### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The name **Pôwṭîyphar**, represented by `{{H6318}}`, is of Egyptian derivation and identifies a specific individual in the biblical narrative. It appears **2 times** in **2 unique verses**, exclusively in the account of Joseph's arrival in Egypt.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In the biblical narrative, **Pôwṭîyphar** is introduced as an **Egyptian** `{{H376}}``{{H4713}}` who serves as an **officer** `{{H5631}}` of **Pharaoh** `{{H6547}}` and **captain** `{{H8269}}` of the **guard** `{{H2876}}`. His significance lies in his purchase of **Joseph** `{{H3130}}`. One account states that the **Midianites** `{{H4092}}` **sold** `{{H4376}}` Joseph to **Potiphar** [[Genesis 37:36]]. Another verse specifies that **Potiphar** **bought** `{{H7069}}` Joseph from the **hands** `{{H3027}}` of the **Ishmeelites** `{{H3459}}` after they had **brought him down** `{{H3381}}` to **Egypt** `{{H4714}}` [[Genesis 39:1]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the identity and context of **Potiphar**:
* `{{H5631}}` **çârîyç** (officer): This word describes Potiphar's high-ranking position within Pharaoh's administration. Its definition as a "minister of state" or "chamberlain" highlights his status [[Genesis 39:1]].
* `{{H8269}}` **sar** (captain): This term further defines his role as a "head person" or "ruler." It signifies his authority and leadership within the Egyptian power structure [[Genesis 37:36]].
* `{{H2876}}` **ṭabbâch** (guard): This specifies the nature of his command. The definition, which includes "a butcher; hence, a lifeguardsman (because he was acting as an executioner)," suggests he was in charge of an elite and powerful unit [[Genesis 39:1]].
* `{{H3130}}` **Yôwçêph** (Joseph): The person whose life is directly impacted by Potiphar. The entire context for Potiphar's appearance in scripture revolves around his transaction involving Joseph [[Genesis 39:1]].
### Theological Significance
The narrative role of `{{H6318}}` carries significant weight in the story of Joseph.
* **Instrument in Narrative Progression:** Potiphar's purchase of **Joseph** `{{H3130}}` is the pivotal event that places Joseph within an influential Egyptian household. He buys Joseph from the **Ishmeelites** `{{H3459}}`, directly linking the brothers' act of selling him to his new life in **Egypt** `{{H4714}}` [[Genesis 39:1]].
* **Example of Gentile Authority:** As an **officer** `{{H5631}}` of **Pharaoh** `{{H6547}}` and **captain** `{{H8269}}` of the **guard** `{{H2876}}`, **Potiphar** represents the established Egyptian power structure into which Joseph is integrated.
* **Context for Divine Presence:** While Potiphar is the human master who **bought** `{{H7069}}` Joseph, the subsequent narrative immediately establishes that "the LORD was with **Joseph**" in the house of his **Egyptian** `{{H4713}}` master [[Genesis 39:2]]. Potiphar's role, therefore, becomes the setting against which God's favor is demonstrated.
### Summary
In summary, **Pôwṭîyphar** `{{H6318}}` is not a symbolic term but the name of a key figure in the life of Joseph. His identity as an influential **Egyptian** `{{H4713}}` official and his action of purchasing Joseph are fundamental to the Genesis narrative. The verses presenting him establish the exact circumstances that facilitate Joseph's integration into **Egypt** `{{H4714}}`, demonstrating how a foreign official plays a crucial part in the unfolding of the scriptural story.
TRV