Genesis 40:4Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The captain of the guard took them in and assigned them to Joseph. Instead of regarding him merely as an inmate, he recognized him as someone who could assist in the care of others, or more aptly, as one capable of alleviating the suffering of the detainees. It is noted that he “set him to them.” What does this imply? It signifies that he offered them solace, uplifted their spirits, inspired them, and helped them from succumbing to despair.

The commander of the guards placed Joseph in their custody. There is a debate about whether Potiphar should be identified as the commander of the guards in this context. Some argue against this, suggesting that Joseph was under Potiphar's displeasure; however, this captain appeared to have trust in him. It is possible that Joseph retained Potiphar's favor even within prison, though perhaps not without suspicion. Alternatively, the dignity of Potiphar’s household may have obligated him to maintain Joseph's imprisonment. Regarding the duration, the Hebrew term ימים (days) frequently refers to a year (see 1 Samuel 1:3, 7; Exodus 13:10; Leviticus 25:29; Judges 17:10).