Jump to: Hitchcock's • Smith's • ATS • ISBE • Easton's • Concordance • Thesaurus • Hebrew • Library • Subtopics • Terms Topical Encyclopedia Introduction: Potiphar is a significant figure in the biblical narrative of Joseph, found in the Book of Genesis. He is an Egyptian officer who plays a crucial role in the unfolding of God's plan for Joseph and the nation of Israel. Potiphar's interactions with Joseph provide insights into themes of integrity, temptation, and divine providence. Biblical Account: Potiphar is introduced in Genesis 37:36, where he is described as "an officer of Pharaoh, the captain of the guard, an Egyptian." This position indicates that Potiphar held a high rank in the Egyptian hierarchy, likely responsible for the security of Pharaoh and his household. His wealth and status are further implied by his ability to purchase Joseph, a Hebrew slave, from the Ishmaelites. In Genesis 39:1-6, the narrative details Joseph's rise to prominence within Potiphar's household. The Berean Standard Bible states, "Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt, where an Egyptian named Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there. The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, serving in the household of his Egyptian master." Potiphar recognized Joseph's capabilities and entrusted him with the management of his entire household, demonstrating Joseph's integrity and the favor of God upon him. Potiphar's Wife and Joseph's Imprisonment: The narrative takes a dramatic turn with the introduction of Potiphar's wife, who becomes infatuated with Joseph. Despite her persistent attempts to seduce him, Joseph remains steadfast in his commitment to righteousness, famously declaring in Genesis 39:9 , "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" Joseph's refusal to succumb to temptation highlights his moral integrity and fear of God. Potiphar's wife, scorned by Joseph's rejection, falsely accuses him of attempting to assault her. In Genesis 39:19-20 , Potiphar's reaction is recorded: "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." Potiphar's decision to imprison Joseph, rather than execute him, may suggest a degree of doubt regarding his wife's accusations or a recognition of Joseph's character. Theological Significance: Potiphar's role in the Joseph narrative underscores the sovereignty of God in the lives of His people. Despite the false accusations and subsequent imprisonment, Joseph's time in Potiphar's house was a preparatory phase for his future leadership in Egypt. The account of Potiphar and his wife serves as a testament to the importance of maintaining integrity and faithfulness to God, even in the face of adversity and falsehood. Historical and Cultural Context: As an Egyptian officer, Potiphar's position as "captain of the guard" suggests he was part of the elite class, responsible for the protection and security of Pharaoh. This role would have required loyalty, discipline, and a keen sense of justice, qualities that are indirectly highlighted in his interactions with Joseph. The cultural setting of ancient Egypt, with its complex social hierarchy and legal system, provides a backdrop for understanding the dynamics between Potiphar, his wife, and Joseph. Conclusion: While Potiphar himself is not the central figure in the biblical narrative, his interactions with Joseph are pivotal in the unfolding of God's redemptive plan. Through Potiphar's household, Joseph's character is tested and refined, setting the stage for his eventual rise to power in Egypt and the preservation of the Israelite people. Hitchcock's Bible Names Dictionary PotipharSmith's Bible Dictionary Potipharan Egyptian name, also written Potipherah, signifies belonging to the sun . Potiphar. with whom the history of Joseph is connected is described as an officer of Pharaoh chief of the executioners, an Egyptian." (Genesis 39:1) comp. Genesis37:36 (B.C. 1728.) He appears to have been a wealthy man. (Genesis 39:4-6) The view we have of Potiphar's household is exactly in accordance with the representations on the monuments. When Joseph was accused, his master contented himself with casting him into prison. (Genesis 39:19,20) After this we hear no more of Potiphar. [JOSEPH] ATS Bible Dictionary PotipharA high officer of Pharaoh, who purchased Joseph of the Midianites, and made him master of his house, but afterwards imprisoned him on a false charge. He is supposed by some to have been the same "captain of the guard" who promoted Joseph in prison, Genesis 37:36; 39:23. Easton's Bible Dictionary Dedicated to Ra; i.e., to the sun-god, the Egyptian to whom the Ishmaelites sold Joseph (Genesis 39:1). He was "captain of the guard", i.e., chief, probably, of the state police, who, while they formed part of the Egyptian army, were also largely employed in civil duties (37:36; marg., "chief of the executioners"). Joseph, though a foreigner, gradually gained his confidence, and became overseer over all his possessions. Believing the false accusation which his profligate wife brought against Joseph, Potiphar cast him into prison, where he remained for some years. (see JOSEPH.) International Standard Bible Encyclopedia POTIPHARpot'-i-far (poTiphar; compare Egyptian Potiphera (Genesis 39:1 f)): A high Egyptian official who became the master of Joseph. It is particularly mentioned that he was an Egyptian, i.e. one of the native Egyptian officials at the Hyksos court. Strong's Hebrew 6318. Potiphar -- Joseph's master... 6317, 6318. Potiphar. 6319 . Joseph's master. Transliteration: Potiphar Phonetic Spelling: (po-tee-far') Short Definition: Potiphar. ... /hebrew/6318.htm - 5k Library Joseph and Potiphar's Wife; of what Kind Love to Females Ought to ... The Complete Surrender. Chapter xl Joseph, a Servant, a Prisoner, and a Saint. The Story of Joseph and his Coat of Many Colors Goodness in a Dungeon Chapter xxxix Concerning the Signal Chastity of Joseph. Joseph and his Brethren. Joseph, the Prime Minister Thesaurus Potiphar (4 Occurrences)... Believing the false accusation which his profligate wife brought against Joseph, Potiphar cast him into prison, where he remained for some years. ...POTIPHAR. ... /p/potiphar.htm - 8k Pot'i-phar (2 Occurrences) Officials (229 Occurrences) Life-guard (5 Occurrences) Executioners (32 Occurrences) Prison (131 Occurrences) Pharaoh's (72 Occurrences) Bodyguard (23 Occurrences) Chamberlain (14 Occurrences) Officer (70 Occurrences) Resources What is the story of Joseph and Potiphar? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the account of Potiphar's wife? | GotQuestions.org Why did Pharaoh give Joseph so much power? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Potiphar (4 Occurrences)Genesis 37:36 Genesis 39:1 Genesis 39:4 Genesis 39:5 Subtopics Related Terms |
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