Potiphar
Overview
- Testament: Old
- Role: Egyptian official; captain of Pharaoh’s guard; Joseph’s master in Egypt
- Key Passages: Genesis 39:1–20
- Associated Book: Genesis
Summary
Potiphar is the Egyptian officer — “captain of the guard” — who purchases Joseph from the Ishmaelite traders. He recognizes that the LORD is with Joseph and gives him oversight of his entire household. Potiphar’s wife attempts to seduce Joseph, and when he refuses, she falsely accuses him of assault. Potiphar has Joseph imprisoned — though the text notes his anger, the relatively mild punishment (imprisonment rather than execution) may indicate some lingering doubt about his wife’s accusation. Potiphar is a foil to the LORD’s faithfulness: even when human power unjustly condemns, God is working through the injustice toward a greater purpose.
Cross-References
- Joseph — his slave; the LORD was with Joseph in Potiphar’s house
- Joseph in Egypt — the event covering this period
- Egypt — the setting; Potiphar is a royal officer in Pharaoh’s court