What does Genesis 39:13 mean?
A famous English proverb comes from late-seventeenth-century poet William Congreve, who said, "Heaven has no rage like love to hatred turned, nor hell a fury like a woman scorned." Potiphar's wife has repeatedly offered herself to her husband's young, successful, attractive servant (Genesis 39:1–10). He has steadfastly refused for the sake of honor and morality. Finally, when she had Joseph alone and cornered (Genesis 39:11), she aggressively threw herself at him, grabbing his cloak.Joseph, recognizing the danger of the moment, literally left the article of clothing behind rather than stay in such a compromising position. Rather than accepting such an open, apparently risk-free offer, he left her standing there holding his garment. For a woman likely used to getting whatever she wanted—possibly even the sexual use of her husband's slaves—this is a humiliating rejection. Her emotions for Joseph will turn from lust to vicious revenge. Her slander will put Joseph at risk of being immediately executed (Genesis 39:14).