Genesis 39:15

When he heard me scream for help, he left his cloak beside me and ran out of the house."

Study Bible

When he heard me scream for help
This phrase captures a pivotal moment in the narrative of Joseph and Potiphar's wife. The Hebrew word for "scream" is "צָעַק" (tsa'aq), which conveys a loud cry or call for assistance. In the ancient Near Eastern context, a scream would have been a public alarm, drawing attention to an urgent situation. This phrase is crucial as it sets the stage for the false accusation against Joseph, highlighting the deceit and manipulation by Potiphar's wife. Her scream was not a genuine call for help but a calculated move to entrap Joseph, reflecting the moral and ethical challenges he faced.

he left his cloak beside me
The "cloak" or "garment" in Hebrew is "בֶּגֶד" (beged), which can also mean "covering" or "garment." In the cultural and historical context of the time, a cloak was an essential piece of clothing, often signifying one's status or identity. Joseph's leaving of his cloak is symbolic of his integrity and his refusal to succumb to temptation. It also serves as a physical piece of evidence used against him, illustrating how something meant to protect and cover can be turned into a tool of deception. This act of leaving the cloak behind underscores Joseph's commitment to righteousness, even when it leads to personal loss.

and ran out of the house
The action of "ran" is translated from the Hebrew "נָס" (nas), meaning to flee or escape. This word choice emphasizes Joseph's urgent desire to remove himself from a compromising situation. In the broader scriptural context, fleeing from sin is a recurring theme, encouraging believers to actively avoid situations that could lead to moral failure. Joseph's decision to run out of the house is a testament to his character and his unwavering commitment to uphold his values, even in the face of false accusations and potential danger. This act of fleeing is not just a physical escape but a spiritual one, demonstrating the importance of maintaining one's integrity in the face of temptation.

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 assault.

3. Potiphar
An Egyptian officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard, who has entrusted Joseph with the management of his household.

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

5. The House
The specific location within Potiphar's estate where the incident between Joseph and Potiphar's wife occurs.

Teaching Points

Integrity in Temptation
Joseph's refusal to sin against God, even when faced with persistent temptation, serves as a model for maintaining integrity in challenging situations.

The Cost of Righteousness
Joseph's experience illustrates that doing the right thing may lead to unjust suffering, yet it is crucial to remain faithful to God's standards.

God's Presence in Trials
Despite the false accusation and imprisonment, God's presence with Joseph (Genesis 39:21) reassures believers of His faithfulness during trials.

Fleeing from Sin
Joseph's immediate action to flee from temptation is a practical example for believers to avoid compromising situations.

Trusting God's Sovereignty
Joseph's account encourages believers to trust in God's overarching plan, even when circumstances seem unjust or difficult.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to Potiphar's wife's advances demonstrate his commitment to God, and how can we apply this in our own lives when facing temptation?

2. In what ways does Joseph's experience in Genesis 39:15 reflect the principle found in 1 Corinthians 6:18 about fleeing from sexual immorality?

3. How can we find comfort in knowing that God is with us during trials, as He was with Joseph, and what other scriptures reinforce this truth?

4. What are some practical steps we can take to maintain our integrity in situations where we might face false accusations or misunderstandings?

5. How does Joseph's account encourage us to trust in God's sovereignty, and what other biblical examples can we draw from to strengthen our faith in difficult times?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 39:7-20
Provides the broader context of Joseph's temptation and false accusation, highlighting his moral integrity and the resulting consequences.

Proverbs 6:32-33
Discusses the consequences of adultery, which Potiphar's wife attempts to engage in, contrasting Joseph's righteous behavior.

1 Corinthians 6:18
Advises believers to flee from sexual immorality, paralleling Joseph's actions in this account.

Psalm 105:17-19
Reflects on Joseph's trials and God's purpose in them, offering a broader theological perspective on his suffering and faithfulness.