Potiphar’s story is told in Genesis 37:36; 39:1-20
Potiphar: A Powerful Man in Joseph’s Story
When we think of Joseph’s story in the Bible, we often focus on his dreams, his colorful coat, or how he rose to power in Egypt. But there’s another character who played an important role in Joseph’s journey—Potiphar.
Potiphar isn’t a major character, but his choices had a big impact on Joseph’s life. Let’s take a closer look at who Potiphar was and what we can learn from him.
Who Was Potiphar?
Potiphar was a powerful man in Egypt. The Bible says he was the captain of the guard for Pharaoh, the king of Egypt (Genesis 39:1). That means he was an important official—someone trusted with serious responsibilities, like protecting the king and running his household.
When Joseph was sold into slavery by his brothers, it was Potiphar who bought Joseph and brought him to live and work in his home.
Potiphar’s Relationship with Joseph
Even though Joseph was a slave in a new country, something stood out about him—God was with him. Everything Joseph did turned out well, and Potiphar noticed. He saw that Joseph was hardworking, honest, and wise.
So Potiphar gave Joseph more and more responsibility until he was in charge of everything in Potiphar’s household. Because of Joseph, Potiphar’s home and property were blessed. Things were going well for both of them.
The Trouble with Potiphar’s Wife
But then, something happened that changed everything.
Potiphar’s wife tried to get Joseph to do something wrong. Joseph refused because he didn’t want to sin against God or betray his master’s trust. But she didn’t take rejection well. She falsely accused Joseph of attacking her.
When Potiphar heard the accusation, he was very angry. He threw Joseph into prison—even though Joseph hadn’t done anything wrong.
The Bible doesn’t say exactly what Potiphar was thinking. Maybe he believed his wife completely. Or maybe he had doubts but felt pressured to act. Whatever the case, Joseph ended up in prison because of it.
What Can We Learn from Potiphar?
Even though Potiphar wasn’t a follower of God like Joseph, his actions still teach us a few important lessons:
- Leadership comes with tough choices. Potiphar had to decide who to trust, and that decision affected someone else’s future.
- The people around us matter. Potiphar’s household was blessed because of Joseph. Sometimes, having the right people in your life makes all the difference.
- God can work through anyone. Potiphar was not part of God’s chosen people, but God still used him as part of Joseph’s bigger story.
- Decisions have impact. Even if Potiphar didn’t realize it, his choices changed the course of Joseph’s life—and helped move God’s plan forward.
Final Thoughts
Potiphar might not be the hero or the villain in Joseph’s story—but he played a key role. He gave Joseph an opportunity to grow and lead. Later, his decision to put Joseph in prison opened the door for Joseph to meet the king of Egypt, which eventually led to Joseph saving many lives.
God can use every part of our story—even the hard or confusing parts—to bring about something good.
Reflection question:
Is there a decision you’ve made—or need to make—that could shape someone else’s life for the better?