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Book of Genesis - Chapter 39 - Verse 11

39:11
And it came to pass about this time, that Joseph went into the house to do his business; and there was none of the men of the house there within.

Meaning

When Joseph went into the house to do his business and found that none of the men of the house were there, it is believed to be a pivotal moment in the story of Joseph. This verse from Genesis 39:11 signifies the beginning of a series of events that will lead Joseph to his rise to power in Egypt. Joseph, a young Hebrew man sold into slavery by his brothers, finds himself in the house of Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh. Despite facing many challenges and temptations, Joseph remains faithful to his beliefs and values. This particular moment reflects Joseph's determination to uphold his integrity even when no one is watching. It sets the stage for future events in which Joseph's character and faithfulness will be tested and ultimately rewarded.

Theological Overview

Within the theological interpretation of the verse from Genesis, where Joseph goes into the house to do his business and finds none of the men of the house there, scholars explore the significance of Joseph's actions and the absence of the men. Some theologians suggest that Joseph going into the house represents his obedience and dedication to his duties, even in the absence of supervision. This could reflect Joseph's integrity and excellence in all that he does, as he carries out his responsibilities diligently. The absence of the men in the house could also be seen as foreshadowing further events in Joseph's life, such as his brothers' betrayal and his eventual rise to power in Egypt. Word studies on phrases like "to do his business" can reveal insights into the specific tasks or duties Joseph was performing, shedding light on the practical aspects of daily life in ancient times and bringing depth to our understanding of the biblical narrative.

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