Old Testament
Genesis 39:7
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, we see a pivotal moment in Joseph's life while he is serving in the house of Potiphar, an Egyptian official.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
After some time, his master's wife looked at Joseph and said, "Sleep with me."
And it came to pass after these things, that his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a pivotal moment in Joseph's life while he is serving in the house of Potiphar, an Egyptian official. Potiphar's wife, noticing Joseph's good looks and character, attempts to seduce him by asking him to sleep with her. This situation highlights the challenges of temptation and the moral dilemmas that can arise in life. Joseph, a young man of integrity, is faced with a significant test of his values and faithfulness. The request from Potiphar's wife is not just a personal temptation but also a potential threat to Joseph's future and his relationship with God. This moment sets the stage for Joseph's response to temptation, which will reveal his character and commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult. The verse serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining integrity and resisting temptation, especially in situations where one might feel vulnerable or pressured.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 39:7 to your life
This verse encourages us to stand firm in our values when faced with temptation. Just as Joseph had to make a choice, we too must decide how to respond to pressures that challenge our integrity. Seeking strength through faith can help us resist wrongdoing.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 39:7 mean?
Genesis 39:7 describes a moment when Potiphar's wife tries to seduce Joseph, highlighting the theme of temptation. This verse illustrates the moral challenges Joseph faces while serving in Potiphar's house.
What is the significance of Potiphar's wife's actions in Genesis 39:7?
Potiphar's wife's actions represent a test of Joseph's integrity and character. Her attempt to seduce him puts Joseph in a difficult position, showcasing the struggle between temptation and moral values.
What lesson can we learn from Genesis 39:7?
Genesis 39:7 teaches the importance of maintaining integrity when faced with temptation. It encourages individuals to stand firm in their values and resist pressures that challenge their moral beliefs.
How does Genesis 39:7 relate to the theme of integrity?
Genesis 39:7 highlights the theme of integrity by showing Joseph's struggle against temptation. His response to Potiphar's wife's advances reflects his commitment to his values and faithfulness.

The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
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