December 9, 2025 • 23 mins
# 47 - Joseph: The Slave - In this episode of The Chosen People we discover Joseph's journey from betrayal to service in Potiphar's house, a tale of resilience and divine favor. This episode unravels how faith and integrity transform even the darkest circumstances into a path of hope and purpose.
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Episode 47 of The Chosen People is inspired by the Book of Genesis.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by Matthew 20:26, “but whoever desires to become great among you shall be your servant.”
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Previously on the chosen people.
Speaker 2 (00:04):
Oh, I had this spectacular dream. We were binding sheaves
in the field, and my sheaf arose and stood upright,
and and then your sheaves gathered around it and bowed
down to my sheaf.
Speaker 3 (00:20):
So are you to rule over us? Joseph.
Speaker 1 (00:25):
Joseph's dreams, once a source of personal pride, had become
a point of contention among his family. His brother's hearts
grew colder, their patients thinner.
Speaker 3 (00:36):
The dreamer is here.
Speaker 1 (00:39):
His brother's pounced on him, tearing the coat right off
his body. Their kicks seemed endless. Joseph could feel his
ribs cracking under the pressure of their blows.
Speaker 4 (00:49):
No stop, Some would help help help me.
Speaker 1 (00:54):
Joseph lay there helplessly. His brothers were filled with spite.
They took his limbs open, mangled body, and threw him
into an empty pit. Joseph tumbled down fifteen feet, hitting
the cold dirt below.
Speaker 3 (01:09):
Why don't we sell him? There are spice merchants a
few yards from the town entrance. I happen to know
that they are slave traders. Joseph is a strong young man.
They would pay us a handsome sum of money for him.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
Joseph's cries for help were choked by the tight rope.
Tears filled his eyes, his heart heavy with betrayal. The
sun said, the stars taking its place. As Joseph was
taken towards Egypt, a slave's fate awaiting him. He kept
his gaze fixed south toward Canaan, the land he was
(01:49):
leaving behind, the home that had betrayed him.
Speaker 4 (01:54):
God, what have I done to deserve this?
Speaker 3 (02:03):
Get up, slave, We're here.
Speaker 1 (02:07):
Joseph stirred, his body, aching from days spent tid to
the back of a camel. He blinked against the brightness,
the slender silhouette of the spice trader looming over him.
With effort, he propped himself up, the cold ground, taking
its toll. For over a week he had marched toward Egypt,
(02:29):
the scorching Eastern sun leaving scars on his back. His
once muscular frame was deteriorating from lack of food. Groaning,
Joseph rose to his feet, his legs trembling and bleeding
from saws formed by the hot desert sand. The slave
trader yanked on the rope around his neck, the coarse
(02:50):
fibers rubbing his skin. Roar making each step a torment.
As they neared Egypt, the desolate desert gave way to
a lush and throat diving city. The gates towered higher
than the hills of Canaan, and the architecture was more
elaborate than anything Joseph had ever seen. To his left,
prized horses were being bartered on the outskirts of the
(03:13):
market place. Deeper into the city, the bustling economy of
Egypt unfolded before his eyes. Exotic animals whose strange produce
laced the marketplace. Despite the clamor, the people were elegant,
even the merchants, carrying themselves with a regal bearing stories
from his father, had painted pictures of Egypt, but none
(03:36):
matched the vibrant reality now before him. It was a
world apart from his own. The small caravan came to
a halt. Joseph captors tied him to a post alongside
the canals and entered a small tent. Joseph looked around,
contemplating escape. His studies had given him a few words
in Egyptian, and he overheard the slave trader bartering inside
(04:00):
he was about to be sold. Frantic, Joseph began rubbing
the ropes around his wrists against the top of the post.
Desperation fueled his efforts as he tugged and pulled with
his teeth, trying to rip free from his bonds. Glancing
at the tent, he saw the shadows of the men standing.
An idea sparked as he noticed the camel tied to
(04:22):
the same post. Using what little slack he had, Joseph
picked up a small reed lying near by. With precision,
he struck the camel on the ramp, startled. The camel
bolted forward, pulling the wooden past out of the ground. Joseph,
still bound, ran for his life, using the commotion to
his advantage. The slave trader and the buyer burst out
(04:44):
of the tent and saw Joseph.
Speaker 5 (04:46):
Running stop him.
Speaker 1 (04:48):
Joseph's breath came heavy and labored, his body weak from
days without sufficient water or food. His legs burned as
he raced through the streets, glancing back to see guards
in pursuit. To his left, he spotted a large hole
in the stone wall.
Speaker 4 (05:04):
They can't fit in there, but I can.
Speaker 1 (05:06):
With a swift pivot, Joseph leaped for the opening, squeezing
through without a scratch.
Speaker 3 (05:12):
And losing the guards.
Speaker 1 (05:13):
Breathless, he paused to assess his surroundings. To his right
was a well. To his left was a small pool
where Egyptian women played with their children. Trying to appear inconspicuous,
Joseph waited for the right moment, then dashed to the well.
He leaned over the edge, lapping water with desperate gumps.
Joseph celebrated for a brief moment. He hadn't had water
(05:37):
in over a day. However, his joy was short lived,
as his face was dipped into the well. He could
feel a hand on the back of his head, forcing
it deeper into the water. Joseph kicked and yelled, but
it was no use. The man's hands were set firmly
over his neck and head, keeping him down. Bubbles formed
from his desperate cries for help. Afterwards seemed like an eternity.
(06:01):
Joseph's squirms became less animated as he slowly began to
lose oxygen as his eyes began to grow dim. He
was released from the winter and thrown onto the ground.
Joseph coughed up water on impact and cooled over, desperately
trying to catch his breath before he could compose himself.
He was kicked in the woods. Joseph lay there holding
(06:24):
his side, questioning his decision to.
Speaker 4 (06:26):
Run the sweather kill me.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
Looking up, he saw his captor, a tall, older man,
broad shouldered and imposing. He wore an immaculate breastplate and
a head dress signifying authority. Clean shaven like most Egyptians,
he exuded power. The man dragged Joseph back to the
tent where the slave trader was securing his camel. The
(06:50):
trader sneered at Joseph, but quickly bowed when he saw
his captor.
Speaker 5 (06:55):
My lord, forgive me the Hebrew rare escaped as I
was bartering to sell him. You may kill him if
you like, or I can do it myself.
Speaker 1 (07:07):
The Ishmaelit was trembling with fear. Whoever this man was,
he was clearly very powerful. The man looked down at Joseph.
His expression was cold and impassive. Joseph couldn't get a
good read on how much trouble he was in. The
man gestured to the slave trader.
Speaker 3 (07:26):
I will buy him off you you what.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
Joseph was just as surprised as the Ishmaelite. They looked
up at the man, unable to understand his reasoning, I.
Speaker 3 (07:39):
Will give you fifteen shekels of silver for him.
Speaker 1 (07:43):
The trader hesitated, five shekels less than what he paid,
but fear overrode his greed.
Speaker 6 (07:50):
H as you wish Lord part of her, please also
accept some turmeric freshly ground from the riverlands south of
the Nile.
Speaker 1 (08:02):
Potifa handed over the silver without another word, signaling his
servant to bring his horse. The servant took the rope
attached to Joseph's wrists, and Potiphar mounted his horse, trotting
away with a small entourage of guards.
Speaker 4 (08:17):
I am net, the keeper of the Lord Potiphar's slaves.
Speaker 3 (08:20):
Come, let's get you cleaned up.
Speaker 4 (08:23):
I can't have you muddying up the lord Captain's home.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
Joseph could only make out a few Egyptian words. He
nodded to the servant and replied to the best of
his ability. The two walked side by side, with a
small entourage of guards walking behind them. Ned spoke slowly
and patiently to Joseph, explaining who had just brought him.
From what Joseph could understand, Potipha was the captain of
(08:48):
Pharaoh's royal guard and had authority over the city's security.
As they approached Potiphar's state, Joseph marveled at the lush
vineyard to the left and the stables filled with prized
horses to the right. The grandeur of the home surpassed
anything he had imagined. They led him to the slave quarters,
(09:10):
where he was stripped, shaven and bathed. Wrapped in Egyptian linen.
He was given stale bread and wine, the first real
meal in over a week. He ate voraciously. Afterward, Joseph
was taken to Potiphar's home. Ivory pillars supported a roof
over the large courtyard, where Potipha sat at his desk,
(09:31):
fanned by palm fronds. Behind him, bunched his wife, Younger, beautiful,
and adorned with fine jewelry. Joseph stood with his head bowed,
without looking up from his work.
Speaker 3 (09:45):
Potipha spoke, as I witnessed in the marketplace, you were
able to run fast. Not only this, but you were
clever enough to escape my guards. While I would not
recommend you running away again, your talents may prove useful
to me. You will work in the vineyards and in
my home. You will do your work fast and with
(10:05):
great care. You will queen, you will cook, and you
will do anything my servants ask of you. If you
do not, I will kill or sell you. It is
as simple as that.
Speaker 1 (10:18):
Joseph understood the gravity of Potiphar's words. He was no
longer a favored son, but a slave. Yet he was
determined to be the best slave and to work with
diligence and humility. That night, Joseph lay awake. He peered
(10:40):
through the window of the slave's quarters, staring up at
the sky. The white noise of heavy snores and deep
murmuring reminded him of his brothers. He surveyed the stars,
searching for answers. He wondered if they were the same
stars he would gaze upon in Canaan, Canaan. To Joseph,
(11:01):
it seemed as far away as the stars themselves. He
thought about his mother and father. He longed to hug
them again. He closed his eyes and tried to remember
the smell of fresh stew. He remembered running his hands
through the ripe grain fields beside the rolling hills. He
remembered the warm embrace of his colorful coat. Then Joseph
(11:25):
remembered his brothers. He could see their sneers of jealousy
and hatred in his mind's eye. His heart ached over
what had happened. He hated them for what they had done.
He clenched his fist and gritted his teeth, imagining what
he would do if he saw them again. Yet the
anger soon gave way to sorrow. Joseph turned over in
(11:48):
his cot and wept silently. He allowed tears to flow
from his face, then finally sighed to the heavens again,
What's this your plan?
Speaker 4 (11:59):
Why give me tree of prosperity only to throw me
away like this?
Speaker 1 (12:04):
He pondered his situation, realizing he was in the home
of a powerful man in the most powerful nation. Perhaps
his dreams were not completely lost. Joseph looked up again
to Heaven. The clouds began rolling in with the breeze
slightly covering the moon.
Speaker 4 (12:22):
Please give me favor as you did Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Speaker 1 (12:28):
Despite his circumstances, a deep optimism welled within him. He
sensed God's protection and provision. Releasing the tension in his fists,
he breathed deeply and drifted to sleep. Joseph arose early
that morning before the other slaves. The sun had not
(12:51):
yet risen, and the coolness of mourning was a refreshing
chain from the stuffy room where the slaves were kept.
He greeted the guards outside the door and gestured to
the water basin with rags soaking in them. They nodded
and allowed Joseph to get an early start on his work.
Joseph took the basin into the courtyard and began to
(13:12):
scrub the floors. He paid attention to every detail of
the floors. He scrubbed the cracks, polishing off every square
inch of the courtyard. After he was done, Joseph climbed
the ivory pillars, reaching up to clean off the cobwebs
that had formed in the corners. Then Joseph took some
oil from the palm roots and rubbed down Potiphar's desk.
(13:35):
He polished the wood and paid close attention to sanding
down any rough edges. Joseph had finally finished as the
sun rose, Potiphar arose from his chambers, fully dressed, groomed,
and prepared for his day. Joseph was wringing out his
rags when Potipha entered the courtyard. He scanned the newly
(13:55):
polished area, then looked down at Joseph. Joseph bowed, picked
up the empty basin, and returned to the slaves quarters.
He wanted to return to the others before they could
see what he had done. Joseph had learned his lesson
from what had happened with his brothers. If he was
going to gain favor from Potiphar, it couldn't be at
(14:16):
the expense of the others. He had to be humble, diligent,
and kind. Joseph joined the other slaves as they made
their way down to the vineyard. Potipha sat at his
desk and ran his hands across the wood. He then
looked up to see Joseph leaving with the other slaves,
a slight smile dimly lit in his eyes. Weeks passed,
(14:41):
and Joseph continued to go above and beyond his orders.
When the other slaves returned for their meal, Joseph remained
in the vineyard, keeping a tally of the vines whose
branches produced more fruit. He kept track of their cycles
and reported them to the vine dresser. Before the sun rose,
while the other slaves slept, Joseph arose to scrub and
(15:04):
organize Potiphar's courtyard. He pruned the plants, polished the tile,
and buffed his desk. All the while he would pray
to his God, the god of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
He would pray for wisdom to learn the culture, endurance
to work harder than the others, and humility to pursue
(15:24):
it all with a pure heart. As Joseph worked, he
grew closer and closer to the God of his forefathers.
In his heart grew a deep love for his Lord.
Although he worked under Potiphar, he recognized that it was
God under whom he worked, and God granted Joseph favor
in everything that he did. Potiphar noticed Joseph's talents, including
(15:49):
his organization, i for detail, and work ethic. Yet another
pair of eyes was on Joseph. Potiphar's wife would often
stroll beside the vineyard, catching glimpses of Joseph working under
the hot sun. However, Joseph's eyes never met hers. He
was intent on working and gaining favor with God and man.
(16:11):
Three years passed and Joseph grew stronger and filled with
the spirit of God. He was diligent in learning the
language and eventually was promoted to oversee the slaves alongside
net Joseph had shown an aptitude for planning the vineyard's
harvest depending on seasons. He paid close attention to the weather,
(16:33):
its patents, and the demand for wine in the market place.
Joseph became beloved amongst the slaves, and the members of
Potiphar's house felt comfortable relying on him for important tasks.
It was evident to the entire household of Potiphar that
God had blessed Joseph. Joseph was now twenty years old.
His once prideful and arrogant demeanor had been replaced with
(16:57):
a strong and humble presence. He carried married himself as
someone who was capable but willing to serve instead of
be served. Joseph arose early, as was his ritual. His
footsteps echoed through the halls of Potiphar's courtyard. He scrubbed, scoured,
(17:17):
and polished, whistling a Hebrew lullaby his mother used to sing.
It had become a ritual for Joseph, a meditation of humility.
Yet it was interrupted by the regal footsteps of another.
Joseph stood at attention as Potiphar entered the courtyard. He
rubbed his hand against his desk, feeling its newly oiled surface.
Speaker 3 (17:40):
You have been here before sunrise every morning since you've arrived.
At first, I thought you may be a thief, getting
acquainted with the house before the others were awake. A
year past, and I thought you to be an opportunist,
hoping to gain favor with the others. But now, after
(18:03):
three years, I've come to be surprised by your relentlessness.
Why do you do this You were never commanded to
do so.
Speaker 4 (18:14):
I live to serve Lord Potiphar.
Speaker 3 (18:16):
Do not give me pleasantry. Slave. I've asked you an
honest question. You will respond with an honest answer.
Speaker 1 (18:24):
Joseph paused, realizing this was the first time Potiphar had
spoken to him since he arrived.
Speaker 4 (18:31):
If I am to be a slave, I'd like to
be the best.
Speaker 3 (18:35):
So it's ambition that drives you.
Speaker 4 (18:37):
No, my lord, not ambition contrition. I was once the
most favored son of my household. I was gifted with
a high status in my father's house despite being the youngest.
I am sad to say I squandered my position. My
arrogance and laziness led my brothers to jealousy. It led
(18:59):
me here now as a slave. God has granted me
the chance to change my heart, a chance to do
things right.
Speaker 3 (19:07):
Which God do you worship?
Speaker 4 (19:09):
I worshiped the One True God Master. He has given
me undeserved favor, favor.
Speaker 3 (19:16):
You're a slave, although there is no denying it, said Joseph,
Your God has clearly blessed you in some way. Perhaps
this God of slaves can do something for me too.
Speaker 1 (19:29):
The captain walked down the steps towards the vineyard and
gestured for Joseph to follow him. Joseph walked beside him.
Potipher plucked some grapes from the vines and began to eat.
He pointed towards the rising sun. Its golden beams showered
light over the dark grape leaves. The contrast was brilliant
(19:50):
to behold light from above and darkness from below.
Speaker 3 (19:55):
This is the God that I worshiped, Joseph a Munrah.
He is the of life, power, and fertility of the earth.
He has blessed me with unprecedented power and influence. Pharaoh
himself listens to me, and it is all because of Ah. However,
(20:15):
since you have been here, our crops have increased, Our
slaves are in higher spirits. Than the livestock are healthier.
Perhaps the favor your God brings can match the might
of ah Hm. Joseph, I would like to appoint you
as my household over here. Everything I own, everyone who
(20:39):
lives here, and all the crops I grow will be
under your care.
Speaker 1 (20:45):
Joseph was speechless. It was an honor for Potiphar to
even speak with him. Now he was being appointed as
the manager of his entire estate. Joseph fell to his
knees and spread out his hands.
Speaker 4 (20:58):
You honor me with this responsibility. May God bless you
for your kindness towards me. I will not let you down.
Speaker 3 (21:05):
Hah. Come here, It is much for you to learn.
If you're going to be the governor of my home,
you must carry yourself with authority.
Speaker 1 (21:14):
Potiphar led him back through the courtyard and into his chambers.
There was a large wooden chest sitting at the foot
of his bed. He reached inside and pulled out a
gold chain. At the center was a sapphire the size
of a marble. Potifa held it up to Joseph, then
placed it around his neck. It hung on his bare chest.
(21:37):
The sapphire was a bright contrast to Joseph's tanned skin.
Speaker 3 (21:42):
Joseph, I give you all of my authority over this hole.
You may command my servants, the slaves, and every worker
within my estate as you please.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
The tall captain froze mid thought and looked out the
door into the courtyard and her maid servants were preparing
to bathe in the paws. Potiphar looked at Joseph intently,
eyes revealing some deep wounds and desires.
Speaker 3 (22:10):
However, you may, under no circumstances, order my wife or
her maid's silence.
Speaker 1 (22:17):
Joseph nodded in agreement, giving a slight bow. Potiphar took
him for an early meal, and the two discussed how
the inner workings of the estate could be managed better.
Potiphar asked questions, praised Joseph's answers, and responded with more questions.
Joseph was surprised at how humble of a man Potiphar
(22:38):
truly was. For years, he had judged him as an
unapproachable ruler, someone stuck in his ways and cold. However,
under the overhang's cool shade, Joseph could relate to Potiphar
and speak freely. For the first time in three years,
he no longer felt like a slave. He felt once
(22:59):
again the loving approval of a father. This Prey dot
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(23:21):
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Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton,
Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc,
Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and Mitch Leshinsky. Music by
Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and
(23:45):
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Previously on the chosen people.
Speaker 2 (00:04):
Oh, I had this spectacular dream. We were binding sheaves
in the field, and my sheaf arose and stood upright,
and and then your sheaves gathered around it and bowed
down to my sheaf.
Speaker 3 (00:20):
So are you to rule over us? Joseph.
Speaker 1 (00:25):
Joseph's dreams, once a source of personal pride, had become
a point of contention among his family. His brother's hearts
grew colder, their patients thinner.
Speaker 3 (00:36):
The dreamer is here.
Speaker 1 (00:39):
His brother's pounced on him, tearing the coat right off
his body. Their kicks seemed endless. Joseph could feel his
ribs cracking under the pressure of their blows.
Speaker 4 (00:49):
No stop, Some would help help help me.
Speaker 1 (00:54):
Joseph lay there helplessly. His brothers were filled with spite.
They took his limbs open, mangled body, and threw him
into an empty pit. Joseph tumbled down fifteen feet, hitting
the cold dirt below.
Speaker 3 (01:09):
Why don't we sell him? There are spice merchants a
few yards from the town entrance. I happen to know
that they are slave traders. Joseph is a strong young man.
They would pay us a handsome sum of money for him.
Speaker 1 (01:28):
Joseph's cries for help were choked by the tight rope.
Tears filled his eyes, his heart heavy with betrayal. The
sun said, the stars taking its place. As Joseph was
taken towards Egypt, a slave's fate awaiting him. He kept
his gaze fixed south toward Canaan, the land he was
(01:49):
leaving behind, the home that had betrayed him.
Speaker 4 (01:54):
God, what have I done to deserve this?
Speaker 3 (02:03):
Get up, slave, We're here.
Speaker 1 (02:07):
Joseph stirred, his body, aching from days spent tid to
the back of a camel. He blinked against the brightness,
the slender silhouette of the spice trader looming over him.
With effort, he propped himself up, the cold ground, taking
its toll. For over a week he had marched toward Egypt,
(02:29):
the scorching Eastern sun leaving scars on his back. His
once muscular frame was deteriorating from lack of food. Groaning,
Joseph rose to his feet, his legs trembling and bleeding
from saws formed by the hot desert sand. The slave
trader yanked on the rope around his neck, the coarse
(02:50):
fibers rubbing his skin. Roar making each step a torment.
As they neared Egypt, the desolate desert gave way to
a lush and throat diving city. The gates towered higher
than the hills of Canaan, and the architecture was more
elaborate than anything Joseph had ever seen. To his left,
prized horses were being bartered on the outskirts of the
(03:13):
market place. Deeper into the city, the bustling economy of
Egypt unfolded before his eyes. Exotic animals whose strange produce
laced the marketplace. Despite the clamor, the people were elegant,
even the merchants, carrying themselves with a regal bearing stories
from his father, had painted pictures of Egypt, but none
(03:36):
matched the vibrant reality now before him. It was a
world apart from his own. The small caravan came to
a halt. Joseph captors tied him to a post alongside
the canals and entered a small tent. Joseph looked around,
contemplating escape. His studies had given him a few words
in Egyptian, and he overheard the slave trader bartering inside
(04:00):
he was about to be sold. Frantic, Joseph began rubbing
the ropes around his wrists against the top of the post.
Desperation fueled his efforts as he tugged and pulled with
his teeth, trying to rip free from his bonds. Glancing
at the tent, he saw the shadows of the men standing.
An idea sparked as he noticed the camel tied to
(04:22):
the same post. Using what little slack he had, Joseph
picked up a small reed lying near by. With precision,
he struck the camel on the ramp, startled. The camel
bolted forward, pulling the wooden past out of the ground. Joseph,
still bound, ran for his life, using the commotion to
his advantage. The slave trader and the buyer burst out
(04:44):
of the tent and saw Joseph.
Speaker 5 (04:46):
Running stop him.
Speaker 1 (04:48):
Joseph's breath came heavy and labored, his body weak from
days without sufficient water or food. His legs burned as
he raced through the streets, glancing back to see guards
in pursuit. To his left, he spotted a large hole
in the stone wall.
Speaker 4 (05:04):
They can't fit in there, but I can.
Speaker 1 (05:06):
With a swift pivot, Joseph leaped for the opening, squeezing
through without a scratch.
Speaker 3 (05:12):
And losing the guards.
Speaker 1 (05:13):
Breathless, he paused to assess his surroundings. To his right
was a well. To his left was a small pool
where Egyptian women played with their children. Trying to appear inconspicuous,
Joseph waited for the right moment, then dashed to the well.
He leaned over the edge, lapping water with desperate gumps.
Joseph celebrated for a brief moment. He hadn't had water
(05:37):
in over a day. However, his joy was short lived,
as his face was dipped into the well. He could
feel a hand on the back of his head, forcing
it deeper into the water. Joseph kicked and yelled, but
it was no use. The man's hands were set firmly
over his neck and head, keeping him down. Bubbles formed
from his desperate cries for help. Afterwards seemed like an eternity.
(06:01):
Joseph's squirms became less animated as he slowly began to
lose oxygen as his eyes began to grow dim. He
was released from the winter and thrown onto the ground.
Joseph coughed up water on impact and cooled over, desperately
trying to catch his breath before he could compose himself.
He was kicked in the woods. Joseph lay there holding
(06:24):
his side, questioning his decision to.
Speaker 4 (06:26):
Run the sweather kill me.
Speaker 1 (06:29):
Looking up, he saw his captor, a tall, older man,
broad shouldered and imposing. He wore an immaculate breastplate and
a head dress signifying authority. Clean shaven like most Egyptians,
he exuded power. The man dragged Joseph back to the
tent where the slave trader was securing his camel. The
(06:50):
trader sneered at Joseph, but quickly bowed when he saw
his captor.
Speaker 5 (06:55):
My lord, forgive me the Hebrew rare escaped as I
was bartering to sell him. You may kill him if
you like, or I can do it myself.
Speaker 1 (07:07):
The Ishmaelit was trembling with fear. Whoever this man was,
he was clearly very powerful. The man looked down at Joseph.
His expression was cold and impassive. Joseph couldn't get a
good read on how much trouble he was in. The
man gestured to the slave trader.
Speaker 3 (07:26):
I will buy him off you you what.
Speaker 1 (07:32):
Joseph was just as surprised as the Ishmaelite. They looked
up at the man, unable to understand his reasoning, I.
Speaker 3 (07:39):
Will give you fifteen shekels of silver for him.
Speaker 1 (07:43):
The trader hesitated, five shekels less than what he paid,
but fear overrode his greed.
Speaker 6 (07:50):
H as you wish Lord part of her, please also
accept some turmeric freshly ground from the riverlands south of
the Nile.
Speaker 1 (08:02):
Potifa handed over the silver without another word, signaling his
servant to bring his horse. The servant took the rope
attached to Joseph's wrists, and Potiphar mounted his horse, trotting
away with a small entourage of guards.
Speaker 4 (08:17):
I am net, the keeper of the Lord Potiphar's slaves.
Speaker 3 (08:20):
Come, let's get you cleaned up.
Speaker 4 (08:23):
I can't have you muddying up the lord Captain's home.
Speaker 1 (08:27):
Joseph could only make out a few Egyptian words. He
nodded to the servant and replied to the best of
his ability. The two walked side by side, with a
small entourage of guards walking behind them. Ned spoke slowly
and patiently to Joseph, explaining who had just brought him.
From what Joseph could understand, Potipha was the captain of
(08:48):
Pharaoh's royal guard and had authority over the city's security.
As they approached Potiphar's state, Joseph marveled at the lush
vineyard to the left and the stables filled with prized
horses to the right. The grandeur of the home surpassed
anything he had imagined. They led him to the slave quarters,
(09:10):
where he was stripped, shaven and bathed. Wrapped in Egyptian linen.
He was given stale bread and wine, the first real
meal in over a week. He ate voraciously. Afterward, Joseph
was taken to Potiphar's home. Ivory pillars supported a roof
over the large courtyard, where Potipha sat at his desk,
(09:31):
fanned by palm fronds. Behind him, bunched his wife, Younger, beautiful,
and adorned with fine jewelry. Joseph stood with his head bowed,
without looking up from his work.
Speaker 3 (09:45):
Potipha spoke, as I witnessed in the marketplace, you were
able to run fast. Not only this, but you were
clever enough to escape my guards. While I would not
recommend you running away again, your talents may prove useful
to me. You will work in the vineyards and in
my home. You will do your work fast and with
(10:05):
great care. You will queen, you will cook, and you
will do anything my servants ask of you. If you
do not, I will kill or sell you. It is
as simple as that.
Speaker 1 (10:18):
Joseph understood the gravity of Potiphar's words. He was no
longer a favored son, but a slave. Yet he was
determined to be the best slave and to work with
diligence and humility. That night, Joseph lay awake. He peered
(10:40):
through the window of the slave's quarters, staring up at
the sky. The white noise of heavy snores and deep
murmuring reminded him of his brothers. He surveyed the stars,
searching for answers. He wondered if they were the same
stars he would gaze upon in Canaan, Canaan. To Joseph,
(11:01):
it seemed as far away as the stars themselves. He
thought about his mother and father. He longed to hug
them again. He closed his eyes and tried to remember
the smell of fresh stew. He remembered running his hands
through the ripe grain fields beside the rolling hills. He
remembered the warm embrace of his colorful coat. Then Joseph
(11:25):
remembered his brothers. He could see their sneers of jealousy
and hatred in his mind's eye. His heart ached over
what had happened. He hated them for what they had done.
He clenched his fist and gritted his teeth, imagining what
he would do if he saw them again. Yet the
anger soon gave way to sorrow. Joseph turned over in
(11:48):
his cot and wept silently. He allowed tears to flow
from his face, then finally sighed to the heavens again,
What's this your plan?
Speaker 4 (11:59):
Why give me tree of prosperity only to throw me
away like this?
Speaker 1 (12:04):
He pondered his situation, realizing he was in the home
of a powerful man in the most powerful nation. Perhaps
his dreams were not completely lost. Joseph looked up again
to Heaven. The clouds began rolling in with the breeze
slightly covering the moon.
Speaker 4 (12:22):
Please give me favor as you did Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
Speaker 1 (12:28):
Despite his circumstances, a deep optimism welled within him. He
sensed God's protection and provision. Releasing the tension in his fists,
he breathed deeply and drifted to sleep. Joseph arose early
that morning before the other slaves. The sun had not
(12:51):
yet risen, and the coolness of mourning was a refreshing
chain from the stuffy room where the slaves were kept.
He greeted the guards outside the door and gestured to
the water basin with rags soaking in them. They nodded
and allowed Joseph to get an early start on his work.
Joseph took the basin into the courtyard and began to
(13:12):
scrub the floors. He paid attention to every detail of
the floors. He scrubbed the cracks, polishing off every square
inch of the courtyard. After he was done, Joseph climbed
the ivory pillars, reaching up to clean off the cobwebs
that had formed in the corners. Then Joseph took some
oil from the palm roots and rubbed down Potiphar's desk.
(13:35):
He polished the wood and paid close attention to sanding
down any rough edges. Joseph had finally finished as the
sun rose, Potiphar arose from his chambers, fully dressed, groomed,
and prepared for his day. Joseph was wringing out his
rags when Potipha entered the courtyard. He scanned the newly
(13:55):
polished area, then looked down at Joseph. Joseph bowed, picked
up the empty basin, and returned to the slaves quarters.
He wanted to return to the others before they could
see what he had done. Joseph had learned his lesson
from what had happened with his brothers. If he was
going to gain favor from Potiphar, it couldn't be at
(14:16):
the expense of the others. He had to be humble, diligent,
and kind. Joseph joined the other slaves as they made
their way down to the vineyard. Potipha sat at his
desk and ran his hands across the wood. He then
looked up to see Joseph leaving with the other slaves,
a slight smile dimly lit in his eyes. Weeks passed,
(14:41):
and Joseph continued to go above and beyond his orders.
When the other slaves returned for their meal, Joseph remained
in the vineyard, keeping a tally of the vines whose
branches produced more fruit. He kept track of their cycles
and reported them to the vine dresser. Before the sun rose,
while the other slaves slept, Joseph arose to scrub and
(15:04):
organize Potiphar's courtyard. He pruned the plants, polished the tile,
and buffed his desk. All the while he would pray
to his God, the god of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
He would pray for wisdom to learn the culture, endurance
to work harder than the others, and humility to pursue
(15:24):
it all with a pure heart. As Joseph worked, he
grew closer and closer to the God of his forefathers.
In his heart grew a deep love for his Lord.
Although he worked under Potiphar, he recognized that it was
God under whom he worked, and God granted Joseph favor
in everything that he did. Potiphar noticed Joseph's talents, including
(15:49):
his organization, i for detail, and work ethic. Yet another
pair of eyes was on Joseph. Potiphar's wife would often
stroll beside the vineyard, catching glimpses of Joseph working under
the hot sun. However, Joseph's eyes never met hers. He
was intent on working and gaining favor with God and man.
(16:11):
Three years passed and Joseph grew stronger and filled with
the spirit of God. He was diligent in learning the
language and eventually was promoted to oversee the slaves alongside
net Joseph had shown an aptitude for planning the vineyard's
harvest depending on seasons. He paid close attention to the weather,
(16:33):
its patents, and the demand for wine in the market place.
Joseph became beloved amongst the slaves, and the members of
Potiphar's house felt comfortable relying on him for important tasks.
It was evident to the entire household of Potiphar that
God had blessed Joseph. Joseph was now twenty years old.
His once prideful and arrogant demeanor had been replaced with
(16:57):
a strong and humble presence. He carried married himself as
someone who was capable but willing to serve instead of
be served. Joseph arose early, as was his ritual. His
footsteps echoed through the halls of Potiphar's courtyard. He scrubbed, scoured,
(17:17):
and polished, whistling a Hebrew lullaby his mother used to sing.
It had become a ritual for Joseph, a meditation of humility.
Yet it was interrupted by the regal footsteps of another.
Joseph stood at attention as Potiphar entered the courtyard. He
rubbed his hand against his desk, feeling its newly oiled surface.
Speaker 3 (17:40):
You have been here before sunrise every morning since you've arrived.
At first, I thought you may be a thief, getting
acquainted with the house before the others were awake. A
year past, and I thought you to be an opportunist,
hoping to gain favor with the others. But now, after
(18:03):
three years, I've come to be surprised by your relentlessness.
Why do you do this You were never commanded to
do so.
Speaker 4 (18:14):
I live to serve Lord Potiphar.
Speaker 3 (18:16):
Do not give me pleasantry. Slave. I've asked you an
honest question. You will respond with an honest answer.
Speaker 1 (18:24):
Joseph paused, realizing this was the first time Potiphar had
spoken to him since he arrived.
Speaker 4 (18:31):
If I am to be a slave, I'd like to
be the best.
Speaker 3 (18:35):
So it's ambition that drives you.
Speaker 4 (18:37):
No, my lord, not ambition contrition. I was once the
most favored son of my household. I was gifted with
a high status in my father's house despite being the youngest.
I am sad to say I squandered my position. My
arrogance and laziness led my brothers to jealousy. It led
(18:59):
me here now as a slave. God has granted me
the chance to change my heart, a chance to do
things right.
Speaker 3 (19:07):
Which God do you worship?
Speaker 4 (19:09):
I worshiped the One True God Master. He has given
me undeserved favor, favor.
Speaker 3 (19:16):
You're a slave, although there is no denying it, said Joseph,
Your God has clearly blessed you in some way. Perhaps
this God of slaves can do something for me too.
Speaker 1 (19:29):
The captain walked down the steps towards the vineyard and
gestured for Joseph to follow him. Joseph walked beside him.
Potipher plucked some grapes from the vines and began to eat.
He pointed towards the rising sun. Its golden beams showered
light over the dark grape leaves. The contrast was brilliant
(19:50):
to behold light from above and darkness from below.
Speaker 3 (19:55):
This is the God that I worshiped, Joseph a Munrah.
He is the of life, power, and fertility of the earth.
He has blessed me with unprecedented power and influence. Pharaoh
himself listens to me, and it is all because of Ah. However,
(20:15):
since you have been here, our crops have increased, Our
slaves are in higher spirits. Than the livestock are healthier.
Perhaps the favor your God brings can match the might
of ah Hm. Joseph, I would like to appoint you
as my household over here. Everything I own, everyone who
(20:39):
lives here, and all the crops I grow will be
under your care.
Speaker 1 (20:45):
Joseph was speechless. It was an honor for Potiphar to
even speak with him. Now he was being appointed as
the manager of his entire estate. Joseph fell to his
knees and spread out his hands.
Speaker 4 (20:58):
You honor me with this responsibility. May God bless you
for your kindness towards me. I will not let you down.
Speaker 3 (21:05):
Hah. Come here, It is much for you to learn.
If you're going to be the governor of my home,
you must carry yourself with authority.
Speaker 1 (21:14):
Potiphar led him back through the courtyard and into his chambers.
There was a large wooden chest sitting at the foot
of his bed. He reached inside and pulled out a
gold chain. At the center was a sapphire the size
of a marble. Potifa held it up to Joseph, then
placed it around his neck. It hung on his bare chest.
(21:37):
The sapphire was a bright contrast to Joseph's tanned skin.
Speaker 3 (21:42):
Joseph, I give you all of my authority over this hole.
You may command my servants, the slaves, and every worker
within my estate as you please.
Speaker 1 (21:54):
The tall captain froze mid thought and looked out the
door into the courtyard and her maid servants were preparing
to bathe in the paws. Potiphar looked at Joseph intently,
eyes revealing some deep wounds and desires.
Speaker 3 (22:10):
However, you may, under no circumstances, order my wife or
her maid's silence.
Speaker 1 (22:17):
Joseph nodded in agreement, giving a slight bow. Potiphar took
him for an early meal, and the two discussed how
the inner workings of the estate could be managed better.
Potiphar asked questions, praised Joseph's answers, and responded with more questions.
Joseph was surprised at how humble of a man Potiphar
(22:38):
truly was. For years, he had judged him as an
unapproachable ruler, someone stuck in his ways and cold. However,
under the overhang's cool shade, Joseph could relate to Potiphar
and speak freely. For the first time in three years,
he no longer felt like a slave. He felt once
(22:59):
again the loving approval of a father. This Prey dot
Com production is only made possible by our dedicated team
of creative talents. Steve Gattina, Max Bard, Zach Shellabarger and
(23:21):
Ben Gammon are the executive producers of The Chosen People.
Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton,
Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwold, Sylvia Zaradoc,
Thomas Copeland, Junior, Rosanna Pilcher, and Mitch Leshinsky. Music by
Andrew Morgan Smith, written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and
(23:45):
Chris Baig. You can hear more Prey dot com productions
on the Prey dot Com app, available on the Apple
App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed The
Chosen People, please rate and leave a review,
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