Genesis 39:14

she called her household servants. "Look," she said, "this Hebrew has been brought to us to make sport of us. He came to me so he could sleep with me, but I screamed as loud as I could.

Study Bible

she called her household servants
The phrase indicates the immediate action taken by Potiphar's wife to gather witnesses. In the ancient Near Eastern context, household servants were often considered part of the extended family unit, yet they held a lower social status. The Hebrew word for "called" (קָרָא, qara) suggests a summoning with authority, reflecting her position in the household. This action sets the stage for the false accusation, highlighting the power dynamics and the vulnerability of servants and slaves in that era.

Look
This word serves as an imperative, drawing attention to the situation. In Hebrew, "look" (רְאוּ, re'u) is often used to emphasize the importance or urgency of what follows. It is a call to witness and believe her version of events, underscoring the manipulative nature of her claim. The use of this word suggests an attempt to control the narrative and sway the opinion of the servants.

this Hebrew
The term "Hebrew" (עִבְרִי, ivri) is used here with a derogatory connotation. In the ancient world, ethnic identity was significant, and the term "Hebrew" might have been used to emphasize Joseph's outsider status. This reflects the ethnic tensions and prejudices that existed, as well as the vulnerability of foreigners in a foreign land. It also foreshadows the broader narrative of the Israelites in Egypt.

has been brought to us
This phrase implies a lack of agency on Joseph's part, as if he were an object rather than a person. The passive construction suggests that Joseph's presence in the household was not by his own doing, but rather orchestrated by others, possibly hinting at divine providence despite the immediate negative circumstances. It also reflects the historical practice of buying and selling slaves, a common occurrence in ancient Egypt.

to make sport of us
The phrase "to make sport of us" (לְצַחֶק בָּנוּ, letzachek banu) can be understood as "to mock" or "to insult." The Hebrew root צחק (tzachak) often implies laughter or mockery, but in this context, it suggests a more sinister intent. This accusation is a distortion of Joseph's character and intentions, highlighting the theme of false witness and the destructive power of lies. It also reflects the cultural fear of shame and dishonor, which were significant concerns in ancient societies.

He came to me
This statement is a direct accusation, placing the blame squarely on Joseph. The Hebrew verb "came" (בָּא, ba) is simple yet powerful, indicating movement and intention. In the narrative, it contrasts with Joseph's actual behavior, as he consistently resisted her advances. This highlights the theme of integrity and righteousness in the face of false accusations.

so I screamed for help
The claim of screaming for help (וָאֶקְרָא בְּקוֹל גָּדוֹל, va'ekra bekol gadol) is intended to portray Potiphar's wife as a victim. The Hebrew phrase "screamed for help" suggests a loud, desperate cry, which would have been expected in a genuine assault. However, the narrative context reveals this as a fabrication, emphasizing the theme of deceit. This also reflects the societal expectations of women to protect their honor, even if through falsehood, in a patriarchal society.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew slave in Egypt, known for his integrity and faithfulness to God. He is the central figure in this account, falsely accused by Potiphar's wife.

2. Potiphar's Wife
The unnamed wife of Potiphar, who attempts to seduce Joseph and, upon his refusal, falsely accuses him of trying to assault her.

3. Potiphar
An Egyptian officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard, who has entrusted his household to Joseph's care.

4. Household Servants
The servants of Potiphar's household, who are called by Potiphar's wife to witness her false accusation against Joseph.

5. Egypt
The setting of this account, where Joseph is living as a slave after being sold by his brothers.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Adversity
Joseph's refusal to sin with Potiphar's wife demonstrates the importance of maintaining integrity, even when faced with temptation and false accusations.

The Cost of Righteousness
Sometimes doing the right thing can lead to suffering or unjust treatment, as seen in Joseph's imprisonment following his refusal to sin.

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Despite the false accusations and resulting imprisonment, God was with Joseph, using these events to fulfill His greater plan.

The Power of False Accusations
Potiphar's wife's actions remind us of the destructive power of lies and the importance of truthfulness.

Trusting God's Justice
While human justice may fail, as it did for Joseph, believers can trust in God's ultimate justice and timing.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to Potiphar's wife's advances reflect his character and faith in God?

2. In what ways can we maintain our integrity when faced with false accusations or misunderstandings?

3. How does Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's plan, even when we face unjust treatment?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to ensure we are truthful and avoid bearing false witness against others?

5. How can we find comfort in God's sovereignty and justice when we experience trials similar to Joseph's?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
Joseph's journey to Egypt begins with his brothers selling him into slavery, setting the stage for his time in Potiphar's house.

Exodus 20:16
The commandment against bearing false witness connects to Potiphar's wife's false accusation against Joseph.

Proverbs 6:16-19
Lists things the Lord hates, including a lying tongue and a false witness, which relate to the actions of Potiphar's wife.

1 Peter 2:19-20
Discusses enduring unjust suffering, which parallels Joseph's experience of being falsely accused and imprisoned.