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Genesis 39

23 verses

TL;DR

Joseph gains favor in Egypt, resists Potiphar’s wife’s seduction, is falsely accused, and ends up in prison yet remains prosperous.

Summary

Joseph is brought to Egypt and purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. The LORD blesses Joseph, who becomes overseer of Potiphar’s household. Potiphar’s wife attempts to seduce Joseph; he refuses, citing his loyalty and fear of sin. She accuses him, leading to his imprisonment. While in prison, God continues to show favor, granting him authority over other prisoners. The chapter illustrates divine providence amid human injustice.

Outline
  1. Joseph’s prosperity and stewardship in Potiphar’s house
  2. Temptation by Potiphar’s wife and Joseph’s steadfast refusal
  3. False accusation, imprisonment, and continued divine favor
Themes
Divine providenceIntegrity under temptationJudicial justice and mercy
Keywords
JosephPotiphartemptationintegrityprisonfavorGod
People
JosephPotipharPotiphar’s wifeThe jail keeper
Places
EgyptPotiphar’s housethe prison
Things
Joseph’s garmentPotiphar’s householdthe LORD’s favor
Key Verses
  • Genesis 39:2: Shows Joseph prospering under God's presence.
  • Genesis 39:7: Potiphar’s wife’s explicit seduction attempt.
  • Genesis 39:20: Joseph’s unjust imprisonment.
  • Genesis 39:21: God’s mercy in prison.
  • Genesis 39:23: The jail keeper entrusting Joseph with authority.
Questions
  • What does Joseph’s refusal teach about loyalty and integrity?
  • How does the LORD’s presence influence Joseph’s success?
  • Why does the narrative emphasize Joseph’s prosperity even after imprisonment?
  • What can we learn from the jail keeper’s confidence in Joseph?
Sentiment

mixed
Prosperity and divine favor are balanced with betrayal, false accusation, and imprisonment.