December 14, 2025 • 22 mins
# 50 - Joseph: The Tempted - In this episode of The Chosen People we explore Joseph’s journey from betrayal to triumph continues as he resists temptation in Potiphar’s house, standing firm in faith against relentless trials. Join us as we explore timeless lessons of integrity, courage, and divine purpose inspired by Genesis 39.
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Episode 50 of The Chosen People is inspired by the Book of Genesis.
Today's opening prayer is inspired by James 4:7, “Be subject therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”
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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, okay, okay, Lie. Lying in a pit just north
of here, there is a young young man. He's seventeen.
He's strong, lean, and able to work. What what will
you give us for.
Speaker 3 (00:21):
If the boy is healthy and able bodied? Oh, We'll
give you twenty shekels of silver. Oh God, what have
I done to deserve this?
Speaker 1 (00:35):
Joseph was taken to Potiphar's home.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
You will work in the vineyards and in my home.
You will do your work fast and with great care.
You will clean, 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 (00:56):
Three years past, 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.
Speaker 4 (01:09):
I would like to appoint you as my household overseer.
Everything I own, everyone who lives here, and all the
crops I grow, will be under your care.
Speaker 1 (01:21):
The tall captain froze mid thought and looked out the
door into the courtyard. His wife and her maid servants
were preparing to bathe in the polls. Potipher looked at
Joseph intently, eyes revealing some deep wounds and desires.
Speaker 4 (01:37):
However, you may, under no circumstances would do my wife
for her maid servants.
Speaker 1 (01:44):
For the first time in three years, he no longer
felt like a slave. He felt once again the loving
approval of a father. This episode of The Chosen People
contains explicit content that may be triggering for some listeners
(02:05):
and inappropriate for young children. Listener discretion is advised. Five
years had passed, and under Joseph's diligent stewardship, Potiphar's wealth
had flourished beyond imagination. His estates brimmed with prosperity. The
servants were well fed and content, The vineyards yielded wine
(02:27):
worthy of Pharaoh's table, and the stables boasted the finest
race horses in all of Egypt. The blessings of God
seemed to follow Joseph's every move. There was not an
inch of Potiphar's land that had not been touched by
his wisdom and hard work. Yet, in the deep shadows
of night, a subtle evil slithered through the corridors of
(02:47):
Potiphar's house. It prowled like a serpent. Silent and unseen.
Joseph lay in his bed, the dim torchlight flickering at
the doorway. A shadow loomed over him with cold eyes.
Joseph stirred, the sense of unease prickling his skin. He
sat up abruptly, but the figure had vanished into the darkness.
(03:10):
Rising cautiously, he peered down the hallway.
Speaker 3 (03:13):
Who's there?
Speaker 1 (03:15):
Silence, Only the distant murmur of the night answered him.
Joseph rubbed his eyes and returned to his bed. Dawn
was only a few hours away, and he needed rest.
Morning came early, as it always did for Joseph. He
began his day in the courtyard, polishing the marble pillars
(03:37):
until they gleamed in the sunlight, scrubbing the floors until
they were spotless, and buffing Potiph's desk to a high shine.
Over the years, Joseph and Potiphar had grown as close
as father and son. There was nothing in the household
that Potiphar withheld from Joseph. After completing his tasks, Joseph's
thoughts turned to the new plot of land behind the stable.
(04:00):
He had convinced Potiphar to plant grain there, to prepare
for any future famine. As Egypt's fields were lush with
golden grain, Joseph sought to ensure Potiphar's household would never
want for food. He rode his horse to the fields,
the sapphire amulet around his neck, catching.
Speaker 3 (04:18):
The morning sun.
Speaker 1 (04:20):
To the other servants, the amulet was a symbol of
Joseph's merit and diligence. Rather than envy, they felt admiration.
If Joseph, a slave like them, could rise to such heights,
then so could they.
Speaker 3 (04:33):
Good morning, brothers, Let's quicken our pace in the morning,
before the harsh sun slows our work.
Speaker 1 (04:39):
He took up the plow, his muscles rippling under the strain.
As he worked the rough soil. Memories of his brother's
grumbling filled his mind. They had always complained about their labor. Joseph,
determined to be different, worked with a smile. Hours passed
under the punishing sun. Joseph wagged his brow, the sweat glistening.
Speaker 3 (05:00):
On his broad back.
Speaker 1 (05:01):
He bought water over his head and neck, savoring the
brief relief. Despite the heat, progress was steady. Potipha and
his wife rode off to check on the breaking of
the new ground. Joseph approached them and bowed.
Speaker 2 (05:15):
How is the groundbreaking, Joseph, Will it receive the seat soon?
Speaker 3 (05:20):
All is well and going according to plan, my lord,
it will be prime for planting soon. My only worry
is water access in case of a drought. But do
not worry. We've hired diggers to carry water from the
streams cutting at the edge of your property.
Speaker 2 (05:35):
You'll think about everything well done.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Potipha nodded in approval. Pacing the fields to inspect the
rich tilled soil. Joseph stood in the shade, catching his breath.
His large chest rose and fell with deep breaths, his
skin slick with sweat. Potiphar's wife lounged nearby, her eyes
lingering on Joseph. At twenty five, he had grown into
(05:59):
a man of striking appearance. She watched him with a
predatory gaze. Joseph, feeling her eyes upon him, did his
best to avoid her.
Speaker 5 (06:08):
Stare, My husband thinks you are a gift from Rah.
Did you know that?
Speaker 2 (06:14):
Now?
Speaker 1 (06:14):
Joseph had no choice but to turn. He faced her,
seeing her beauty illuminated in the afternoon light. She wore
a loose linen dress that lay over her body like
a thin sheet, he felt like he could see all
of her. Joseph bowed his head and averted his gaze.
Speaker 3 (06:31):
Your husband is a kind man.
Speaker 5 (06:34):
Be that as it may. He's wrong. You aren't a
gift from Rah. I think you were sent by Annette.
There's no way a frame such as yours wouldn't have
been crafted for pleasure.
Speaker 3 (06:51):
Your gods are still foreign to me. I doubt any
of them consider me at all.
Speaker 5 (06:56):
Oh, oh yours, rumble as you are handsome, young Joseph.
Come lounge with me and watch the others work. Drink
some chilled wine, and devour some berries with me.
Speaker 3 (07:13):
You look tired. That's a kind invitation, my lady, but
I must continue working. Your husband has entrusted me with much.
Speaker 5 (07:23):
Very well, then till next.
Speaker 3 (07:26):
Time, Joseph.
Speaker 1 (07:28):
Joseph bowed again and turned back to the field, putting
distance between himself and her. Yet whenever he glanced back,
she was watching him, her gaze unwavering. Later that night,
Joseph sought the sanctuary of the chamber baths. His body
ached from the day's labor, and he longed for the
(07:49):
peace and quiet of the warm water. He often waited
for the other servants to finish so he could soak
in solitude. Stripping off his clothes, he eased into the bath,
the warmth seeping into his muscles. He closed his eyes,
letting the water soothe his aches. Half asleep, Joseph could
hear quiet footsteps, quiet and deliberate. He opened his eyes
(08:13):
to see Potiphar's wife entering the room. Her dress hung loosely,
barely clinging to her body as she approached the bath.
Speaker 6 (08:22):
Oh, hello again, Joseph.
Speaker 3 (08:27):
My lady, why are you out here so late?
Speaker 5 (08:30):
My husband retreats to bed early. He vows to sleep
when ra sleeps. What a boar, But not me. I'm
like a cat. I have the most fun at night.
I prowl these howls, hunting for a snack.
Speaker 3 (08:52):
Perhaps I should take cues from your husband and retreat early. Nonsense.
Speaker 5 (08:56):
This is your ritual, is it not. You come here
to escape a noise under Relax here, let me help you.
Speaker 6 (09:05):
Unwhite.
Speaker 1 (09:07):
She let her dress slip off her shoulders, Standing naked
before him, she smiled and stepped into the bath, the
water rippling around her.
Speaker 5 (09:18):
It's just you and me here, Joseph.
Speaker 1 (09:23):
Potiphar's wife waded closer, her hand reaching out under the water.
Joseph's breath caught in his throat, his body tensed, his
mind screaming for him to move in closer, But in
a brief moment of control over his will, Joseph stole
his agency back and recoiled. He leaped out of the
water and grabbed his clothes. He wrapped a towel around
(09:45):
his waist and bowed his head.
Speaker 3 (09:48):
I am clean now and very tired. Have a good bath,
my lady.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
Without another word, he fled the room, leaving Potiphar's wife
in the bath. She watched him go, her smirk playing
on her lips. The next morning, Joseph avoided Potiphar's wife,
knowing that if he lingered too long, his resolve might crumble.
He worked all day, bathed quickly with the other servants,
(10:16):
and retreated to his quarters. That night, he sat on
the balcony, gazing up at the stars and wondering if
his family still lived. Before Egypt, the god of his
father had seemed distant and mysterious, but through hardship and trial,
Joseph had come to see God more clearly. He felt
his presence as if he were in the room, guiding
(10:38):
and protecting him. With a heavy sigh, Joseph turned back
into his room. He stopped short. Lying on his bed
under the flickering candlelight was Potipha's wife. She looked at
him with longing You.
Speaker 5 (10:53):
And I both nor Potiphar is far too busy for
on me.
Speaker 1 (10:58):
She crawled forward on the bed, lifting her eyes to Joseph.
Speaker 5 (11:03):
I am lonely at night, Joseph.
Speaker 3 (11:06):
I require your company, mistress. My master has given me
authority in this house. He doesn't need to think about
anything because he trusts me. He's put everything in my
care and has withheld nothing from me except you. You
are his wife and very precious to him.
Speaker 6 (11:26):
Enough, honor, Joseph, come to bed.
Speaker 1 (11:29):
Joseph gulped, his eyes drifting to her smooth skin, barely
touched by the sun, and the curls of her hair
draping over her body. She was undeniably beautiful. He leaned in,
feeling his temperature eyes. She smiled an inched closer like
a lioness, not wanting to startle her prey lie with me.
(11:52):
Before she could lean in to kiss him, Joseph pushed
back and shook his head.
Speaker 3 (11:57):
I cannot do this. Please leave very well.
Speaker 5 (12:03):
I will leave She.
Speaker 1 (12:05):
Rose and wrapped herself in her garment, sauntering past him
with a seductive sway. Before leaving, she caressed his cheek
with the back.
Speaker 6 (12:13):
Of her hand before I go, I would like to
remind you that.
Speaker 5 (12:19):
You are still a slave in my house under my rule.
Speaker 6 (12:25):
When I come again, it won't be this polite.
Speaker 1 (12:30):
Joseph closed his eyes and waited for the door to
close behind him. He exhaled the breath and leaned against
the window sill. He had avoided catastrophe again. Joseph clenched
his jaw. He remembered how easily his brothers had succumbed
to women. It was a red mark on their character.
Joseph was determined to be better to rise about the
(12:52):
temptations of his forefathers.
Speaker 3 (12:54):
My God help me.
Speaker 1 (13:01):
The air was thick with the mingled sense of incense
and freshly baked bread as the sun cast its golden
rays over Egypt. It was the festival of Opet, a
time on a tradition dedicated to the god Amen Ram,
and the city was alive with vibrant energy. Along the wide,
dusty streets, citizens of all ages lined the route, eager
(13:24):
to witness the grand procession. Women in flowing white linen
gowns adorned with colorful beadwork chatted animatedly. Men wore their
best skirts, their bronze skin gleaming in the sunlight as
they stood tall, ready to pay homage to their deities.
Children darted between the adults, their laughter a light, joyous
(13:45):
counterpoint to the deeper with macchanting that filled the air.
In the heart of the city, the grand avenue leading
from the Karnak Temple to the Luxor Temple was transformed
into a sacred pathway. Joseph watched the procession of musicians
with lyres hearts and flutes, playing tunes with the steady
beat of drums. The sounds seemed to vibrate through the
(14:07):
very stones of the city, creating a palpable sense of anticipation.
Joseph stood behind the crowd and watched the priests, clad
in intricately embroidered robes, carry statues of the gods. Each
statue was resplendent in gold and precious stones. The priests
moved with deliberate grace, their faces serene and focused, chanting
(14:30):
hymns that echoed through the city behind them. Dancers swirled
and leaped, their movements fluid and hypnotic, telling stories of
the God's deeds and the creation of the world. Their costumes,
vibrant and elaborate, mirrored the colors of the niles, flora,
and fauna, creating a living tapestry of motion. The crowd
(14:51):
watched in all their eyes, following every twist and turn
of the dancer's bodies. As the sun dipped below the horizon,
the first transformed into a more debased celebration. The streets
filled with the sound of drunken cackles, and tables groaned
under the weight of lavish feasts. Wine flowed freely, and
(15:12):
the rich aroma of roasted meat filled the air. When
the temple, prostitutes and enslaved children filled the streets, Joseph
knew it was his time to leave. He walked the
path back to Potiphar's house. The summer air was humid
and thick enough to run a blade through. Joseph was
weary from the festivities. Times like these reminded him that
(15:33):
he was a stranger in this land, a Hebrew among Egyptians.
Yet the night brought some solace. Potiphar's entire household was gone,
save but for a few guards standing at the entrance.
Joseph enjoyed the quiet, using the opportunity to organize a
few things in the house. He paced in the halls
of Potiphar's quarters, organizing scrolls and polishing statues. The torches
(15:57):
illuminated ornate tapestries and trophies of conquest. It was against
this backdrop that Joseph saw a shadow approaching, hymns, swinging
to and fro in a familiar motion.
Speaker 3 (16:09):
No, well, not again, not here.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
Joseph turned to see Potiphar's wife leaning against the entrance.
Speaker 5 (16:17):
Why aren't you celebrating with the others, Most even slaves
revel in the festival. We celebrate the creation, a knight
of endless possibilities.
Speaker 4 (16:31):
I am a Hebrew.
Speaker 3 (16:32):
We have a different creation story, not one of conquest
and dominance, but of truth and order spoken to chaos.
Speaker 5 (16:40):
How poetic?
Speaker 3 (16:41):
Tell me more?
Speaker 1 (16:43):
Potiphar's wife inched closer, longing reflected in her coalined eyes.
Speaker 3 (16:48):
I don't think you're here to listen to Hebrew stories.
Speaker 5 (16:53):
You're smart, no wonder you're so respected and soft.
Speaker 1 (16:59):
After she closed the door, the sound of wood against
the beams echoed across the empty halls.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
No mistress, I told you I can't.
Speaker 6 (17:11):
We are alone, Joseph, all alone.
Speaker 1 (17:17):
She licked her finger and snuffed one of the candles.
The room was now dimmer, but somehow hotter. Joseph was
getting flustered.
Speaker 3 (17:26):
I won't sin against my master or my God.
Speaker 6 (17:30):
Here and now I am your master and God.
Speaker 1 (17:37):
Potiphar's wife seized Joseph by the belt of his garment
and pulled in forcibly. This time there was a deep
rage within her.
Speaker 6 (17:45):
Lessen to me, slave, you are still owned by this household.
You are still owned by me.
Speaker 3 (17:54):
That may be so, But before you and my master,
I am owned by another. Not sin against my guard.
Speaker 6 (18:02):
To the nile with your God, lie with me, or
face the consequences.
Speaker 1 (18:07):
Joseph, out of options, decided to run. With his garments
still in her hand. Joseph fled out of his room.
The garment slid off his body, and Joseph ran naked
through the halls. Just as he turned the corner, he
heard a loud scream echo through the entire home. Joseph
knew at that moment that he was in desperate trouble.
Potiva's wife screamed and called for the guards. Joseph looked
(18:31):
back and saw them rush into his room.
Speaker 5 (18:34):
He attagged me. This Hebrew slave lured me into sleep
with me, but I screamed.
Speaker 3 (18:40):
Quickly he went that way.
Speaker 1 (18:42):
Joseph held his head low. He didn't run, he didn't quarrel.
He knew it would be an admission of guilt if
he fought. He simply held his hands up and allowed
the guards to tackle him to the floor. Joseph was beaten.
He dragged to Potiphar by his hair. Potiphar sat at
his polished desk, holding Joseph's garment in his hand. His
(19:05):
wife was crying behind, being consoled by her maid servants.
Tied up and bruised, Joseph stood before Potiphar, much like
he had eight years ago.
Speaker 4 (19:16):
So this is how you repay.
Speaker 3 (19:18):
My kindness, Master, I promise you.
Speaker 2 (19:23):
I save you from the ishmaelite trader. I brought you
into my home. I give you charge over everything I have,
and this is what you give me. You assault my
wife and make a mockery of me.
Speaker 1 (19:38):
Joseph's eyes began to water. He saw in Potiphar the
same deep well of hatred his brothers once had. Joseph
breathed in deeply, and looked Potiphar in the eye.
Speaker 3 (19:49):
You are my master and my friend. Have I not
earned you trust? By now? I tell you I've done
nothing wrong? It's a lie. Please you must believe.
Speaker 1 (20:00):
Potiphar was silent for a long moment. He leaned over
his desk with his head held low. Joseph watched his
grip tighten on the desk edges.
Speaker 4 (20:11):
Believe you.
Speaker 2 (20:14):
Believe few believe a foreigner over my own wife. Believe
a Hebrew slave over the words of my beloved bride.
Speaker 1 (20:26):
Potipha looked up with complete rage and contempt.
Speaker 2 (20:29):
Did I not warn you that I would kill you
if you disobeyed me?
Speaker 1 (20:36):
As he yelled this, Potipha drew his sword and swung
at the desk. The desk shattered and frayed into dozens
of pieces. The desk Joseph had cleaned every day for
eight years was in shamls. Potipha pointed his sword at Joseph.
Speaker 2 (20:52):
You will rot in twison for the rest of your
day's Hebrew take him away.
Speaker 1 (21:00):
In an instant, Joseph was taken up by the guards
and thrown into the royal prison where Pharaoh's prisoners were confined.
He fell down the jagged steps onto the cold damp
stone beneath. He looked up, looking at the last light
of the prison hallway disappear. As he peered up, he
saw the faces of his brothers scowling at him from above.
(21:24):
Joseph was once again in the pit. This Prey Dog
conproduction is only made possible by our dedicated team of
creative talents. Steve Gattina, Max Bard, Zack Sllebager, and Ben
Gammon are the executive producers of The Chosen People. Narrated
(21:44):
by Paul Coltefianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato,
Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Junior,
Rosanna Pilcher, and Mitch Leshinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith,
written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and Chris bag You
(22:05):
can hear more Prey dot Com productions on the Prey
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Previously on the Chosen People.
Speaker 2 (00:04):
Oh, okay, okay, Lie. Lying in a pit just north
of here, there is a young young man. He's seventeen.
He's strong, lean, and able to work. What what will
you give us for.
Speaker 3 (00:21):
If the boy is healthy and able bodied? Oh, We'll
give you twenty shekels of silver. Oh God, what have
I done to deserve this?
Speaker 1 (00:35):
Joseph was taken to Potiphar's home.
Speaker 2 (00:38):
You will work in the vineyards and in my home.
You will do your work fast and with great care.
You will clean, 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 (00:56):
Three years past, 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.
Speaker 4 (01:09):
I would like to appoint you as my household overseer.
Everything I own, everyone who lives here, and all the
crops I grow, will be under your care.
Speaker 1 (01:21):
The tall captain froze mid thought and looked out the
door into the courtyard. His wife and her maid servants
were preparing to bathe in the polls. Potipher looked at
Joseph intently, eyes revealing some deep wounds and desires.
Speaker 4 (01:37):
However, you may, under no circumstances would do my wife
for her maid servants.
Speaker 1 (01:44):
For the first time in three years, he no longer
felt like a slave. He felt once again the loving
approval of a father. This episode of The Chosen People
contains explicit content that may be triggering for some listeners
(02:05):
and inappropriate for young children. Listener discretion is advised. Five
years had passed, and under Joseph's diligent stewardship, Potiphar's wealth
had flourished beyond imagination. His estates brimmed with prosperity. The
servants were well fed and content, The vineyards yielded wine
(02:27):
worthy of Pharaoh's table, and the stables boasted the finest
race horses in all of Egypt. The blessings of God
seemed to follow Joseph's every move. There was not an
inch of Potiphar's land that had not been touched by
his wisdom and hard work. Yet, in the deep shadows
of night, a subtle evil slithered through the corridors of
(02:47):
Potiphar's house. It prowled like a serpent. Silent and unseen.
Joseph lay in his bed, the dim torchlight flickering at
the doorway. A shadow loomed over him with cold eyes.
Joseph stirred, the sense of unease prickling his skin. He
sat up abruptly, but the figure had vanished into the darkness.
(03:10):
Rising cautiously, he peered down the hallway.
Speaker 3 (03:13):
Who's there?
Speaker 1 (03:15):
Silence, Only the distant murmur of the night answered him.
Joseph rubbed his eyes and returned to his bed. Dawn
was only a few hours away, and he needed rest.
Morning came early, as it always did for Joseph. He
began his day in the courtyard, polishing the marble pillars
(03:37):
until they gleamed in the sunlight, scrubbing the floors until
they were spotless, and buffing Potiph's desk to a high shine.
Over the years, Joseph and Potiphar had grown as close
as father and son. There was nothing in the household
that Potiphar withheld from Joseph. After completing his tasks, Joseph's
thoughts turned to the new plot of land behind the stable.
(04:00):
He had convinced Potiphar to plant grain there, to prepare
for any future famine. As Egypt's fields were lush with
golden grain, Joseph sought to ensure Potiphar's household would never
want for food. He rode his horse to the fields,
the sapphire amulet around his neck, catching.
Speaker 3 (04:18):
The morning sun.
Speaker 1 (04:20):
To the other servants, the amulet was a symbol of
Joseph's merit and diligence. Rather than envy, they felt admiration.
If Joseph, a slave like them, could rise to such heights,
then so could they.
Speaker 3 (04:33):
Good morning, brothers, Let's quicken our pace in the morning,
before the harsh sun slows our work.
Speaker 1 (04:39):
He took up the plow, his muscles rippling under the strain.
As he worked the rough soil. Memories of his brother's
grumbling filled his mind. They had always complained about their labor. Joseph,
determined to be different, worked with a smile. Hours passed
under the punishing sun. Joseph wagged his brow, the sweat glistening.
Speaker 3 (05:00):
On his broad back.
Speaker 1 (05:01):
He bought water over his head and neck, savoring the
brief relief. Despite the heat, progress was steady. Potipha and
his wife rode off to check on the breaking of
the new ground. Joseph approached them and bowed.
Speaker 2 (05:15):
How is the groundbreaking, Joseph, Will it receive the seat soon?
Speaker 3 (05:20):
All is well and going according to plan, my lord,
it will be prime for planting soon. My only worry
is water access in case of a drought. But do
not worry. We've hired diggers to carry water from the
streams cutting at the edge of your property.
Speaker 2 (05:35):
You'll think about everything well done.
Speaker 1 (05:38):
Potipha nodded in approval. Pacing the fields to inspect the
rich tilled soil. Joseph stood in the shade, catching his breath.
His large chest rose and fell with deep breaths, his
skin slick with sweat. Potiphar's wife lounged nearby, her eyes
lingering on Joseph. At twenty five, he had grown into
(05:59):
a man of striking appearance. She watched him with a
predatory gaze. Joseph, feeling her eyes upon him, did his
best to avoid her.
Speaker 5 (06:08):
Stare, My husband thinks you are a gift from Rah.
Did you know that?
Speaker 2 (06:14):
Now?
Speaker 1 (06:14):
Joseph had no choice but to turn. He faced her,
seeing her beauty illuminated in the afternoon light. She wore
a loose linen dress that lay over her body like
a thin sheet, he felt like he could see all
of her. Joseph bowed his head and averted his gaze.
Speaker 3 (06:31):
Your husband is a kind man.
Speaker 5 (06:34):
Be that as it may. He's wrong. You aren't a
gift from Rah. I think you were sent by Annette.
There's no way a frame such as yours wouldn't have
been crafted for pleasure.
Speaker 3 (06:51):
Your gods are still foreign to me. I doubt any
of them consider me at all.
Speaker 5 (06:56):
Oh, oh yours, rumble as you are handsome, young Joseph.
Come lounge with me and watch the others work. Drink
some chilled wine, and devour some berries with me.
Speaker 3 (07:13):
You look tired. That's a kind invitation, my lady, but
I must continue working. Your husband has entrusted me with much.
Speaker 5 (07:23):
Very well, then till next.
Speaker 3 (07:26):
Time, Joseph.
Speaker 1 (07:28):
Joseph bowed again and turned back to the field, putting
distance between himself and her. Yet whenever he glanced back,
she was watching him, her gaze unwavering. Later that night,
Joseph sought the sanctuary of the chamber baths. His body
ached from the day's labor, and he longed for the
(07:49):
peace and quiet of the warm water. He often waited
for the other servants to finish so he could soak
in solitude. Stripping off his clothes, he eased into the bath,
the warmth seeping into his muscles. He closed his eyes,
letting the water soothe his aches. Half asleep, Joseph could
hear quiet footsteps, quiet and deliberate. He opened his eyes
(08:13):
to see Potiphar's wife entering the room. Her dress hung loosely,
barely clinging to her body as she approached the bath.
Speaker 6 (08:22):
Oh, hello again, Joseph.
Speaker 3 (08:27):
My lady, why are you out here so late?
Speaker 5 (08:30):
My husband retreats to bed early. He vows to sleep
when ra sleeps. What a boar, But not me. I'm
like a cat. I have the most fun at night.
I prowl these howls, hunting for a snack.
Speaker 3 (08:52):
Perhaps I should take cues from your husband and retreat early. Nonsense.
Speaker 5 (08:56):
This is your ritual, is it not. You come here
to escape a noise under Relax here, let me help you.
Speaker 6 (09:05):
Unwhite.
Speaker 1 (09:07):
She let her dress slip off her shoulders, Standing naked
before him, she smiled and stepped into the bath, the
water rippling around her.
Speaker 5 (09:18):
It's just you and me here, Joseph.
Speaker 1 (09:23):
Potiphar's wife waded closer, her hand reaching out under the water.
Joseph's breath caught in his throat, his body tensed, his
mind screaming for him to move in closer, But in
a brief moment of control over his will, Joseph stole
his agency back and recoiled. He leaped out of the
water and grabbed his clothes. He wrapped a towel around
(09:45):
his waist and bowed his head.
Speaker 3 (09:48):
I am clean now and very tired. Have a good bath,
my lady.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
Without another word, he fled the room, leaving Potiphar's wife
in the bath. She watched him go, her smirk playing
on her lips. The next morning, Joseph avoided Potiphar's wife,
knowing that if he lingered too long, his resolve might crumble.
He worked all day, bathed quickly with the other servants,
(10:16):
and retreated to his quarters. That night, he sat on
the balcony, gazing up at the stars and wondering if
his family still lived. Before Egypt, the god of his
father had seemed distant and mysterious, but through hardship and trial,
Joseph had come to see God more clearly. He felt
his presence as if he were in the room, guiding
(10:38):
and protecting him. With a heavy sigh, Joseph turned back
into his room. He stopped short. Lying on his bed
under the flickering candlelight was Potipha's wife. She looked at
him with longing You.
Speaker 5 (10:53):
And I both nor Potiphar is far too busy for
on me.
Speaker 1 (10:58):
She crawled forward on the bed, lifting her eyes to Joseph.
Speaker 5 (11:03):
I am lonely at night, Joseph.
Speaker 3 (11:06):
I require your company, mistress. My master has given me
authority in this house. He doesn't need to think about
anything because he trusts me. He's put everything in my
care and has withheld nothing from me except you. You
are his wife and very precious to him.
Speaker 6 (11:26):
Enough, honor, Joseph, come to bed.
Speaker 1 (11:29):
Joseph gulped, his eyes drifting to her smooth skin, barely
touched by the sun, and the curls of her hair
draping over her body. She was undeniably beautiful. He leaned in,
feeling his temperature eyes. She smiled an inched closer like
a lioness, not wanting to startle her prey lie with me.
(11:52):
Before she could lean in to kiss him, Joseph pushed
back and shook his head.
Speaker 3 (11:57):
I cannot do this. Please leave very well.
Speaker 5 (12:03):
I will leave She.
Speaker 1 (12:05):
Rose and wrapped herself in her garment, sauntering past him
with a seductive sway. Before leaving, she caressed his cheek
with the back.
Speaker 6 (12:13):
Of her hand before I go, I would like to
remind you that.
Speaker 5 (12:19):
You are still a slave in my house under my rule.
Speaker 6 (12:25):
When I come again, it won't be this polite.
Speaker 1 (12:30):
Joseph closed his eyes and waited for the door to
close behind him. He exhaled the breath and leaned against
the window sill. He had avoided catastrophe again. Joseph clenched
his jaw. He remembered how easily his brothers had succumbed
to women. It was a red mark on their character.
Joseph was determined to be better to rise about the
(12:52):
temptations of his forefathers.
Speaker 3 (12:54):
My God help me.
Speaker 1 (13:01):
The air was thick with the mingled sense of incense
and freshly baked bread as the sun cast its golden
rays over Egypt. It was the festival of Opet, a
time on a tradition dedicated to the god Amen Ram,
and the city was alive with vibrant energy. Along the wide,
dusty streets, citizens of all ages lined the route, eager
(13:24):
to witness the grand procession. Women in flowing white linen
gowns adorned with colorful beadwork chatted animatedly. Men wore their
best skirts, their bronze skin gleaming in the sunlight as
they stood tall, ready to pay homage to their deities.
Children darted between the adults, their laughter a light, joyous
(13:45):
counterpoint to the deeper with macchanting that filled the air.
In the heart of the city, the grand avenue leading
from the Karnak Temple to the Luxor Temple was transformed
into a sacred pathway. Joseph watched the procession of musicians
with lyres hearts and flutes, playing tunes with the steady
beat of drums. The sounds seemed to vibrate through the
(14:07):
very stones of the city, creating a palpable sense of anticipation.
Joseph stood behind the crowd and watched the priests, clad
in intricately embroidered robes, carry statues of the gods. Each
statue was resplendent in gold and precious stones. The priests
moved with deliberate grace, their faces serene and focused, chanting
(14:30):
hymns that echoed through the city behind them. Dancers swirled
and leaped, their movements fluid and hypnotic, telling stories of
the God's deeds and the creation of the world. Their costumes,
vibrant and elaborate, mirrored the colors of the niles, flora,
and fauna, creating a living tapestry of motion. The crowd
(14:51):
watched in all their eyes, following every twist and turn
of the dancer's bodies. As the sun dipped below the horizon,
the first transformed into a more debased celebration. The streets
filled with the sound of drunken cackles, and tables groaned
under the weight of lavish feasts. Wine flowed freely, and
(15:12):
the rich aroma of roasted meat filled the air. When
the temple, prostitutes and enslaved children filled the streets, Joseph
knew it was his time to leave. He walked the
path back to Potiphar's house. The summer air was humid
and thick enough to run a blade through. Joseph was
weary from the festivities. Times like these reminded him that
(15:33):
he was a stranger in this land, a Hebrew among Egyptians.
Yet the night brought some solace. Potiphar's entire household was gone,
save but for a few guards standing at the entrance.
Joseph enjoyed the quiet, using the opportunity to organize a
few things in the house. He paced in the halls
of Potiphar's quarters, organizing scrolls and polishing statues. The torches
(15:57):
illuminated ornate tapestries and trophies of conquest. It was against
this backdrop that Joseph saw a shadow approaching, hymns, swinging
to and fro in a familiar motion.
Speaker 3 (16:09):
No, well, not again, not here.
Speaker 1 (16:12):
Joseph turned to see Potiphar's wife leaning against the entrance.
Speaker 5 (16:17):
Why aren't you celebrating with the others, Most even slaves
revel in the festival. We celebrate the creation, a knight
of endless possibilities.
Speaker 4 (16:31):
I am a Hebrew.
Speaker 3 (16:32):
We have a different creation story, not one of conquest
and dominance, but of truth and order spoken to chaos.
Speaker 5 (16:40):
How poetic?
Speaker 3 (16:41):
Tell me more?
Speaker 1 (16:43):
Potiphar's wife inched closer, longing reflected in her coalined eyes.
Speaker 3 (16:48):
I don't think you're here to listen to Hebrew stories.
Speaker 5 (16:53):
You're smart, no wonder you're so respected and soft.
Speaker 1 (16:59):
After she closed the door, the sound of wood against
the beams echoed across the empty halls.
Speaker 3 (17:07):
No mistress, I told you I can't.
Speaker 6 (17:11):
We are alone, Joseph, all alone.
Speaker 1 (17:17):
She licked her finger and snuffed one of the candles.
The room was now dimmer, but somehow hotter. Joseph was
getting flustered.
Speaker 3 (17:26):
I won't sin against my master or my God.
Speaker 6 (17:30):
Here and now I am your master and God.
Speaker 1 (17:37):
Potiphar's wife seized Joseph by the belt of his garment
and pulled in forcibly. This time there was a deep
rage within her.
Speaker 6 (17:45):
Lessen to me, slave, you are still owned by this household.
You are still owned by me.
Speaker 3 (17:54):
That may be so, But before you and my master,
I am owned by another. Not sin against my guard.
Speaker 6 (18:02):
To the nile with your God, lie with me, or
face the consequences.
Speaker 1 (18:07):
Joseph, out of options, decided to run. With his garments
still in her hand. Joseph fled out of his room.
The garment slid off his body, and Joseph ran naked
through the halls. Just as he turned the corner, he
heard a loud scream echo through the entire home. Joseph
knew at that moment that he was in desperate trouble.
Potiva's wife screamed and called for the guards. Joseph looked
(18:31):
back and saw them rush into his room.
Speaker 5 (18:34):
He attagged me. This Hebrew slave lured me into sleep
with me, but I screamed.
Speaker 3 (18:40):
Quickly he went that way.
Speaker 1 (18:42):
Joseph held his head low. He didn't run, he didn't quarrel.
He knew it would be an admission of guilt if
he fought. He simply held his hands up and allowed
the guards to tackle him to the floor. Joseph was beaten.
He dragged to Potiphar by his hair. Potiphar sat at
his polished desk, holding Joseph's garment in his hand. His
(19:05):
wife was crying behind, being consoled by her maid servants.
Tied up and bruised, Joseph stood before Potiphar, much like
he had eight years ago.
Speaker 4 (19:16):
So this is how you repay.
Speaker 3 (19:18):
My kindness, Master, I promise you.
Speaker 2 (19:23):
I save you from the ishmaelite trader. I brought you
into my home. I give you charge over everything I have,
and this is what you give me. You assault my
wife and make a mockery of me.
Speaker 1 (19:38):
Joseph's eyes began to water. He saw in Potiphar the
same deep well of hatred his brothers once had. Joseph
breathed in deeply, and looked Potiphar in the eye.
Speaker 3 (19:49):
You are my master and my friend. Have I not
earned you trust? By now? I tell you I've done
nothing wrong? It's a lie. Please you must believe.
Speaker 1 (20:00):
Potiphar was silent for a long moment. He leaned over
his desk with his head held low. Joseph watched his
grip tighten on the desk edges.
Speaker 4 (20:11):
Believe you.
Speaker 2 (20:14):
Believe few believe a foreigner over my own wife. Believe
a Hebrew slave over the words of my beloved bride.
Speaker 1 (20:26):
Potipha looked up with complete rage and contempt.
Speaker 2 (20:29):
Did I not warn you that I would kill you
if you disobeyed me?
Speaker 1 (20:36):
As he yelled this, Potipha drew his sword and swung
at the desk. The desk shattered and frayed into dozens
of pieces. The desk Joseph had cleaned every day for
eight years was in shamls. Potipha pointed his sword at Joseph.
Speaker 2 (20:52):
You will rot in twison for the rest of your
day's Hebrew take him away.
Speaker 1 (21:00):
In an instant, Joseph was taken up by the guards
and thrown into the royal prison where Pharaoh's prisoners were confined.
He fell down the jagged steps onto the cold damp
stone beneath. He looked up, looking at the last light
of the prison hallway disappear. As he peered up, he
saw the faces of his brothers scowling at him from above.
(21:24):
Joseph was once again in the pit. This Prey Dog
conproduction is only made possible by our dedicated team of
creative talents. Steve Gattina, Max Bard, Zack Sllebager, and Ben
Gammon are the executive producers of The Chosen People. Narrated
(21:44):
by Paul Coltefianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato,
Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Stephen Ringwald, Sylvia Zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Junior,
Rosanna Pilcher, and Mitch Leshinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith,
written by Aaron Salvato, bre Rosalie and Chris bag You
(22:05):
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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