Potiphar’s wife appears in Genesis 39, during the account of Joseph’s time in Egypt. Joseph, sold into slavery by his brothers, was purchased by Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard. The Lord was with Joseph, and he prospered in Potiphar’s house, eventually being entrusted with all his master’s possessions (Genesis 39:1–6).
Potiphar’s wife became infatuated with Joseph and repeatedly attempted to seduce him, saying, “Lie with me” (Genesis 39:7). Joseph consistently refused, declaring, “How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9). His resistance was not just moral but spiritual, recognizing that adultery would be a sin against both God and Potiphar.
One day, she grabbed him by his garment, demanding he lie with her. Joseph fled, leaving his garment in her hand (Genesis 39:12). Enraged by rejection, she falsely accused Joseph of attempted assault, using his abandoned garment as supposed evidence (Genesis 39:14–18).
Potiphar, upon hearing the accusation, had Joseph thrown into prison (Genesis 39:20). Yet even there, the Lord was with Joseph and showed him mercy, eventually raising him to prominence in Egypt.
Potiphar’s wife is remembered as a symbol of temptation and false accusation. Her actions led to suffering for an innocent man, yet they also served God’s larger purpose of exalting Joseph and preserving the future of Israel during famine.
Her role teaches the danger of unrestrained desire, the consequences of false witness, and the virtue of fleeing temptation. Joseph’s integrity stands in stark contrast to her deceit, making his example a pattern for righteousness under pressure.
