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Commentary on Genesis 39 verses 7–12
Here is, I. A most shameful instance of impudence and immodesty in Joseph's mistress, the shame and scandal of her sex, perfectly lost to all virtue and honour, and not to be mentioned, nor thought of, without the utmost indignation. It was well that she was an Egyptian; for we must have shared in the confusion if such folly had been found in Israel. Observe,
I. Her sin began in the eye: She cast her eyes upon Joseph (Gen 39:7), who was a goodly person, and well-favoured, Gen 39:6. Note, (1.) Remarkable beauty, either of men or women, often proves a dangerous snare both to themselves and others, which forbids pride in it and commands constant watchfulness against the temptation that attends it; favour is deceitful - deceiving. (2.) We have great need to make a covenant with our eyes (Job 31:1), lest the eye infect the heart. Joseph's mistress had a husband that ought to have been to her for a covering of the eyes from all others, Gen 20:16.
2.She was daring and shameless in the sin. With an impudent face, and a harlot's forehead, she said, Lie with me, having already, by her wanton looks and unchaste desires, committed adultery with him in her heart. Note, Where the unclean spirit gets possession and dominion in a soul, it is as with the possessed of the devils (Luk 8:27, Luk 8:29), the clothes of modesty are thrown off and the bands and fetters of shame are broken in pieces. When lust has got head, it will stick at nothing, blush at nothing; decency, and reputation, and conscience, are all sacrificed to that Baal-peor. 3. She was urgent and violent in the temptation. Often she had been denied with the strongest reasons, and yet as often renewed her vile solicitations. She spoke to him day by day, Gen 39:10. Now this was, (1.) Great wickedness in her, and showed her heart fully set to do evil. (2.) A great temptation to Joseph. The hand of Satan, no doubt, was in it, who, when he found he could not overcome him with troubles and the frowns of the world (for in them he still held fast his integrity), assaulted him with soft and charming pleasures, which have ruined more than the former, and have slain their ten-thousands.
II. Here is a most illustrious instance of virtue and resolved chastity in Joseph, who, by the grace of God, was enabled to resist and overcome this temptation; and, all things considered, his escape was, for aught I know, as great an instance of the divine power as the deliverance of the three children out of the fiery furnace.
1.The temptation he was assaulted with was very strong. Never was a more violent onset made upon the fort of chastity than this recorded here. (1.) The sin he was tempted to was uncleanness, which considering his youth, his beauty, his single state, and his plentiful living at the table of a ruler, was a sin which, one would think, might most easily beset him and betray him. (2.) The tempter was his mistress, a person of quality, whom it was his place to obey and his interest to oblige, whose favour would contribute more than any thing to his preferment, and by whose means he might arrive at the highest honours of the court. On the other hand, it was at his utmost peril if he slighted her, and made her his enemy. (3.) Opportunity makes a thief, makes an adulterer, and that favoured the temptation. The tempter was in the house with him; his business led him to be, without any suspicion, where she was; none of the family were within (Gen 39:11); there appeared no danger of its being ever discovered, or, if it should be suspected, his mistress would protect him. (4.) To all this was added importunity, frequent constant importunity, to such a degree that, at last, she laid violent hands on him.
2.His resistance of the temptation was very brave, and the victory truly honourable. The almighty grace of God enabled him to overcome this assault of the enemy,
(1.)By strength of reason; and wherever right reason may be heard, religion no doubt will carry the day. He argues from the respect he owed both to God and his master, Gen 39:8, Gen 39:9. [1.] He would not wrong his master, nor do such an irreparable injury to his honour. He considers, and urges, how kind his master had been to him, what a confidence he had reposed in him, in how many instances he had befriended him, for which he abhorred the thought of making such an ungrateful return. Note, We are bound in honour, as well as justice and gratitude, not in any thing to injure those that have a good opinion of us and place a trust in us, how secretly soever it may be done. See how he argues (Gen 39:9): "There is none greater in this house than I, therefore I will not do it." Note, Those that are great, instead of being proud of their greatness, should use it as an argument against sin. "Is none greater than I? Then I will scorn to do a wicked thing; it is below me to serve a base lust; I will not disparage myself so much." [2.] He would not offend his God. This is the chief argument with which he strengthens his aversion to the sin. How can I do this? not only, How shall I? or, How dare I? but, How can I? Id possumus, quod jure possumus - We can do that which we can do lawfully. It is good to shut out sin with the strongest bar, even that of an impossibility. He that is born of God cannot sin, Jo1 3:9. Three arguments Joseph urges upon himself. First, He considers who he was that was tempted. "I; others may perhaps take their liberty, but I cannot. I that am an Israelite in covenant with God, that profess religion, and relation to him: it is next to impossible for me to do so." Secondly, What the sin was to which he was tempted: This great wickedness. Others might look upon it as a small matter, a peccadillo, a trick of youth; but Joseph had another idea of it. In general, when at any time we are tempted to sin, we must consider the great wickedness there is in it, let sin appear sin (Rom 7:13), call it by its own name, and never go about to lessen it. Particularly let the sin of uncleanness always be looked upon as great wickedness, as an exceedingly sinful sin, that wars against the soul as much as any other. Thirdly, Against whom he was tempted to sin - against God; not only, "How shall I do it, and sin against my master, my mistress, myself, my own body and soul; but against God?" Note, Gracious souls look upon this as the worst thing in sin that it is against God, against his nature and his dominion, against his love and his design. Those that love God do for this reason hate sin.
(2.)By stedfastness of resolution. The grace of God enabled him to overcome the temptation by avoiding the tempter. [1.] He hearkened not to her, so much as to be with her, Gen 39:10. Note, Those that would be kept from harm must keep themselves out of harm's way. Avoid it, pass not by it. Nay, [2.] When she laid hold of him, he left his garment in her hand, Gen 39:12. He would not stay so much as to parley with the temptation, but flew out from it with the utmost abhorrence; he left his garment, as one escaping for his life. Note, It is better to lose a good coat than a good conscience.
But what should I say about the arrangement of his private house, which he governed? However, he accomplished more by ruling himself before others. And even though he was attractive in appearance and very handsome, he did not use the beauty of his face to cause harm to others, but preserved it for his own grace. He believed himself to be more beautiful if he could prove himself more attractive through modesty and the cultivation of chastity rather than through the loss of his virtue. He considered true beauty to be one that didn't attract the eyes of others or harm fragile minds, but gained the admiration and judgment of everyone, being of no deceit and deserving praise. Now, if anyone with impudent eyes looked, the fault is of the one who saw improperly, not of the one who did not want to be seen improperly; and there is no fault in what was seen. It was not in the power of the servant not to be seen: the husband should have guarded the eyes of his wife. If he had no fear about his wife, this man believed it to be a testimony of modesty, not a laxity of behavior. However, men should learn to even guard the eyes of women. For even those who do not want to be loved are attracted. Finally, Joseph was tempted by a woman who scorned his love. And Scripture defended him well, saying: "And his master's wife cast her eyes on Joseph"; that is, he did not display himself, nor did he take advantage. But she cast her own snares and was caught in her own trap. She spread her own nets and became entangled in her own chains.
“Afterwards,” it says. What is meant by “afterwards”? After Joseph had been entrusted with control of the whole household and after his being shown such esteem by his master, “his master’s wife set her eye on Joseph.” See the shamelessness of this wanton woman. It was not because she considered herself to be mistress of the house that she took this into her head; it was not because he was a servant. Instead, under the spell of Joseph’s charm and aflame with satanic desire, she endeavored at this point to assail the young man. With this evil intent fixed in her mind, she looked for a suitable moment of privacy for putting into effect this illicit endeavor. “But he refused,” the text says. He did not submit, nor did he accept the invitation. Joseph realized, you see, the great ruin it would bring him. Instead of thinking of himself, he was greatly concerned as well to deliver her from this folly and improper desire, as far as was possible. He offered her advice calculated to awaken her to a sense of shame and make her realize what was for her good.
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SUMMARY
Genesis 39:8 powerfully illustrates Joseph's unwavering integrity and profound loyalty to both his earthly master and his divine Lord in the face of intense sexual temptation. Immediately following Potiphar's wife's persistent advances, Joseph decisively refuses her, articulating his deep respect for his master's trust and the extensive authority he had been granted over the entire household, thereby highlighting his steadfast commitment to moral purity and his recognition of the sacred boundaries of marriage.
CONTEXT
Literary Context: This verse is a pivotal moment in the unfolding narrative of Joseph's life, specifically within the account of his servitude in Potiphar's house. Having been sold into slavery by his jealous brothers, Joseph's initial circumstances were dire. However, the preceding verses (Genesis 39:2-6) establish that "the Lord was with Joseph," causing him to prosper and find favor in Potiphar's eyes. This divine blessing led Potiphar to entrust Joseph with complete oversight of his entire household and possessions, making him effectively the chief steward. This elevation, while a testament to Joseph's character and God's favor, also placed him in a uniquely vulnerable position. Potiphar's wife, observing Joseph's handsome appearance, began to pursue him daily, culminating in the direct proposition that Joseph vehemently rejects in this verse. His refusal sets the stage for the subsequent false accusation and Joseph's unjust imprisonment, yet it simultaneously reinforces his unyielding moral fortitude.
Historical & Cultural Context: In ancient Egypt, household management was a crucial aspect of a wealthy official's life. A chief steward, like Joseph, held immense power and responsibility, overseeing all domestic affairs, finances, and servants. This position often required a high degree of trust, as the steward effectively managed the master's entire estate. While slavery existed, the level of trust placed in Joseph was exceptional, indicating his proven competence and loyalty. Furthermore, ancient Near Eastern societies, including Egypt, generally held a strong view of marital fidelity, even if practices sometimes deviated. Adultery was considered a grave offense, a violation of the husband's honor and property rights, and could carry severe penalties. For a slave to commit adultery with his master's wife would be an egregious betrayal of trust, potentially punishable by death. Joseph's understanding of these societal norms, coupled with a deeper, divinely-informed moral code, shaped his response.
Key Themes: Genesis 39:8 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the book of Genesis and the broader biblical narrative. Firstly, it underscores the theme of Divine Presence and Providence, as Joseph's success and ability to resist temptation are consistently attributed to "the Lord was with Joseph" (Genesis 39:2 and Genesis 39:3). Secondly, it highlights the theme of Faithful Stewardship, demonstrating Joseph's commitment to managing his master's affairs with integrity, even when faced with personal risk. This foreshadows the broader biblical teaching on being faithful with what is entrusted to us. Thirdly, the verse is central to the theme of Integrity and Moral Purity, showcasing Joseph's unwavering commitment to righteousness despite immense pressure. His refusal to sin, especially when no human eye (except the temptress's) was present, speaks to a deeply internalized moral compass. Finally, it exemplifies the theme of Resisting Temptation, providing a powerful model of immediate and decisive rejection of sin, rooted in a fear of God, which is further elaborated in Genesis 39:9.
EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
Key Word Analysis
Verse Breakdown
Literary Devices
The passage employs several literary devices to enhance its impact. Contrast is evident in the stark difference between Joseph's unwavering integrity and Potiphar's wife's persistent, immoral advances. This highlights Joseph's exceptional character against a backdrop of depravity. Irony is present in the fact that Joseph, a slave, demonstrates greater moral freedom and adherence to principles than his master's wife, a woman of high status. Furthermore, the extensive trust placed in Joseph by Potiphar, intended to foster loyalty, becomes the very context for a temptation that, if succumbed to, would be the ultimate betrayal of that trust. The phrase "to my hand" serves as a powerful Metonymy, where "hand" represents the extensive authority and stewardship that Potiphar had delegated to Joseph, symbolizing the full scope of his responsibility and the sacred trust he was determined to uphold.
THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Joseph's resolute refusal in Genesis 39:8 is not merely an act of moral rectitude but a profound theological statement. It reveals a man whose integrity is rooted in a deep awareness of God's presence and a commitment to divine principles, even when facing personal cost. Joseph understood that his actions had implications beyond human consequences; they were ultimately before God. His faithfulness in managing Potiphar's household, culminating in this moment of resisting temptation, exemplifies the biblical call to faithful stewardship—recognizing that all we have and manage ultimately belongs to God, and we are accountable to Him. This integrity, born out of a desire to honor God and his master, serves as a powerful testament to the transformative power of God's presence in a believer's life, enabling them to stand firm against sin.
REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Joseph's response in Genesis 39:8 offers a timeless paradigm for navigating temptation in our own lives, particularly in areas of trust and moral purity. It teaches us the critical importance of establishing and maintaining clear moral boundaries before temptation strikes, allowing for an immediate and decisive "no." We are called to recognize and honor the trust placed in us by others, whether in personal relationships, professional roles, or spiritual responsibilities, understanding that our actions reflect on our character and our walk with God. Joseph's integrity stemmed from prioritizing God and a clear conscience above fleeting pleasure or personal gain. His example reminds us that true strength in resisting sin comes not merely from avoiding human consequences, but from a deep-seated desire to please God, knowing that our ultimate accountability is to Him. This commitment empowers us to protect the integrity of our relationships and our own souls.
Questions for Reflection
FAQ
Why was Joseph so quick and firm in his refusal?
Answer: Joseph's immediate and firm refusal stemmed from a combination of deeply held principles: profound personal integrity, unwavering loyalty to his master who had placed immense trust in him, and most importantly, a deep-seated fear of God. As he explicitly states in the subsequent verse, Genesis 39:9, he viewed such an act as "great wickedness" and "sin against God." His quick response indicates a pre-established commitment to moral purity and a clear understanding of right and wrong, demonstrating that his moral compass was not swayed by circumstance or desire.
What does "wotteth not" mean in this context?
Answer: "Wotteth not" is an archaic English phrase from the King James Version, meaning "knows not" or "is unaware." In Genesis 39:8, Joseph uses it to emphasize the extraordinary extent of Potiphar's trust in him. Potiphar had given Joseph such complete freedom and authority over his household that he didn't even bother to monitor what was happening, except concerning his wife. This highlights the depth of Potiphar's confidence in Joseph's stewardship and the profound betrayal it would be to violate that trust.
How did Joseph gain such a position of trust as a slave?
Answer: Joseph's remarkable rise to such a position of trust was attributed primarily to the Lord's presence and blessing upon him. The text repeatedly states, "the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man" (Genesis 39:2). Potiphar observed that "the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand" (Genesis 39:3), leading him to recognize Joseph's exceptional administrative skills, diligence, and faithfulness. This divine favor, coupled with Joseph's demonstrated competence and integrity, earned him Potiphar's complete confidence, leading to his appointment as chief steward over the entire household.
CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Joseph's steadfast refusal of temptation in Genesis 39:8 profoundly foreshadows Christ in several significant ways. Like Joseph, who was unjustly sold into servitude and served faithfully despite his circumstances, Christ perfectly obeyed His Father's will, even unto death on the cross (Philippians/2-8). Joseph's unwavering integrity in the face of sexual temptation, rooted in his loyalty to his master and, more deeply, to God, mirrors Christ's perfect righteousness and His absolute victory over all temptation, including the devil's direct assaults in the wilderness (Matthew/4-1-11). Christ, the ultimate faithful steward, was entrusted with all authority in heaven and on earth by the Father (Matthew/28-18), and He never betrayed that trust. He perfectly upheld God's law and demonstrated the ultimate standard of purity and obedience, not for His own benefit, but to secure salvation for His people, becoming the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. Joseph's integrity, though admirable, points to the flawless, sinless life of Jesus, who alone could offer Himself as a perfect sacrifice.