Potiphar פּוֹטִיפַר
Egyptian official who bought Joseph as a slave
Who is Potiphar in the Bible?
Potiphar was an Egyptian official and captain of Pharaoh's guard who purchased Joseph as a slave after Ishmaelite traders brought him to Egypt (Genesis 37:36, 39:1). Recognizing Joseph's talents and integrity, Potiphar placed him in charge of his entire household and possessions (Genesis 39:1-6). When Potiphar's wife falsely accused Joseph of assault after he refused her seduction, Potiphar believed her and had Joseph imprisoned (Genesis 39:7-20). Though unjustly imprisoned, Joseph remained faithful and God granted him favor even in captivity. Potiphar's role in Joseph's story illustrates the theme of righteousness being tested and preserved through false accusation and injustice.
Biography
Potiphar was an Egyptian official who served as the captain of the guard in the court of Pharaoh. He is first mentioned in Gen.37.36, where he is identified as the man who purchased Joseph, the son of Israel (or 'Jacob'), from the Ishmaelite traders who had brought him to Egypt. Potiphar recognized Joseph's abilities and put him in charge of his household, entrusting him with all his possessions (Gen.39.1-6). However, Potiphar's wife attempted to seduce Joseph, and when he refused her advances, she falsely accused him of trying to assault her. Believing his wife's accusation, Potiphar had Joseph thrown into prison (Gen.39.7-20). Despite this unjust treatment, God was with Joseph and granted him favor, even in prison. The story of Joseph and Potiphar highlights the themes of integrity, faithfulness, and God's providence in the face of adversity.
In Scripture
1 biblical book ; 1 with study contentGenesis 2 verses
- Genesis 37:36
"Meanwhile, the Midianites sold Joseph in Egypt to Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard."
Study Genesis → - Genesis 39:1
"Meanwhile, Joseph had been taken down to Egypt, where an Egyptian named Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh and captain of the guard, bought him from the Ishmaelites who had taken him there."
Study Genesis →
Names & Aliases
| Form | Language | Script |
|---|---|---|
| Named | Hebrew | פּוֹטִיפַר |