Topical Encyclopedia Biblical References: The account of Potiphar's wife is primarily found in Genesis 39. She is an unnamed figure in the narrative of Joseph, the son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt. Historical Context: Potiphar was an officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the guard, and a high-ranking official in Egypt. As such, his household would have been one of considerable influence and wealth. Joseph, having been sold into slavery, was purchased by Potiphar and quickly rose to a position of trust within his household due to the LORD's favor upon him. Narrative Summary: Potiphar's wife is introduced in Genesis 39:7, where she is described as casting her eyes upon Joseph and attempting to seduce him. The Berean Standard Bible states: "And after some time, his master’s wife cast her eyes on Joseph and said, 'Sleep with me.'" Joseph, however, 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). Despite Joseph's repeated refusals, Potiphar's wife persisted in her attempts to seduce him. Eventually, she falsely accused Joseph of attempting to assault her when he fled from her presence, leaving his garment in her hand. This accusation led to Joseph's imprisonment, as recorded in Genesis 39:19-20: "When his master heard the account his wife told him, saying, 'This is what your slave did to 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." Character Analysis: Potiphar's wife is often viewed as a symbol of temptation and false accusation. Her actions are driven by lust and a desire to exert power over Joseph, a man of integrity and faithfulness. Her persistence in pursuing Joseph, despite his clear refusals, highlights her moral failings and lack of respect for her husband and the sanctity of marriage. Her false accusation against Joseph serves as a pivotal moment in his life, leading to his imprisonment but ultimately setting the stage for his rise to power in Egypt. This narrative underscores the themes of divine providence and the triumph of righteousness over falsehood. Theological Implications: From a theological perspective, the account of Potiphar's wife serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of yielding to temptation and the consequences of deceit. It also illustrates the importance of maintaining one's integrity and faithfulness to God, even in the face of false accusations and unjust suffering. Joseph's response to Potiphar's wife's advances is often cited as an example of moral fortitude and reliance on God's strength to resist sin. His unwavering commitment to righteousness, despite the personal cost, is a testament to his character and faith. Cultural and Literary Significance: In the broader cultural and literary context, Potiphar's wife has been depicted in various artistic and literary works as a figure of seduction and betrayal. Her account has been interpreted in different ways, often reflecting the societal attitudes towards women, power, and morality. The narrative of Potiphar's wife and Joseph is a compelling account of virtue tested by vice, and it continues to resonate as a powerful example of the complexities of human relationships and the enduring struggle between good and evil. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 39:7And 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 Library Joseph and Potiphar's Wife; of what Kind Love to Females Ought to ... Chapter xxxix Seventh Commandment The Story of Joseph and his Coat of Many Colors Two Epistles Concerning Virginity Palestine under Pagan Kings. Interpretation of Holy Scripture. --Inspired Interpretation. --The ... Providence The Book of Jubilees A Wise Desire Resources What does it mean to be a godly wife? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about being a Christian wife? | GotQuestions.org What can we learn from the account of Potiphar's wife? | GotQuestions.org Wife: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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