Topical Encyclopedia The imprisonment of Joseph is a significant event in the biblical narrative, illustrating themes of divine providence, integrity, and redemption. This episode is primarily recounted in the Book of Genesis, chapters 39 to 41.Background Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob and the firstborn of Rachel, was favored by his father, which incited jealousy among his brothers. This jealousy culminated in Joseph being sold into slavery and taken to Egypt, where he was purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard (Genesis 37:28, 36). Potiphar's House In Potiphar's house, Joseph found favor due to his diligence and the LORD's blessing upon him. Genesis 39:2-4 states, "The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, serving in the household of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the LORD was with him and made him prosper in all he did, Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal attendant." False Accusation and Imprisonment Joseph's integrity was tested when Potiphar's wife attempted to seduce him. Joseph refused her advances, declaring, "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9). Despite his refusal, Potiphar's wife falsely accused Joseph of attempting to assault her. As a result, Potiphar, in anger, had Joseph imprisoned (Genesis 39:19-20). Life in Prison Even in prison, the LORD's presence with Joseph was evident. Genesis 39:21-23 records, "But the LORD was with Joseph and extended kindness to him, granting him favor in the eyes of the prison warden. The warden put all the prisoners under Joseph’s care, and he was responsible for all that was done there. The warden did not concern himself with anything under Joseph’s care, because the LORD was with Joseph and gave him success in whatever he did." Interpretation of Dreams While in prison, Joseph encountered Pharaoh's cupbearer and baker, both of whom were troubled by dreams. Joseph, acknowledging God as the source of interpretation, accurately interpreted their dreams: the cupbearer would be restored to his position, while the baker would be executed (Genesis 40:8-22). Joseph requested the cupbearer to remember him and mention him to Pharaoh, but the cupbearer forgot Joseph after his restoration (Genesis 40:14, 23). Divine Timing and Release Two years later, Pharaoh himself had troubling dreams that none could interpret. It was then that the cupbearer remembered Joseph, leading to his release from prison to interpret Pharaoh's dreams (Genesis 41:1, 9-14). Joseph, attributing the interpretation to God, revealed that Pharaoh's dreams foretold seven years of abundance followed by seven years of famine (Genesis 41:16, 25-30). Elevation to Power Impressed by Joseph's wisdom and discernment, Pharaoh appointed him as second-in-command over Egypt, entrusting him with the task of preparing for the impending famine (Genesis 41:39-41). Joseph's rise from prisoner to a position of great authority underscores the biblical theme of God's sovereignty and faithfulness in fulfilling His purposes. The imprisonment of Joseph serves as a testament to his unwavering faith and integrity, even in the face of false accusations and adversity. It highlights the belief in God's providential care and the ultimate vindication of the righteous. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 39:20And Joseph's master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king's prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison. Nave's Topical Index Library Goodness in a Dungeon God's Promises Tests Chapter xxxix A Cloud of Witnesses. The Harmony of the Gospels. Chapter xl Introduction The Society of Friends, or Quakers. Chapter xlii A Continuation of Mr. Bunyan's Life, Beginning Where He Left Off ... Resources Summary of the Book of Philippians - Bible Survey | GotQuestions.orgWho was Demas in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Who was Tychicus in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org Imprisonment: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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