Genesis 39:6 - John Trapp Complete Commentary

Bible Comments

And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was [a] goodly [person], and well favoured.

Ver. 6. And he knew not aught he had, &c.] Some expound this of Joseph, that he took nothing for all his pains, but the food he ate; did not feather his own nest, as many in his place would have done; nor embezzle his master's goods committed to his trust. But without doubt the other is the better sense: Potiphar took what was provided for him, and cared for no more. This is few men's happiness; for usually the master is the greatest servant in the house.

And Joseph was a goodly person.] But nothing so goodly on the outside as on the inside. a His brethren had stript him of his coat, but could not disrobe him of his graces. Still he retained his piety and fear of God, his integrity and faithfulness toward his master, his chastity and modesty toward his mistress, his spiritual prudence and watchfulness over himself. How stoutly did he resist the devil, despise the world, subdue the flesh! Many "archers shot at him, but his bow abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made firm by the hands of the mighty God of Jacob." Gen 49:23-24 Of bodily beauty, See Trapp on " Gen 6:2 "

a Pulchrior in luce cordis quam facie corporis.

Genesis 39:6

6 And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured.