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.
In the biblical narrative, Pôwṭîyphar is introduced as an Egyptian H376H4713 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.
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.
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.
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