Potiphar is a significant figure in the biblical narrative of Joseph, found in the Book of Genesis. He is introduced in Genesis 37:36 and plays a crucial role in the unfolding of Joseph's account. Potiphar is described as an Egyptian officer of Pharaoh, specifically the captain of the guard, which indicates a high-ranking position within the Egyptian hierarchy. His name, Potiphar, is believed to mean "he whom Ra has given," reflecting the Egyptian culture and religious context in which he lived.

Role in Joseph's Life

Potiphar's most notable involvement in the biblical account is his purchase of Joseph as a slave. After Joseph's brothers sold him into slavery, he was brought to Egypt and sold to Potiphar. Genesis 39:1 states, "Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt, where an Egyptian named Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there."

Under Potiphar's ownership, Joseph quickly rose to a position of trust and responsibility. The Lord was with Joseph, and he found favor in Potiphar's eyes. Genesis 39:4 records, "Joseph found favor in his sight and became his personal attendant. Potiphar put him in charge of his household and entrusted him with everything he owned." This trust allowed Joseph to manage Potiphar's entire household, demonstrating Joseph's integrity and the divine blessing upon him.

The Incident with Potiphar's Wife

The narrative takes a dramatic turn with the incident involving Potiphar's wife. She attempted to seduce Joseph, but he steadfastly refused her advances, citing his loyalty to Potiphar and his fear of sinning against God. Genesis 39:9 captures Joseph's response: "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" Despite Joseph's refusal, Potiphar's wife falsely accused him of attempting to assault her, leading to Joseph's imprisonment.

Potiphar's reaction to his wife's accusation is recorded in Genesis 39:19-20 : "When his master heard the account his wife told him, saying, 'This is how your slave treated me,' he burned with anger. So Joseph’s master took him and had him thrown into the prison where the king’s prisoners were confined." The text does not specify whether Potiphar believed his wife's accusation or if he acted out of obligation to maintain household honor. However, Joseph's imprisonment set the stage for his eventual rise to power in Egypt.

Cultural and Historical Context

Potiphar's position as captain of the guard suggests he was responsible for the security of Pharaoh and possibly involved in the administration of justice. His household would have been one of considerable influence and wealth, reflecting the social and political structures of ancient Egypt. The narrative of Potiphar and Joseph provides insight into the dynamics of slavery, power, and integrity within this historical context.

Theological Significance

From a theological perspective, Potiphar's account highlights themes of divine providence and moral integrity. Joseph's experience in Potiphar's house demonstrates God's presence and favor, even in adverse circumstances. Despite the false accusations and subsequent imprisonment, Joseph's faithfulness to God and his ethical conduct remain central to the narrative. Potiphar's role, though secondary, is pivotal in the divine plan that ultimately leads to the preservation of the Israelites during a time of famine.

In summary, Potiphar is a key figure in the account of Joseph, serving as both a benefactor and an unwitting participant in the trials that lead to Joseph's eventual rise to power in Egypt. His interactions with Joseph underscore the themes of trust, integrity, and divine sovereignty that permeate the biblical account.Pot'i-phar (2 Occurrences)

Genesis 37:36
And the Midianites sold him into Egypt unto Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh's, the captain of the guard.
(See RSV)

Genesis 39:1
And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh's, the captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hand of the Ishmaelites, that had brought him down thither.
(See RSV)

Pot'i-phar (2 Occurrences)
Pot'i-phar. Potiphar, Pot'i-phar. Potiphera . Multi-Version Concordance
Pot'i-phar (2 Occurrences). Genesis 37:36 And the Midianites ...
/p/pot'i-phar.htm - 7k

Potiphar (4 Occurrences)

/p/potiphar.htm - 8k

Potiphera (3 Occurrences)

/p/potiphera.htm - 8k

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus