Genesis 39:20

So Joseph's master took him and had him thrown into the prison where the king's prisoners were confined. While Joseph was there in the prison,

Study Bible

So Joseph’s master took him
Joseph's master, Potiphar, was an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. This indicates a high-ranking position in Egyptian society, suggesting that Potiphar had significant authority and influence. The decision to take Joseph reflects the gravity of the accusation against him, as Potiphar's wife had falsely accused Joseph of attempting to assault her. This action demonstrates the cultural and legal practices of ancient Egypt, where a servant's word held little weight against that of a master's household.

and had him thrown into the prison
The prison mentioned here is likely a part of the complex where Potiphar worked, possibly a military or royal prison. This was not a common jail but a place where political prisoners or those accused of serious crimes against the state were held. The act of throwing Joseph into prison without a trial highlights the lack of legal rights for slaves and foreigners in ancient Egypt. It also sets the stage for God's providential plan, as Joseph's imprisonment becomes a pivotal moment in his life and the history of Israel.

where the king’s prisoners were confined.
This detail indicates that the prison was specifically for those who had offended Pharaoh or were involved in matters of state. It suggests a higher level of security and importance, as these prisoners were directly connected to the king. This setting foreshadows Joseph's future interactions with Pharaoh's officials, the cupbearer and the baker, which will eventually lead to his rise to power. The mention of the king's prisoners also underscores the severity of the charges against Joseph, as he was placed among those who had committed significant offenses.

While Joseph was there in the prison,
Joseph's time in prison is a period of testing and preparation. Despite the injustice he faced, Joseph remained faithful to God, which is a recurring theme in his life. This period of suffering and waiting is reminiscent of other biblical figures who endured hardship before being elevated by God, such as David and Daniel. Joseph's experience in prison also serves as a type of Christ, who was unjustly accused and suffered before being exalted. The narrative emphasizes God's sovereignty and the idea that He can use even the most difficult circumstances for His purposes.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joseph
A Hebrew man, favored son of Jacob, who was sold into slavery by his brothers and ended up in Egypt. He was a servant in Potiphar's house before being unjustly imprisoned.

2. Potiphar
An Egyptian officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard, who purchased Joseph as a slave. He trusted Joseph with his household until his wife falsely accused Joseph of misconduct.

3. Potiphar's Wife
She attempted to seduce Joseph and, upon his refusal, falsely accused him of trying to assault her, leading to Joseph's imprisonment.

4. The Prison
A place where the king’s prisoners were confined. It becomes a significant setting for Joseph's continued faithfulness and God's providence in his life.

5. The King’s Prisoners
These were individuals who had committed offenses against Pharaoh and were confined in the same prison as Joseph, setting the stage for future events in Joseph's life.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Trials
Joseph's imprisonment, though unjust, was part of God's larger plan. Believers can trust that God is sovereign over their circumstances, even when they face injustice or suffering.

Faithfulness in Adversity
Joseph remained faithful to God and his principles despite false accusations and imprisonment. Christians are called to maintain integrity and faithfulness, regardless of their circumstances.

Preparation for Future Purpose
Joseph's time in prison was a period of preparation for his future role in Egypt. God often uses difficult seasons to prepare us for His purposes.

God's Presence in Isolation
Even in prison, God was with Joseph. Believers can find comfort in knowing that God is present with them, even in their most isolated and challenging times.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joseph's response to his unjust imprisonment challenge or inspire you in your own life circumstances?

2. In what ways can you see God's hand at work in Joseph's life, even during his time in prison? How does this encourage you to trust God in your own trials?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced a situation that seemed unfair or unjust. How did you respond, and what might you learn from Joseph's example?

4. How does Joseph's account connect with the broader biblical theme of God using trials for His purposes? Can you think of other biblical figures who experienced similar situations?

5. What practical steps can you take to remain faithful and maintain integrity in your current circumstances, following Joseph's example?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
Provides background on Joseph's journey to Egypt, his dreams, and his brothers' betrayal, setting the stage for his time in Potiphar's house and subsequent imprisonment.

Genesis 41
Details Joseph's rise to power in Egypt, showing how God used his time in prison to position him for leadership.

Psalm 105:17-19
Reflects on Joseph's trials and God's purpose in them, emphasizing God's sovereignty and faithfulness.

Acts 7:9-10
Stephen's speech recounts Joseph's account, highlighting God's presence and favor despite his suffering.