Genesis 39:22Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

He bestowed favor upon him. Indeed, no one is more fortunate than the individual who receives grace from on high. The warden of the prison entrusted all the inmates to Joseph’s care. This reflects how the prison official surrenders his authority, grants him independence, and places all the prisoners under his jurisdiction.

He also gained authority over the 'prison,' as mentioned. The saints, in their toil, extended themselves, for the grace of God brought relief to those who labored the hardest. As I previously noted, Joseph found great favor with the prison keeper.

This was intended so that before Him to Whom the heavens are subject in their celestial forms—such as the sun, stars, and moon (cf. Gen. 37:9-10)—as well as the earth represented through sheaves (cf. Gen. 37:6-8), and even the realm of the dead in captivity, that is, before our Joseph-Christ, every knee in heaven, on earth, and in the depths should be compelled to kneel (Phlp. 2:10; Is. 45:23; Rom. 14:11).

The Lord who selected Joseph from his early years, the Lord who supported him during his time in captivity and while in the service of Pentephrius, did not forsake him in prison. Instead, He granted the young inmate authority over the entire prison and all its inhabitants, just as Pentephrius placed complete confidence in Joseph's stewardship.