What does Genesis 39:7 mean?
The previous verse described Joseph's stunning good looks, using the same phrase ascribed to his mother, Rachel (Genesis 29:17). At this point, he is both attractive and highly successful (Genesis 39:3–6). His master, Potiphar, is the captain of the guard for the ruler of Egypt (Genesis 39:1). Joseph's attributes will now gain him more than respect and attention: they will inspire offers of temptation.Potiphar's wife eventually took notice of Joseph, and has offered herself to him, sexually. It's hard to overstate what a terrible position this put Joseph in. First, as a slave, Joseph would be expected to obey his master's wife in nearly all things. To refuse her instructions could get him in serious trouble. Of course, the command in question would be an outright betrayal of his master, and likely punishable by death. How would Joseph respond?