Topical Bible: Integrity: Pharaoh, when he Learned That Sarah Was Abraham's Wife

◄ Integrity: Pharaoh, when he Learned That Sarah Was Abraham's Wife ►

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In the biblical narrative found in Genesis 12:10-20, the account of Pharaoh's interaction with Abram (later Abraham) and Sarai (later Sarah) provides a significant example of integrity, particularly in the context of ancient Near Eastern customs and divine intervention.

Context and Background

Abram, in response to a severe famine in Canaan, journeyed to Egypt with his wife Sarai. Aware of Sarai's beauty and fearing for his own life, Abram instructed her to claim she was his sister. This half-truth was rooted in their familial relationship, as Sarai was indeed Abram's half-sister (Genesis 20:12). However, the intent was to deceive and protect Abram from potential harm.

Pharaoh's Involvement

Upon their arrival in Egypt, Sarai's beauty was noted by the Egyptians, and she was taken into Pharaoh's palace. Pharaoh, believing Sarai to be Abram's sister, treated Abram well for her sake, bestowing upon him livestock and servants (Genesis 12:15-16). This act was in accordance with the customs of the time, where a woman's male guardian would receive gifts in exchange for her.

Divine Intervention and Revelation

The Lord intervened by inflicting serious diseases on Pharaoh and his household because of Sarai, Abram's wife (Genesis 12:17). This divine action revealed the truth to Pharaoh, who had been unaware of the deception. The integrity of Pharaoh is highlighted in his response to this revelation.

Pharaoh's Response

Upon learning the truth, Pharaoh summoned Abram and confronted him, asking, "What have you done to me? Why didn’t you tell me she was your wife? Why did you say, ‘She is my sister,’ so that I took her to be my wife?" (Genesis 12:18-19). Pharaoh's questions reflect a sense of moral outrage and a desire for transparency. Despite being deceived, Pharaoh acted with integrity by returning Sarai to Abram and ensuring their safe departure from Egypt. He commanded his men concerning Abram, and they sent him away with his wife and all he had (Genesis 12:20).

Analysis of Integrity

Pharaoh's actions demonstrate a commitment to integrity, even when he was unknowingly placed in a compromising situation. His immediate rectification of the situation upon learning the truth underscores a respect for marital boundaries and divine order. Pharaoh's integrity is further evidenced by his decision to allow Abram and Sarai to leave Egypt unharmed, despite the potential for retribution.

This account serves as a reminder of the importance of integrity in leadership and the recognition of divine authority. Pharaoh's response, though prompted by divine intervention, illustrates a willingness to correct wrongs and uphold moral principles, even when faced with deception.

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Genesis 12:18
And Pharaoh called Abram and said, What is this that you have done to me? why did you not tell me that she was your wife?
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Scenes in the Lives of the Patriarchs.
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