Topical Encyclopedia Background and ContextPotiphar is a significant figure in the biblical narrative of Joseph, found in the Book of Genesis. He was an Egyptian officer, specifically the captain of the guard, and a high-ranking official under Pharaoh. Potiphar's account is intertwined with that of Joseph, the favored son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers. Joseph's journey from slavery to becoming a powerful leader in Egypt is marked by a series of trials and divine interventions, with Potiphar playing a pivotal role in one of the most notable episodes of injustice in Joseph's life. Joseph in Potiphar's House Upon being sold into slavery, Joseph was purchased by Potiphar. The Bible records that "the LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, serving in the household of his Egyptian master" (Genesis 39:2). Potiphar recognized Joseph's exceptional abilities and the divine favor upon him, entrusting him with the management of his entire household. Genesis 39:4-5 states, "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 the prosperity he brought to Potiphar's house, he faced a grave injustice due to the false accusation of Potiphar's wife. She attempted to seduce Joseph, but he steadfastly refused, saying, "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9). In retaliation for his rejection, Potiphar's wife falsely accused Joseph of attempting to assault her. She presented his garment as supposed evidence, claiming, "This Hebrew slave you brought us came to make a fool of me" (Genesis 39:17). Potiphar's Response Potiphar's reaction to his wife's accusation was swift and severe. Despite Joseph's proven character and the blessings he had brought to the household, Potiphar chose to believe his wife's account. Genesis 39:19-20 records, "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 into the prison where the king’s prisoners were confined." Analysis of Injustice The episode of Joseph and Potiphar's wife is a classic example of injustice, where an innocent man suffers due to false testimony and the misuse of power. Joseph's experience highlights several key themes: 1. Integrity and Faithfulness: Despite the false accusations, Joseph maintained his integrity and faithfulness to God. His refusal to sin against God, even when faced with temptation and false charges, underscores the importance of righteousness. 2. Misuse of Authority: Potiphar's decision to imprison Joseph without a thorough investigation reflects the potential for authority to be misused. It serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of acting on unverified accusations and the responsibility of leaders to seek truth and justice. 3. Divine Providence: Although Joseph faced injustice, the narrative demonstrates God's providential care. Even in prison, "the LORD was with Joseph and extended kindness to him" (Genesis 39:21), setting the stage for his eventual rise to power in Egypt. Conclusion The account of Potiphar and Joseph is a profound illustration of injustice in the biblical narrative. It challenges believers to uphold integrity, seek justice, and trust in God's sovereign plan, even amidst trials and false accusations. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 39:20And 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. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Chapter xl The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs. Chapter xli Homilies on Philippians, Colossians, and Thessalonians. The First Chaldaean Empire and the Hyksos in Egypt Resources What does the Bible say about injustice? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about resentment? | GotQuestions.org How should a Christian view being “woke”? | GotQuestions.org Injustice: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Injustice of the Least Kind, Condemned Injustice: A Bad Example Leads To Injustice: Covetousness Leads To Injustice: General Scriptures Concerning Injustice: God: Approves not of Injustice: God: Hears the Cry of Those Who Suffer Injustice: God: Provoked to Avenge Injustice: Intemperance Leads To Injustice: Saints should Bear, Patiently Injustice: Saints should Take No Vengeance For Injustice: Saints should Testify Against Injustice: Specially to be Avoided Towards: Servants Injustice: Specially to be Avoided Towards: The Poor Injustice: Specially to be Avoided Towards: The Stranger and Fatherless Injustice: The Wicked: Deal With Injustice: The Wicked: Judge With Injustice: The Wicked: Practise, Without Shame Related Terms |
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