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Genesis 39:20

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And 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.

And Joseph's {H3130} master {H113} took {H3947} him, and put him {H5414} into the prison {H1004}{H5470}, a place {H4725} where the king's {H4428} prisoners {H615} were bound {H631}: and he was there in the prison {H1004}{H5470}.

Yosef's master took him and put him in prison, in the place where the king's prisoners were kept; and there he was in the prison.

So Joseph’s master took him and had him thrown into the prison where the king’s prisoners were confined. While Joseph was there in the prison,

And Joseph’s master took him, and put him into the prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were bound: and he was there in the prison.

Commentary

Context of Genesis 39:20

Genesis 39:20 describes a pivotal moment in Joseph's life. Having been sold into slavery by his brothers (Genesis 37:28) and brought to Egypt, Joseph rose to a position of trust in the household of Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. However, his integrity was challenged by Potiphar's wife, who repeatedly tried to seduce him. When Joseph refused, she falsely accused him of attempted assault. Enraged, Potiphar, instead of potentially executing Joseph, chose to imprison him. This verse marks Joseph's transition from a trusted servant to a prisoner, highlighting the profound injustice he faced.

Key Themes in Genesis 39:20

  • Injustice and Suffering: Joseph, though innocent and righteous, faced severe punishment for a crime he did not commit. This verse underscores the reality of unmerited suffering, a recurring theme throughout biblical narratives.
  • Divine Sovereignty Amidst Adversity: While seemingly a setback, Joseph's imprisonment was part of God's overarching plan. Even in this dark place, it sets the stage for God's continued favor and presence with Joseph, which would eventually lead to his exaltation and the salvation of his family.
  • Perseverance and Faithfulness: Despite repeated trials—betrayal, slavery, and now false accusation and imprisonment—Joseph consistently demonstrates faithfulness to God and maintains his integrity.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "the prison, a place where the king's prisoners [were] bound" uses the Hebrew term beth sohar (בֵּית הַסֹּהַר), which literally means "house of the round-up" or "house of detention." This was not merely a temporary holding cell but a more permanent facility for state prisoners, often under the direct supervision of a high official. The description "where the king's prisoners were bound" suggests a secure and restrictive environment, implying chains or other forms of restraint were common for those held there.

Practical Application

Genesis 39:20 offers powerful lessons for believers today:

  • Trust in God's Plan: Joseph's story reminds us that even when circumstances are unjust and life takes unexpected turns, God remains sovereign. Our setbacks can be part of His greater purpose, even if we cannot see it at the time.
  • Responding to Injustice: Joseph's integrity in the face of false accusation provides a model for how to endure suffering with dignity and reliance on God. It encourages us not to give up hope, even when we are wronged.
  • God's Presence in Adversity: Though Joseph was physically confined, God was with him. This verse, leading into the next, assures us that God does not abandon us in our darkest moments, reminding believers that God can work all things together for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash (May 20, 2025) using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Genesis 40:15 (5 votes)

    For indeed I was stolen away out of the land of the Hebrews: and here also have I done nothing that they should put me into the dungeon.

  • Genesis 40:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And it came to pass after these things, [that] the butler of the king of Egypt and [his] baker had offended their lord the king of Egypt.

  • Genesis 40:3 (2 votes)

    And he put them in ward in the house of the captain of the guard, into the prison, the place where Joseph [was] bound.

  • Psalms 76:10 (2 votes)

    Surely the wrath of man shall praise thee: the remainder of wrath shalt thou restrain.

  • Psalms 105:18 (2 votes)

    Whose feet they hurt with fetters: he was laid in iron:

  • Psalms 105:19 (2 votes)

    Until the time that his word came: the word of the LORD tried him.

  • Genesis 41:9 (2 votes)

    ¶ Then spake the chief butler unto Pharaoh, saying, I do remember my faults this day: