassures believers of God's sovereign presence and ultimate justice. Joseph's experience foreshadows the suffering of Christ, who was also falsely accused and unjustly punished, yet remained faithful to His divine mission.

Moral and Ethical Lessons:
From a moral and ethical standpoint, the account of Joseph and Potiphar's wife serves as a cautionary tale against the destructive power of false accusations. It warns of the potential harm caused by deceit and the importance of truthfulness. The narrative encourages believers to trust in God's providence and justice, even when facing falsehood and adversity.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 39:7-20
And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes on Joseph; and she said, Lie with me.
Nave's Topical Index