Potipherah is a biblical figure mentioned in the Book of Genesis, specifically in the narrative concerning Joseph, one of the twelve sons of Jacob. Potipherah is identified as the priest of On, an ancient city in Egypt, also known as Heliopolis. His name, Potipherah, means "he whom Ra has given," reflecting the Egyptian practice of naming individuals in honor of their deities, in this case, Ra, the sun god.

Biblical References:

Potipherah is mentioned in Genesis 41:45 and Genesis 41:50. In Genesis 41:45, Pharaoh gives Joseph a new name, Zaphenath-paneah, and arranges his marriage to Asenath, the daughter of Potipherah. This marriage signifies Joseph's integration into Egyptian society and his rise to power as the second-in-command to Pharaoh. The Berean Standard Bible states:

"Pharaoh gave Joseph the name Zaphenath-paneah, and he gave him Asenath daughter of Potipherah, priest of On, to be his wife. And Joseph went throughout the land of Egypt." (Genesis 41:45)

In Genesis 41:50, Potipherah is again mentioned in the context of Joseph's family life, as Asenath bears Joseph two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, before the years of famine arrive:

"Before the years of famine came, two sons were born to Joseph by Asenath daughter of Potipherah, priest of On." (Genesis 41:50)

Historical and Cultural Context:

Potipherah's role as the priest of On places him in a significant religious and social position within ancient Egyptian society. On, or Heliopolis, was a major center for the worship of Ra, and its priests held considerable influence. The marriage alliance between Joseph and Asenath, Potipherah's daughter, would have been politically advantageous, further solidifying Joseph's status and acceptance in Egypt.

The mention of Potipherah highlights the intersection of Hebrew and Egyptian cultures during Joseph's time. It underscores the providential hand of God in Joseph's life, as he navigates his journey from slavery to leadership, ultimately preserving the lineage of Israel during a time of widespread famine.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, Potipherah's inclusion in the Genesis narrative serves to illustrate God's sovereignty and faithfulness. Despite Joseph's initial hardships, God orchestrates events to fulfill His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Joseph's marriage to Asenath, facilitated by Potipherah, is part of the divine plan to save the nascent nation of Israel and ensure its future prosperity.

Potipherah's presence in the biblical account also reflects the broader theme of God's people interacting with surrounding nations and cultures. It demonstrates that God's purposes transcend ethnic and cultural boundaries, using individuals from diverse backgrounds to accomplish His will.Potipherah or Potipherah

was priest or prince of On, and his daughter Asenath was given Joseph to wife by Pharaoh. (Genesis 41:45,50; 46:20) (B.C. 1715.)

The Testament of Joseph Concerning Sobriety.
... Ps. Jon. of Genesis 41:45, "And he gave him to wife Asenath, whom Dinah bare to
Shechem: and the wife of Potipherah prince of Tanes brought up.". ...
/.../xi the testament of joseph concerning.htm

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