Genesis 39:19

Translation
King James Version
¶ And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me; that his wrath was kindled.
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KJV (with Strong's)
And it came to pass, when his master H113 heard H8085 the words H1697 of his wife H802, which she spake H1696 unto him, saying H559, After this manner H1697 did H6213 thy servant H5650 to me; that his wrath H639 was kindled H2734.
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Complete Jewish Bible
When his master heard what his wife said as she showed him, "Here's what your slave did to me," he became furious.
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Berean Standard Bible
When his master heard the story his wife told him, saying, “This is what your slave did to me,” he burned with anger.
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American Standard Version
And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife, which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me; that his wrath was kindled.
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World English Bible Messianic
When his master heard the words of his wife, which she spoke to him, saying, “This is what your servant did to me,” his wrath was kindled.
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Geneva Bible (1599)
Then when his master heard the wordes of his wife, which she tolde him, saying, After this maner did thy seruant to me, his anger was kindled.
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Young's Literal Translation
And it cometh to pass when his lord heareth the words of his wife, which she hath spoken unto him, saying, `According to these things hath thy servant done to me,' that his anger burneth;
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See also
2 Thessalonians 2:11Proverbs 18:17Job 29:16Song of Solomon 8:7Acts 25:16Proverbs 29:12Genesis 4:5
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All Genesis Sites (Canaan)
All Genesis Sites (Canaan) View full PDF
All Genesis Sites (Middle East)
All Genesis Sites (Middle East) View full PDF
Genesis 37:12-36, Genesis 39:1-23, Genesis 42:1-26, Genesis 42:27-38, Genesis 43:1-34, Genesis 45:1-28, Genesis 46:1-27, Genesis 46:28-47:12, Genesis 47:27-31, Genesis 49:29-50:14, Genesis 50:15-21, Genesis 50:22-25
Genesis 37:12-36, Genesis 39:1-23, Genesis 42:1-26, Genesis 42:27-38, Genesis 43:1-34, Genesis 45:1-28, Genesis 46:1-27, Genesis 46:28-47:12, Genesis 47:27-31, Genesis 49:29-50:14, Genesis 50:15-21, Genesis 50:22-25 View full PDF

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In the KJVVerse 1,169 of 31,102

Study This Verse

SUMMARY

Genesis 39:19 marks the dramatic turning point in Joseph's life within Potiphar's household, detailing Potiphar's immediate and intense fury upon hearing his wife's cunningly fabricated accusation against Joseph. This pivotal moment precipitates Joseph's unjust imprisonment, yet it simultaneously serves as an unforeseen catalyst, propelling him further along the path of God's sovereign plan for his life.

CONTEXT

  • Literary Context: This verse is the climax of the narrative arc detailing Joseph's service in Potiphar's house and his steadfast resistance to sexual temptation. Preceding this, Joseph had risen to a position of unparalleled trust and authority, managing Potiphar's entire estate. Potiphar's wife, however, repeatedly attempted to seduce Joseph, who consistently refused, citing his loyalty to his master and, more significantly, his unwavering commitment not to sin against God (Genesis 39:9). The immediate preceding verses describe her final, desperate attempt to force herself upon Joseph, culminating in his flight, leaving his garment behind as "evidence" (Genesis 39:12). Verse 19 then records her malicious twisting of this event into a false accusation, setting the stage for Potiphar's furious reaction and Joseph's subsequent imprisonment.
  • Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Egypt, the master of a household held absolute authority over his slaves, including the power of life and death. A master's wife, while perhaps not holding the same legal authority, certainly possessed significant social standing and influence within the domestic sphere. Accusations from a wife against a male servant, especially concerning sexual impropriety, would have been taken very seriously, often without extensive investigation, given the social hierarchy and the potential for perceived dishonor to the master. The garment left behind would have been considered compelling circumstantial evidence, lending credibility to her fabricated story in the absence of a slave's right to a fair hearing.
  • Key Themes: This verse powerfully contributes to several overarching themes in the Joseph narrative and the book of Genesis. It highlights the theme of Divine Sovereignty amidst human injustice, demonstrating how God works through sinful human actions (Potiphar's wife's deception, Potiphar's wrath) to advance His purposes for Joseph. It also underscores the theme of Integrity and Righteousness in the face of temptation and suffering, as Joseph's commitment to purity directly leads to his immediate hardship, yet ultimately positions him for future exaltation. Furthermore, it exemplifies the theme of False Accusation and Suffering, a recurring motif for righteous individuals throughout biblical history, foreshadowing later instances of innocent suffering. The narrative emphasizes Joseph's consistent character, even when it leads to severe, unjust consequences, as seen in his earlier refusal to sin against God (Genesis 39:9).

EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

Genesis 39:19 vividly captures the immediate and potent emotional response of Potiphar to his wife's deceitful account concerning Joseph, marking a critical juncture in Joseph's life.

Key Word Analysis

  • master (Hebrew, ʼâdôwn', H113): This term denotes a sovereign, controller, lord, or owner. In this context, it emphasizes Potiphar's absolute authority over Joseph as his slave, highlighting the power imbalance that made Joseph particularly vulnerable to his master's wrath and judgment without recourse.
  • words (Hebrew, dâbâr', H1697): This word signifies "a word," but also "a matter" or "thing," and can imply "a cause" or "report." Here, it refers to the specific, carefully constructed narrative of Potiphar's wife, which was designed to inflame her husband's anger and justify her false accusation against Joseph. Her "words" were not merely sounds but a calculated, damaging report.
  • kindled (Hebrew, chârâh', H2734): This primitive root means "to glow or grow warm," and figuratively, "to blaze up" with anger, zeal, or jealousy. The use of this verb, often associated with fire, powerfully conveys the sudden, intense, and consuming nature of Potiphar's rage. His anger was not a slow burn but an immediate, explosive reaction to what he perceived as a grave insult and betrayal.

Verse Breakdown

  • "¶ And it came to pass, when his master heard the words of his wife,": This opening clause establishes the critical moment of reception. Potiphar, as the "master," is presented as the one with authority, whose perception and reaction will determine Joseph's immediate fate. The focus is on the act of hearing and the specific content—"the words of his wife"—which are inherently biased and manipulative, setting the stage for his subsequent emotional outburst.
  • "which she spake unto him, saying, After this manner did thy servant to me;": This part reveals the direct, accusatory nature of the wife's communication. Her phrasing, "After this manner did thy servant to me," is deliberately ambiguous yet highly inflammatory. It avoids explicit details while implying a grave offense, leveraging the "evidence" of Joseph's discarded garment and her own feigned distress to create a narrative of a violent assault. The term "thy servant" is used to underscore Joseph's subordinate status and Potiphar's ownership, amplifying the perceived insult to his authority and honor.
  • "that his wrath was kindled.": This concluding clause describes the immediate and profound effect of the wife's words on Potiphar. The phrase "his wrath was kindled" (Hebrew: chârâh ʼaph – literally, "his nose burned") is a vivid idiom for intense, blazing anger. It signifies a sudden, passionate, and overwhelming rage that bypasses rational inquiry, leading directly to Joseph's unjust punishment. This unbridled human emotion becomes the unwitting instrument in God's larger providential plan.

Literary Devices

The verse employs several potent literary devices to convey its meaning and emotional impact. Imagery is prominent in the phrase "his wrath was kindled," which evokes the sudden, intense flaring of a fire, vividly depicting Potiphar's explosive anger. This Metaphorical Language highlights the destructive power of unchecked rage fueled by deception. There is also a strong sense of Dramatic Irony, as the reader knows Joseph is innocent and has acted with integrity, yet Potiphar, based on a lie, reacts with fury. This creates tension and underscores the injustice of the situation. Furthermore, the narrative uses Conciseness to deliver a powerful punch; the swiftness of Potiphar's reaction, without any mention of investigation or questioning, emphasizes the immediate and unquestioning belief he places in his wife's deceptive words.

THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS

Genesis 39:19 serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of false accusation and the inherent injustice of a fallen world. Joseph, a man of profound integrity and faithfulness, is unjustly condemned not for his sin, but for his righteousness. Yet, even in this moment of deep human depravity and unrighteous anger, the narrative subtly points to God's overarching sovereignty. Potiphar's wrath, though born of human sin, becomes an unwitting tool in the divine plan, moving Joseph from the comfort of Potiphar's house to the crucible of prison, a necessary step towards his ultimate exaltation and the salvation of his family and many others. This incident, therefore, teaches us that God can redeem even the most unjust circumstances for His greater purposes, demonstrating His ability to work all things for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

REFLECTION AND APPLICATION

Genesis 39:19 offers profound lessons for believers navigating a world often characterized by injustice and misrepresentation. Joseph's experience reminds us that choosing to live righteously and maintain integrity, even when it means rejecting temptation, may not always lead to immediate reward but can, paradoxically, result in suffering, false accusations, and unjust consequences. In such moments, our natural inclination might be to despair, retaliate, or question God's presence. However, Joseph's unwavering character, even in the face of Potiphar's kindled wrath and subsequent imprisonment, serves as a powerful model. It challenges us to cultivate a deep trust in God's sovereign hand, believing that He is at work even when circumstances seem chaotic or unfair. Our ultimate vindication and purpose are found not in avoiding hardship, but in faithfully enduring it with a clear conscience before God, knowing that He sees, He cares, and He will ultimately bring His purposes to fruition through our trials.

Questions for Reflection

  • How do I typically react when I am falsely accused or misunderstood, especially when my intentions were pure?
  • What does Joseph's response (or lack thereof, in this verse) teach me about maintaining integrity in the face of injustice?
  • How can I cultivate a deeper trust in God's sovereignty when circumstances seem to be working against me, as they did for Joseph?

FAQ

Why did Potiphar believe his wife's accusation so readily without investigating?

Answer: The biblical text does not explicitly detail Potiphar's thought process or any investigation. However, several factors likely contributed to his immediate belief and "kindled wrath." Firstly, the social standing of a master's wife in ancient Egypt would have given her testimony significant weight, particularly when leveled against a slave. A slave's word would have carried little to no legal standing against that of his master's wife. Secondly, the presence of Joseph's garment, left behind when he fled (Genesis 39:12), served as compelling "evidence" that would have been difficult for Joseph to refute without a full inquiry, which was unlikely to be granted to a slave. Thirdly, the phrase "his wrath was kindled" (H639, H2734) suggests a deep, personal offense and a swift, passionate emotional response, which often overrides rational thought and the need for thorough investigation. Potiphar's honor and the sanctity of his household were perceived to be violated, leading to an immediate, visceral reaction.

CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT

Joseph's unjust suffering in Genesis 39:19, stemming from a malicious false accusation despite his blameless character and faithfulness, serves as a profound prefigurement of Jesus Christ. Like Joseph, Jesus was entirely innocent, yet He was subjected to false accusations, betrayal, and condemnation by human wrath and injustice (Matthew 26:59-60). Joseph's descent into prison, a consequence of his righteousness, powerfully parallels Christ's suffering, humiliation, and death, which were also undeserved but ultimately part of God's perfect redemptive plan (Isaiah 53:7). Just as Joseph's imprisonment ultimately led to his exaltation and the salvation of many from famine, Christ's suffering, death, and resurrection led to His ultimate exaltation (Philippians 2:8-9) and the eternal salvation of all who believe (John 3:16). This narrative beautifully illustrates how God can use the deepest human injustice and suffering to accomplish His greatest divine purposes, transforming what was meant for evil into good (Genesis 50:20).

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Commentary on Genesis 39 verses 19–23

Here is, 1. Joseph wronged by his master. He believed the accusation, and either Joseph durst not make his defence by telling the truth, as it would reflect too much upon his mistress, or his master would not hear it, or would not believe it, and there is no remedy, he is condemned to perpetual imprisonment, Gen 39:19, Gen 39:20. God restrained his wrath, else he had put him to death; and that wrath which imprisoned him God made to turn to his praise, in order to which Providence so disposed that he should be shut up among the king's prisoners, the state-prisoners. Potiphar, it is likely, chose that prison because it was the worst; for there the iron entered into the soul (Psa 105:18), but God designed to pave the way to his enlargement. He was committed to the king's prison, that he might thence be preferred to the king's person. Note, Many an action of false imprisonment will, in the great day, be found to lie against the enemies and persecutors of God's people. Our Lord Jesus, like Joseph here, was bound, and numbered with the transgressors. 2. Joseph owned and righted by his God, who is, and will be, the just and powerful patron of oppressed innocence. Joseph was at a distance from all his friends and relations, had not them with him to comfort him, or to minister to him, or to mediate for him; but the Lord was with Joseph, and showed him mercy, Gen 39:21. Note, (1.) God despises not his prisoners, Psa 69:33. No gates nor bars can shut out his gracious presence from his people; for he has promised that he will never leave them. (2.) Those that have a good conscience in a prison have a good God there. Integrity and uprightness qualify us for the divine favour, wherever we are. Joseph is not long a prisoner before he becomes a little ruler even in the prison, which is to be attributed, under God, [1.] To the keeper's favour. God gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison. Note, God can raise up friends for his people even where they little expect to find them, and can make them to be pitied even of those that carry them captive, Psa 106:46. [2.] To Joseph's fitness for business. The keeper saw that God was with him, and that every thing prospered under his hand; and therefore entrusted him with the management of the affairs of the prison, Gen 39:22, Gen 39:23. Note, Wisdom and virtue will shine in the narrowest spheres. A good man will do good wherever he is, and will be a blessing even in bonds and banishment; for the Spirit of the Lord is not bound nor banished, witness St. Paul, Phi 1:12, Phi 1:13.

Matthew Henry (1662–1714) — Commentary on the Whole Bible. This section covers verses 19–23. Public domain.
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Ambrose of MilanAD 397
On Joseph the Patriarch
When she could not protect her own vices, she accused the innocent; she joined deceit to deceit, held on to the possessions of others, herself condemned others and set no limit to her fury. Whatever was the reason for her cruelty? Only that she saw that her cravings were meeting with resistance and her forbidden desires were being frustrated of receiving consent. See the reason why the prison opens—to admit the innocent. Why criminals are freed of their chains—that these may be put on the faithful! Why falsifiers of the truth are let go—that one who refused to falsify his trust may be locked in!
Caesarius of ArlesAD 542
SERMON 90.3
That woman, however, did what she threatened, lied to her husband and was believed; and still God was patient. Holy Joseph was thrown into prison. He was held captive like a guilty man, although God was not offended by him. Nor did God fail him there, since Jacob was not guilty in his sight. The Lord was with holy Joseph; because he loved what was holy, he was not overcome by the love of a woman. Her age did not arouse the chaste mind of the youth, nor did the authority of the one who loved him move him to associate with his despised mistress. With her own lips she plotted against the young man. Secretly and without witnesses the shameless woman seized him with her own hand, urging him by her insolent words to sin. Indeed, he is not overcome there, but as words followed words, so one thing followed another; although he had refused when asked repeatedly, still he was seized at the time he fled.
Source: Quotations drawn from early Church Fathers and historical Christian theologians (AD 100–1500). Some quotes address the surrounding passage context rather than this verse alone.
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