Topical Encyclopedia Adultery, as depicted in the biblical narrative of Potiphar's wife, serves as a profound illustration of temptation, integrity, and divine providence. This account is found in the Book of Genesis, specifically Genesis 39, and it highlights the moral challenges faced by Joseph, a key figure in the history of Israel.Context and Background Joseph, the eleventh son of Jacob, was sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and brought to Egypt. There, he was purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. Joseph quickly gained favor in Potiphar's household due to his diligence and the evident blessing of God upon his work. Genesis 39:2-4 (BSB) states, "The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man, serving in the household of his Egyptian master. When his master saw that the LORD was with him and made him prosper in all he did, Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal attendant." The Temptation Potiphar's wife, captivated by Joseph's appearance and success, sought to seduce him. Her repeated advances are recorded in Genesis 39:7 (BSB): "And after some time, his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph and said, 'Sleep with me.'" Joseph's response to her advances is a testament to his character and faithfulness to God. He refused, citing his loyalty to Potiphar and his fear of sinning against God. Genesis 39:8-9 (BSB) records his words: "But he refused. 'Look,' he said to his master’s wife, 'with me here, my master has no concern about anything in his house, and he has entrusted everything he owns to my care. No one in this house is greater than I am. He has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. So how could I do such a great evil and sin against God?'" False Accusation and Imprisonment Despite Joseph's steadfastness, Potiphar's wife persisted. One day, when Joseph entered the house to attend to his duties, she caught him by his cloak and again demanded that he lie with her. Joseph fled, leaving his cloak in her hand. In retaliation, she falsely accused him of attempting to assault her, presenting the cloak as evidence to her husband. Genesis 39:16-18 (BSB) describes her deceit: "She kept his cloak beside her until his master came home. Then she told him the same story: 'The Hebrew slave you brought us came to me to make sport of me, but when I screamed for help, he left his cloak beside me and ran out of the house.'" Potiphar, believing his wife's accusation, was enraged and had Joseph imprisoned. Yet, even in prison, the Lord's favor remained with Joseph, and he continued to prosper. Moral and Theological Implications The account of Potiphar's wife underscores the destructive nature of adultery and the importance of maintaining personal integrity. Joseph's resistance to temptation exemplifies the biblical call to flee from sexual immorality, as later echoed in 1 Corinthians 6:18 (BSB): "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a man can commit is outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body." Furthermore, this narrative highlights the sovereignty of God, who uses even the most adverse circumstances to fulfill His divine purposes. Joseph's unjust imprisonment eventually leads to his rise to power in Egypt, positioning him to save his family and many others during a time of famine. In summary, the account of Potiphar's wife serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of adultery and the virtue of steadfast faithfulness to God, even in the face of false accusations and suffering. Nave's Topical Index Genesis 39:7-12And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes on Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. Nave's Topical Index Library Seventh Commandment Chapter xxxix The Book of Jubilees Abraham, his Trial in Egypt; his Humility Egypt Resources What is spiritual adultery? | GotQuestions.orgIs remarriage after divorce always adultery? | GotQuestions.org What is the difference between fornication and adultery? | GotQuestions.org Adultery: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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