Genesis 39:7Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

It is stated, "And it came to pass, according to these things." What do these things refer to? Specifically, they pertain to the moment when authority was bestowed upon him over the entire household, receiving this honor from his master. "And the wife of his master cast her eyes upon Joseph." What boldness from a woman devoid of restraint! She disregarded her status as the lady of the house and the fact that he was a servant; instead, driven by her fascination with his striking appearance and consumed by the temptation of the adversary, she sought to ensnare the young man. With this wicked intent in her heart, she only looked for an opportunity and seclusion to fulfill her sinful desire.

The Scriptures speak of another Joseph, the one who was pursued by the brazen wife. Her affection for him was not rooted in pure intentions but rather in twisted desires, failing to appreciate his inner, spiritual goodness. She was captivated by his physical form, yet disregardful of the purity of his spirit. She yearned for a servant, her husband’s slave, but she did not honor the loyalty he showed to his master. Do you think her feelings were for him, or was it merely a reflection of her own self-interest? I would argue it was neither love for him nor true love for herself. If she truly cared for him, why would she seek to bring about his ruin? If she valued herself, why would she wish for her own downfall? Thus, her passion was not for him or for her own well-being. She was consumed by the venom of lust rather than the flame of genuine love.

His mistress was deeply attracted to Joseph and urged him to remain with her. As she beheld Joseph, who was adorned with beauty and wisdom, she found herself vulnerable to feelings of love and dark desire. She longed to draw this virtuous young man, a beacon of purity, into the depths of immorality. Employing countless schemes and lavish garments, she sought to entice him; she changed her attire frequently, enhanced her appearance, and adorned herself with gold. With seductive glances and wicked smiles, she sought to ensnare the innocent gaze of the righteous man, believing that such methods would easily capture the heart of the saint.

When a woman casts a lustful gaze, the responsibility lies solely with the one who harbors the sinful intent, not with the individual who wishes to be free from such scrutiny. The act of being gazed upon carries no blame. The ability to avoid being looked at was beyond the control of the servant; it was the duty of the husband to be vigilant regarding his wife's gaze. Lacking this vigilance, Joseph perceived her glances as a reflection of her virtue rather than as invitations to folly. Thus, men should remain aware of women's looks, for even those who wish to avoid being loved can find themselves the objects of deep affection. Joseph, indeed, was loved ardently, despite his disdain for the admirer.

Although the Egyptian woman skillfully and deceitfully wove the nets of desire, setting traps to ensnare the young man, she captivated his gaze with her alluring poses, enticed his ears with her seductive words, and tempted his sense of smell with sweet fragrances. She pleased his sense of touch by holding him close and tantalized his palate before unleashing her traps, perhaps offering delights not only as a gesture of affection for a lover but also out of concern for a stranger. She sought to draw him in with promises of making him her lord, yet she ultimately failed to ensnare him.

The allure of his beauty drew the attention of Pentephrius' spouse. Consumed by desire, she boldly expressed her longing to the young man.