Genesis 39:1

Meanwhile, 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.

Study Bible

Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt
The phrase "Now Joseph had been taken down to Egypt" marks a significant transition in Joseph's life and the narrative of Genesis. The Hebrew root for "taken down" is "yarad," which often implies a descent or a lowering, both physically and metaphorically. This descent into Egypt is not just geographical but also represents a humbling of Joseph's status, from favored son to a slave. Egypt, in the biblical context, is often seen as a place of both refuge and testing for the people of Israel. Historically, Egypt was a powerful and advanced civilization, and Joseph's journey there sets the stage for God's providential plan to unfold.

where an Egyptian named Potiphar
The introduction of "an Egyptian named Potiphar" is crucial as it establishes the setting and the key figures in Joseph's story. Potiphar's name in Hebrew, "Potiphera," means "he whom Ra has given," indicating his connection to the Egyptian culture and religion, where Ra was a major deity. Potiphar's Egyptian identity highlights the cultural and religious differences Joseph would face, emphasizing the challenges of maintaining his faith in a foreign land.

an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard
The description "an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard" indicates Potiphar's high status and authority in Egyptian society. The Hebrew term for "officer" is "saris," which can mean a court official or eunuch, though in this context, it likely refers to his role as a high-ranking official. "Captain of the guard" suggests a position of significant military responsibility, overseeing the protection of Pharaoh and his interests. This detail foreshadows the influence and power dynamics Joseph will navigate in Potiphar's household.

bought him from the Ishmaelites
The act of being "bought" by Potiphar underscores Joseph's status as a slave, a stark contrast to his previous life as Jacob's favored son. The Ishmaelites, descendants of Ishmael, Abraham's son with Hagar, are traders in this narrative. Their involvement in Joseph's sale highlights the complex family dynamics and historical tensions between the descendants of Isaac and Ishmael. This transaction also reflects the broader theme of God's sovereignty, as what seems like a tragic event is part of a divine plan.

who had taken him there
The phrase "who had taken him there" reiterates the forced nature of Joseph's journey to Egypt. The Hebrew verb "laqach," meaning "to take" or "to seize," emphasizes the lack of control Joseph had over his circumstances. This element of the account invites reflection on the themes of suffering and divine providence, as Joseph's journey, though initiated by human betrayal, is ultimately used by God for a greater purpose. This sets the stage for the unfolding of God's redemptive plan through Joseph's life in Egypt.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
The favored son of Jacob, sold into slavery by his brothers. His journey to Egypt marks a significant turning point in his life and the unfolding of God's plan.

2. Egypt
A powerful and influential nation in the ancient world, representing a place of both trial and opportunity for Joseph.

3. Potiphar
An Egyptian officer of Pharaoh, specifically the captain of the guard. His role is significant as he becomes Joseph's master and plays a part in Joseph's rise and fall within Egypt.

4. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, under whom Potiphar serves. Although not directly mentioned in this verse, Pharaoh's influence looms over the events in Joseph's life.

5. Ishmaelites
Traders who bought Joseph from his brothers and sold him into slavery in Egypt. They are descendants of Ishmael, Abraham's son, highlighting the interconnectedness of biblical families.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Adversity
Joseph's sale into slavery was a part of God's larger plan. Even in difficult circumstances, God is at work for His purposes.

Faithfulness in Unfamiliar Places
Joseph's journey to Egypt teaches us to remain faithful and trust God, even when we find ourselves in unfamiliar or challenging environments.

The Role of Divine Providence
The events leading Joseph to Egypt demonstrate God's providence, orchestrating events for His glory and the good of His people.

Integrity in All Circumstances
Joseph's life in Egypt, starting with his service in Potiphar's house, is a testament to maintaining integrity and righteousness, regardless of one's situation.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's journey to Egypt illustrate the theme of God's sovereignty and providence in our lives?

2. In what ways can we remain faithful to God when we find ourselves in unfamiliar or challenging situations, as Joseph did in Egypt?

3. How does the account of Joseph and his relationship with Potiphar foreshadow the greater account of redemption found in the Bible?

4. What lessons can we learn from Joseph's experience about maintaining integrity and righteousness in our daily lives?

5. How can the account of Joseph's sale into slavery and subsequent rise to power encourage us to trust in God's plan, even when we face adversity?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
Provides the background of Joseph's journey to Egypt, detailing his brothers' betrayal and the initial sale to the Ishmaelites.

Genesis 50:20
Reflects on Joseph's understanding of God's sovereignty, where he acknowledges that what was meant for evil, God used for good.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen's speech in the New Testament recounts Joseph's account, emphasizing God's presence and favor despite his circumstances.

Psalm 105:17-19
Celebrates Joseph's journey and God's providence, highlighting his trials and eventual rise to power.