Topical Bible: Rulers: Wicked: Potiphar, Putting Joseph Into Prison

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Potiphar, an Egyptian officer and captain of the guard under Pharaoh, is a significant figure in the narrative of Joseph, as recorded in the Book of Genesis. His actions, particularly in relation to Joseph, are often examined in the context of wickedness and injustice.

Background and Context

Potiphar is introduced in Genesis 37:36, where he is described as the Egyptian official who purchased Joseph from the Ishmaelites. Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, had been sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. Potiphar's position as a high-ranking officer in Pharaoh's court indicates his influence and authority within the Egyptian hierarchy.

Joseph's Service in Potiphar's House

Upon entering Potiphar's household, Joseph quickly gained favor due to his diligence and the evident blessing of God upon his work. 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. Potiphar put him in charge of his household and entrusted him with everything he owned."

The False Accusation

Despite Joseph's integrity and success, he faced a grave injustice due to the false accusations of Potiphar's wife. She attempted to seduce Joseph, but he steadfastly refused, saying in Genesis 39:9 , "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" Spurned and angered by his rejection, Potiphar's wife falsely accused Joseph of attempting to assault her.

Potiphar's Response

Potiphar's reaction to his wife's accusation is a pivotal moment that highlights his role as a ruler who acted wickedly. Without seeking the truth or considering Joseph's proven character, Potiphar chose to believe his wife's deceitful claims. Genesis 39:19-20 records, "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 into the prison where the king’s prisoners were confined."

Analysis of Potiphar's Actions

Potiphar's decision to imprison Joseph reflects a failure to exercise justice and discernment. As a ruler, he had the responsibility to investigate the matter thoroughly, yet he acted impulsively, driven by anger and possibly a desire to maintain domestic peace. His actions resulted in the unjust suffering of an innocent man, highlighting the potential for wickedness in those who wield power without accountability or moral integrity.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Potiphar's actions serve as a reminder of the fallen nature of humanity and the prevalence of injustice in a world marred by sin. Despite the wickedness of rulers like Potiphar, the narrative of Joseph demonstrates God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Even in the face of false accusations and wrongful imprisonment, God's providential plan for Joseph's life ultimately prevailed, as seen in the subsequent chapters of Genesis.

Conclusion

Potiphar's role in the account of Joseph is a cautionary tale about the misuse of authority and the consequences of failing to uphold justice. His actions, driven by anger and a lack of discernment, resulted in the wrongful imprisonment of a righteous man, underscoring the potential for wickedness in human rulers.

Nave's Topical Index

Genesis 39:20
And 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.
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Genesis 40:15
For indeed I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon.
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Library

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