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Genesis 39:10 - Yosef resists temptation daily.

Genesis 39:10 - בראשית 39:10

Hebrew Text

וַיְהִי כְּדַבְּרָהּ אֶל־יוֹסֵף יוֹם יוֹם וְלֹא־שָׁמַע אֵלֶיהָ לִשְׁכַּב אֶצְלָהּ לִהְיוֹת עִמָּהּ׃

English Translation

And it came to pass, as she spoke to Yosef day by day, that he hearkened not to her, to lie by her, or to be with her.

Transliteration

Vayehi k'dabeirah el-Yosef yom yom velo-shama eileha lishkav etzlah lihyot imah.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיְהִ֕י כְּדַבְּרָ֥הּ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֖ף י֣וֹם <small>׀</small> י֑וֹם וְלֹא־שָׁמַ֥ע אֵלֶ֛יהָ לִשְׁכַּ֥ב אֶצְלָ֖הּ לִהְי֥וֹת עִמָּֽהּ׃
וַיְהִ֕י כְּדַבְּרָ֥הּ אֶל־יוֹסֵ֖ף י֣וֹם ׀ י֑וֹם וְלֹא־שָׁמַ֥ע אֵלֶ֛יהָ לִשְׁכַּ֥ב אֶצְלָ֖הּ לִהְי֥וֹת עִמָּֽהּ׃

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Parasha Commentary

Understanding the Verse in Context

The verse (Bereishit 39:10) describes Yosef's steadfast refusal to succumb to the advances of Potiphar's wife, despite her persistent efforts. This episode is a pivotal moment in Yosef's life, demonstrating his moral strength and commitment to righteousness even in exile.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the phrase "וְלֹא־שָׁמַע אֵלֶיהָ" ("he hearkened not to her") means Yosef did not merely avoid physical sin but also refused to entertain her words or be in her company unnecessarily. Rashi emphasizes that Yosef avoided even the appearance of impropriety, as hinted by the phrase "לִהְיוֹת עִמָּהּ" ("to be with her"). This teaches the importance of distancing oneself from situations that may lead to sin.

Rambam's Perspective (Hilchot Issurei Biah 22:18)

Rambam cites this episode as a model for avoiding yichud (seclusion with a forbidden individual). He derives from Yosef's conduct that one must not only refrain from sin but also avoid circumstances that could lead to temptation. Yosef's refusal "day by day" demonstrates the necessity of constant vigilance in matters of morality.

Midrashic Insights (Bereishit Rabbah 87:7)

The Midrash elaborates that Potiphar's wife pressured Yosef "day by day" with different tactics:

  • She alternated between threats and flattery
  • She attempted to appeal to his loneliness in a foreign land
  • She tried to convince him no one would know

Yet Yosef remained steadfast, illustrating the principle that one must resist temptation regardless of the circumstances.

The Talmud's Analysis (Sotah 36b)

The Talmud states that at the critical moment, Yosef saw the image of his father Yaakov, which strengthened his resolve. This teaches that remembering our sacred lineage and mission can help overcome temptation. The Talmud also notes that this test prepared Yosef for future leadership, as one who can master their desires is fit to guide others.

Chizkuni's Additional Insight

Chizkuni observes that the Torah emphasizes Yosef's daily resistance to show that true righteousness is consistent. Even after repeated attempts, Yosef's commitment did not waver, setting an example of moral perseverance.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sotah 36b
The verse is referenced in the discussion about Joseph's righteousness and his resistance to Potiphar's wife's advances.
📖 Yoma 35b
The verse is cited in the context of praising Joseph's moral strength and self-control.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 39:10 teach us about Joseph's character?
A: Genesis 39:10 highlights Joseph's righteousness and moral strength. Despite Potiphar's wife pressuring him daily, Joseph refused to sin by being with her. Rashi explains that Joseph's refusal was based on his commitment to Torah values, showing his dedication to Hashem even in difficult circumstances.
Q: Why did Joseph refuse Potiphar's wife even though she asked him repeatedly?
A: Joseph refused because he understood that such an act would be a severe sin against Hashem (Genesis 39:9). The Talmud (Sotah 36b) teaches that Joseph saw a vision of his father Jacob at that moment, which strengthened his resolve to avoid sin. This shows the importance of resisting temptation, even when pressured repeatedly.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Joseph's actions in Genesis 39:10?
A: We learn the importance of moral integrity and resisting temptation, no matter how persistent. The Rambam (Hilchot Issurei Biah 22:18) derives from this episode that a person must distance themselves from situations that could lead to sin. Joseph's example teaches us to uphold Torah values even when it's difficult.
Q: How does the phrase 'day by day' in Genesis 39:10 add meaning to the story?
A: The repetition of 'day by day' emphasizes the constant pressure Joseph faced. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 87:6) explains that Potiphar's wife tried different tactics each day - sometimes with threats, sometimes with favors - showing Joseph's unwavering commitment to righteousness despite changing circumstances.
Q: Why is Joseph's refusal in Genesis 39:10 considered so significant in Jewish tradition?
A: Joseph's refusal is significant because he maintained his moral standards in exile, away from his family's influence. The Talmud (Yoma 35b) states that Joseph's merit in resisting temptation was so great that it serves as an eternal example for future generations, especially in situations where one might rationalize giving in to sin.