Genesis 39:9Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

In an effort to deliver a significant challenge, he recalls the devotion her husband holds for her, urging her not to betray her spouse. He asserts, "You are therefore not in my control," acknowledging her role as his wife. He questions, "If you are his wife, how could I commit this great evil and sin before God?" As she searched for a moment of solitude with him, attempting to remain hidden from her husband and the other household members, he declares, "How can I commit this wickedness and sin in the sight of God?" What are your thoughts? Although one may think they can conceal their actions from others, they cannot evade the gaze of the Omniscient. It is Him alone whom we must revere, fear, and tremble, lest we engage in sin before Him.

It is possible that you may face temptation in a particular manner: an immodest woman might develop feelings for you, seek you out in solitude, and attempt to coerce you into an embrace. Should you refuse her advances, she may threaten you with retribution based on false accusations. This is akin to the actions of the false witnesses against Susanna, as well as the enticements brought forth by Potiphar’s wife towards Joseph. However, consider the One whom both Susanna and Joseph held in regard. Does the absence of human witnesses imply that God is not present? It was the gaze of the Lord, who was always with Joseph, that he sought not to offend. Rather than succumb to the desires of an immodest woman, Joseph resisted temptation and maintained his purity. This truth is evident in the stories of both Susanna and Joseph.

In a manner similar to Joseph, who triumphed over sin in the throne room and was rewarded with a glorious crown for his conquest over his Egyptian captor, our Lord, the Redeemer of our souls, descended into the depths of hell. With His mighty hand, He shattered the grip of the most dreadful and formidable oppressor.

Joseph exemplified true humility despite his noble lineage, displaying obedience and a wealth of virtues. He was adept in humility, even in a position where he had both a seller and a buyer, addressing him as master. Observe how he expressed his humble nature: "My lord knows nothing in the house with me, and has given all that he has into my hands; I am no more in this house; and he has forbidden me nothing but thee, because thou art his wife: how shall I do this great evil, and sin before the Lord?" (Gen. 39:8-9). His words radiate humility and purity; he honored his master in gratitude, recognizing the deep sinfulness in compromising his integrity through an unholy act.

I perceive a notable distinction between the identities of Susanna and Joseph, which many may recognize. It is essential to clarify these differences even when they seem alike, not to prevent wives from sharing in the commendable qualities attributed to men, but to ensure that anyone reading the Holy Scriptures, with careful observation and diligence, does not overlook subtle distinctions in the apparent similarities. Indeed, among those who may not fully comprehend the matter and do not thoroughly examine the underlying reasons, one might mistakenly claim that Susanna acted in the same manner as Joseph.

He endeavors to uplift the woman who is spiritually blind, moving her from despair to hope, and to steer her away from her wrongdoing through an appeal to her dignity: I am no longer within this dwelling, and so forth; additionally, he reminds her of the obligations of marriage: for you are his spouse; ultimately, he invokes the seriousness of the law and the sanctity of God’s presence: how could I commit such a great wickedness and sin against God?