Genesis 39:9

Genesis 39:9 in Multiple Translations

Berean Standard Bible BSB

No one in this house is greater than I am. He has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. So how could I do such a great evil and sin against God?”

King James Version KJV

There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

American Standard Version ASV

he is not greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back anything from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

Bible in Basic English BBE

So that no one has more authority in this house than I have; he has kept nothing back from me but you, because you are his wife; how then may I do this great wrong, sinning against God?

Free Bible Version FBV

no one in this house has more authority than me! He hasn't held back anything from me except you, because you are his wife. So how could I do such an evil thing as this, and sin against God?”

Geneva Bible 1599 GNV

There is no man greater in this house then I: neither hath he kept any thing from me, but only thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickednes and so sinne against God?

Young's Literal Translation YLT

none is greater in this house than I, and he hath not withheld from me anything, except thee, because thou [art] his wife; and how shall I do this great evil? — then have I sinned against God.'

World English Bible WEB

No one is greater in this house than I am, and he has not kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?”

Noah Webster Bible WBS

There is none greater in his house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?

Douay-Rheims 1899 DRV

Neither is there any thing which is not in my power, or that he hath not delivered to me, but thee, who art his wife: how then can I do this wicked thing, and sin against my God?

Translation for Translators T4T

No one in this household has more authority than I do. The only thing that he has not allowed me to have is you, because you are his wife! So ◄how could I do this wicked thing that you are asking me to do?/I certainly could not do this wicked thing!► [RHQ] I would be sinning against God if I did that!”

Plain English Version PEV

He made me the most important person in his house. He made me the boss of everything here. There’s only one thing he will not let me touch. He will not let me touch you, because you are his wife. So I will not sleep with you. I will not go against God and do that wrong thing. No way.”

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Berean Amplified Bible — Genesis 39:9

BAB

Word Study

Hover over any word to see its amplified meaning. Click a word to explore its full definition and translation comparisons.

Amplified text is generated using scripting to tie together English translations for comparison. Always refer to the core BSB translation and original Hebrew/Greek text for accuracy. Anomalies may occur.

Genesis 39:9 Interlinear (Deep Study)

BIB

HEB אֵינֶ֨/נּוּ גָד֜וֹל בַּ/בַּ֣יִת הַ/זֶּה֮ מִמֶּ/נִּי֒ וְ/לֹֽא חָשַׂ֤ךְ מִמֶּ֨/נִּי֙ מְא֔וּמָה כִּ֥י אִם אוֹתָ֖/ךְ בַּ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר אַתְּ אִשְׁתּ֑/וֹ וְ/אֵ֨יךְ אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֜ה הָ/רָעָ֤ה הַ/גְּדֹלָה֙ הַ/זֹּ֔את וְ/חָטָ֖אתִי לֵֽ/אלֹהִֽים

אֵינֶ֨/נּוּ ʼayin H369 nothing Part | Suff

גָד֜וֹל gâdôwl H1419 Great (Sea) Adj

בַּ/בַּ֣יִת bayith H1004 place Prep | N-ms

הַ/זֶּה֮ zeh H2088 this Art | Pron

מִמֶּ/נִּי֒ min H4480 from Prep | Suff

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 not Conj | Part

חָשַׂ֤ךְ châsak H2820 to withhold V-Qal-Perf-3ms

מִמֶּ֨/נִּי֙ min H4480 from Prep | Suff

מְא֔וּמָה mᵉʼûwmâh H3972 anything N-fs

כִּ֥י kîy H3588 for Conj

אִם ʼim H518 if Conj

אוֹתָ֖/ךְ ʼêth H853 Obj. DirObjM | Suff

בַּ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 which Prep | Rel

אַתְּ ʼattâh H859 you(m.s.) Pron

אִשְׁתּ֑/וֹ ʼishshâh H802 woman N-fs | Suff

וְ/אֵ֨יךְ ʼêyk H349 how? Conj | Part

אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֜ה ʻâsâh H6213 to make V-Qal-Imperf-1cs

הָ/רָעָ֤ה raʻ H7451 bad Art | N-fs

הַ/גְּדֹלָה֙ gâdôwl H1419 Great (Sea) Art | Adj

הַ/זֹּ֔את zôʼth H2063 this Art | Pron

וְ/חָטָ֖אתִי châṭâʼ H2398 to sin Conj | V-Qal-1cs

לֵֽ/אלֹהִֽים ʼĕlôhîym H430 God Prep | N-mp

Hebrew Word Study

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Hebrew Word Reference — Genesis 39:9

אֵינֶ֨/נּוּ ʼayin H369 "nothing" Part | Suff

This word means nothing or not, often used to indicate the absence of something, as in Genesis 1:2 where the earth was without form. It emphasizes the idea of something lacking or non-existent.

Definition: 1) nothing, not, nought n 1a) nothing, nought neg 1b) not 1c) to have not (of possession) adv 1d) without w/prep 1e) for lack of

Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: else, except, fail, (father-) less, be gone, in(-curable), neither, never, no (where), none, nor, (any, thing), not, nothing, to nought, past, un(-searchable), well-nigh, without. Compare H370 (אַיִן). See also: Genesis 2:5; Deuteronomy 14:27; 1 Kings 15:22.

גָד֜וֹל gâdôwl H1419 "Great (Sea)" Adj

In the Bible, this Hebrew word means something or someone great, whether in size, age, or importance. It appears in descriptions of the Great Sea and the Philistines. The word is used to convey a sense of magnitude or grandeur.

Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)

Usage: Occurs in 499 OT verses. KJV: [phrase] aloud, elder(-est), [phrase] exceeding(-ly), [phrase] far, (man of) great (man, matter, thing,-er,-ness), high, long, loud, mighty, more, much, noble, proud thing, [idiom] sore, ([idiom]) very. See also: Genesis 1:16; Joshua 7:26; 1 Kings 20:13.

בַּ/בַּ֣יִת bayith H1004 "place" Prep | N-ms

The Hebrew word for house refers to a dwelling place, including a family home, temple, or even the human body. It appears in various contexts, such as the temple in Jerusalem or the household of a family. In the Bible, it is often used to describe a place of worship or a family's living space.

Definition: nm place, origin, between

Usage: Occurs in 1712 OT verses. KJV: court, daughter, door, [phrase] dungeon, family, [phrase] forth of, [idiom] great as would contain, hangings, home(born), (winter) house(-hold), inside(-ward), palace, place, [phrase] prison, [phrase] steward, [phrase] tablet, temple, web, [phrase] within(-out). See also: Genesis 6:14; Exodus 8:5; Numbers 1:45.

הַ/זֶּה֮ zeh H2088 "this" Art | Pron

This word is a pronoun meaning this or that, used to point out a specific person or thing. It appears in many contexts, including Genesis and Psalms, to indicate something specific. The KJV translates it as he, here, or it.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, another, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 1061 OT verses. KJV: he, [idiom] hence, [idiom] here, it(-self), [idiom] now, [idiom] of him, the one...the other, [idiom] than the other, ([idiom] out of) the (self) same, such (a one) that, these, this (hath, man), on this side...on that side, [idiom] thus, very, which. Compare H2063 (זֹאת), H2090 (זֹה), H2097 (זוֹ), H2098 (זוּ). See also: Genesis 5:1; Exodus 10:17; Numbers 14:16.

מִמֶּ/נִּי֒ min H4480 "from" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.

Definition: prep 1) from, out of, on account of, off, on the side of, since, above, than, so that not, more than 1a) from (expressing separation), off, on the side of 1b) out of 1b1) (with verbs of proceeding, removing, expelling) 1b2) (of material from which something is made) 1b3) (of source or origin) 1c) out of, some of, from (partitively) 1d) from, since, after (of time) 1e) than, more than (in comparison) 1f) from...even to, both...and, either...or 1g) than, more than, too much for (in comparisons) 1h) from, on account of, through, because (with infinitive) conj 2) that Aramaic equivalent: min (מִן־ "from" H4481)

Usage: Occurs in 1094 OT verses. KJV: above, after, among, at, because of, by (reason of), from (among), in, [idiom] neither, [idiom] nor, (out) of, over, since, [idiom] then, through, [idiom] whether, with. See also: Genesis 2:6; Exodus 16:32; Leviticus 14:26.

וְ/לֹֽא lôʼ H3808 "not" Conj | Part

The Hebrew word for not or no is used to indicate absence or negation, as when God says no to the Israelites' requests, or when they disobey His commands.

Definition: 1) not, no 1a) not (with verb-absolute prohibition) 1b) not (with modifier-negation) 1c) nothing (subst) 1d) without (with particle) 1e) before (of time) Aramaic equivalent: la (לָא "not" H3809)

Usage: Occurs in 3967 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] before, [phrase] or else, ere, [phrase] except, ig(-norant), much, less, nay, neither, never, no((-ne), -r, (-thing)), ([idiom] as though...,(can-), for) not (out of), of nought, otherwise, out of, [phrase] surely, [phrase] as truly as, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] verily, for want, [phrase] whether, without. See also: Genesis 2:5; Genesis 31:15; Exodus 4:9.

חָשַׂ֤ךְ châsak H2820 "to withhold" V-Qal-Perf-3ms

This verb means to withhold or restrain something. It can also mean to spare, preserve, or observe. In the Bible, it is used to describe holding back or keeping something for oneself.

Definition: 1) to withhold, restrain, hold back, keep in check, refrain 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to withhold, keep back, keep for oneself, keep from, hold in check, refrain, spare, reserve 1a2) to restrain, check 1b) (Niphal) to assuage, be spared

Usage: Occurs in 27 OT verses. KJV: assuage, [idiom] darken, forbear, hinder, hold back, keep (back), punish, refrain, reserve, spare, withhold. See also: Genesis 20:6; Job 33:18; Psalms 19:14.

מִמֶּ֨/נִּי֙ min H4480 "from" Prep | Suff

This Hebrew word means a portion or part of something, and is often used to show the relationship between things, like from or out of something.

מְא֔וּמָה mᵉʼûwmâh H3972 "anything" N-fs

This word refers to something, no matter how small, or nothing at all. It's used in phrases like 'anything' or 'nothing'. The Bible uses it in various books to convey the idea of something or nothing.

Definition: anything

Usage: Occurs in 32 OT verses. KJV: fault, [phrase] no(-ught), ought, somewhat, any (no-)thing. See also: Genesis 22:12; 1 Samuel 25:15; Jeremiah 39:10.

כִּ֥י kîy H3588 "for" Conj

A conjunction used to show cause or connection, as in Genesis 2:23 where Adam says the woman is bone of his bone because she was taken out of him. It is often translated as 'for', 'because', or 'since'.

Definition: 1) that, for, because, when, as though, as, because that, but, then, certainly, except, surely, since 1a) that 1a1) yea, indeed 1b) when (of time) 1b1) when, if, though (with a concessive force) 1c) because, since (causal connection) 1d) but (after negative) 1e) that if, for if, indeed if, for though, but if 1f) but rather, but 1g) except that 1h) only, nevertheless 1i) surely 1j) that is 1k) but if 1l) for though 1m) forasmuch as, for therefore

Usage: Occurs in 3910 OT verses. KJV: and, + (forasmuch, inasmuch, where-) as, assured(-ly), + but, certainly, doubtless, + else, even, + except, for, how, (because, in, so, than) that, + nevertheless, now, rightly, seeing, since, surely, then, therefore, + (al-) though, + till, truly, + until, when, whether, while, whom, yea, yet. See also: Genesis 1:4; Genesis 26:16; Genesis 42:15.

אִם ʼim H518 "if" Conj

This Hebrew word is used to express conditions or questions, like if or whether. It can also be used to make oaths or express wishes, as in Oh that! It appears in various forms in the KJV, including if, though, and when.

Definition: : if/whether_or/though 1) if 1a) conditional clauses 1a1) of possible situations 1a2) of impossible situations 1b) oath contexts 1b1) no, not 1c) if...if, whether...or, whether...or...or 1d) when, whenever 1e) since 1f) interrogative particle 1g) but rather

Usage: Occurs in 931 OT verses. KJV: (and, can-, doubtless, if, that) (not), [phrase] but, either, [phrase] except, [phrase] more(-over if, than), neither, nevertheless, nor, oh that, or, [phrase] save (only, -ing), seeing, since, sith, [phrase] surely (no more, none, not), though, [phrase] of a truth, [phrase] unless, [phrase] verily, when, whereas, whether, while, [phrase] yet. See also: Genesis 4:7; Exodus 22:3; Leviticus 27:27.

אוֹתָ֖/ךְ ʼêth H853 "Obj." DirObjM | Suff

In the original Hebrew, this word points out the object of a verb or preposition, like 'namely' or 'even'. It appears in many books, including Genesis and Exodus. It's not directly translated in English, but helps clarify the meaning of sentences.

Definition: sign of the definite direct object, not translated in English but generally preceding and indicating the accusative Aramaic equivalent: yat (יָת "whom" H3487)

Usage: Occurs in 6782 OT verses. KJV: (as such unrepresented in English). See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 10:8; Genesis 19:21.

בַּ/אֲשֶׁ֣ר ʼăsher H834 "which" Prep | Rel

This Hebrew word is a conjunction that connects ideas and events in the Bible, like in the book of Genesis, where it's used to describe the relationship between God and His creation.

Definition: A: 1) (relative part.) 1a) which, who 1b) that which 2) (conj) 2a) that (in obj clause) 2b) when 2c) since 2d) as 2e) conditional if B: Beth+ 1) in (that) which 2) (adv) 2a) where 3) (conj) 3a) in that, inasmuch as 3b) on account of C: Mem+ 1) from (or than) that which 2) from (the place) where 3) from (the fact) that, since D: Kaph+ 1) (conj.), according as, as, when 1a) according to that which, according as, as 1b) with a causal force: in so far as, since 1c) with a temporal force: when

Usage: Occurs in 4440 OT verses. KJV: [idiom] after, [idiom] alike, as (soon as), because, [idiom] every, for, [phrase] forasmuch, [phrase] from whence, [phrase] how(-soever), [idiom] if, (so) that ((thing) which, wherein), [idiom] though, [phrase] until, [phrase] whatsoever, when, where ([phrase] -as, -in, -of, -on, -soever, -with), which, whilst, [phrase] whither(-soever), who(-m, -soever, -se). As it is indeclinable, it is often accompanied by the personal pronoun expletively, used to show the connection. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 20:9; Genesis 31:16.

אַתְּ ʼattâh H859 "you(m.s.)" Pron

You is the translation of a Hebrew word used to address someone directly, like when God says you to someone in the Bible. It can be singular or plural, and is often translated as thee, thou, or ye.

Definition: you (second pers. sing. masc.)

Usage: Occurs in 997 OT verses. KJV: thee, thou, ye, you. See also: Genesis 3:11; Exodus 23:9; Deuteronomy 14:1.

אִשְׁתּ֑/וֹ ʼishshâh H802 "woman" N-fs | Suff

The Hebrew word for woman, used to describe a female person, wife, or animal, appears in many biblical passages, including Genesis and Exodus, and is often translated as woman, wife, or female.

Definition: : woman 1) woman, wife, female 1a) woman (opposite of man) 1b) wife (woman married to a man) 1c) female (of animals) 1d) each, every (pronoun)

Usage: Occurs in 686 OT verses. KJV: (adulter) ess, each, every, female, [idiom] many, [phrase] none, one, [phrase] together, wife, woman. Often unexpressed in English. See also: Genesis 2:22; Genesis 34:4; Numbers 5:12.

וְ/אֵ֨יךְ ʼêyk H349 "how?" Conj | Part

In the Bible, this word means 'how' or 'where', like in Genesis when God asks Adam 'where are you'. It's also used to express surprise or excitement.

Definition: interrog adv how?

Usage: Occurs in 74 OT verses. KJV: how, what. See also: Genesis 26:9; Ecclesiastes 2:16; Psalms 11:1.

אֶֽעֱשֶׂ֜ה ʻâsâh H6213 "to make" V-Qal-Imperf-1cs

This verb means to make or do something, and is used over 2,600 times in the Bible. It is first used in Genesis 1:7 to describe God's creation of the world and is also used in Exodus 31:5 to describe the work of skilled craftsmen.

Definition: : make(OBJECT) 1) to do, fashion, accomplish, make 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to do, work, make, produce 1a1a) to do 1a1b) to work 1a1c) to deal (with) 1a1d) to act, act with effect, effect 1a2) to make 1a2a) to make 1a2b) to produce 1a2c) to prepare 1a2d) to make (an offering) 1a2e) to attend to, put in order 1a2f) to observe, celebrate 1a2g) to acquire (property) 1a2h) to appoint, ordain, institute 1a2i) to bring about 1a2j) to use 1a2k) to spend, pass 1b) (Niphal) 1b1) to be done 1b2) to be made 1b3) to be produced 1b4) to be offered 1b5) to be observed 1b6) to be used 1c) (Pual) to be made

Usage: Occurs in 2286 OT verses. KJV: accomplish, advance, appoint, apt, be at, become, bear, bestow, bring forth, bruise, be busy, [idiom] certainly, have the charge of, commit, deal (with), deck, [phrase] displease, do, (ready) dress(-ed), (put in) execute(-ion), exercise, fashion, [phrase] feast, (fight-) ing man, [phrase] finish, fit, fly, follow, fulfill, furnish, gather, get, go about, govern, grant, great, [phrase] hinder, hold (a feast), [idiom] indeed, [phrase] be industrious, [phrase] journey, keep, labour, maintain, make, be meet, observe, be occupied, offer, [phrase] officer, pare, bring (come) to pass, perform, pracise, prepare, procure, provide, put, requite, [idiom] sacrifice, serve, set, shew, [idiom] sin, spend, [idiom] surely, take, [idiom] thoroughly, trim, [idiom] very, [phrase] vex, be (warr-) ior, work(-man), yield, use. See also: Genesis 1:7; Genesis 34:19; Exodus 18:24.

הָ/רָעָ֤ה raʻ H7451 "bad" Art | N-fs

Ra means bad or evil, referring to moral or natural harm. It describes adversity, affliction, or distress, and is often used to convey a sense of misery or injury.

Definition: : harmful adj 1) bad, evil 1a) bad, disagreeable, malignant 1b) bad, unpleasant, evil (giving pain, unhappiness, misery) 1c) evil, displeasing 1d) bad (of its kind-land, water, etc) 1e) bad (of value) 1f) worse than, worst (comparison) 1g) sad, unhappy 1h) evil (hurtful) 1i) bad, unkind (vicious in disposition) 1j) bad, evil, wicked (ethically) 1j1) in general, of persons, of thoughts 1j2) deeds, actions

Usage: Occurs in 623 OT verses. KJV: adversity, affliction, bad, calamity, [phrase] displease(-ure), distress, evil((-favouredness), man, thing), [phrase] exceedingly, [idiom] great, grief(-vous), harm, heavy, hurt(-ful), ill (favoured), [phrase] mark, mischief(-vous), misery, naught(-ty), noisome, [phrase] not please, sad(-ly), sore, sorrow, trouble, vex, wicked(-ly, -ness, one), worse(-st), wretchedness, wrong. (Incl. feminine raaah; as adjective or noun.). See also: Genesis 2:9; Judges 9:57; 2 Kings 21:6.

הַ/גְּדֹלָה֙ gâdôwl H1419 "Great (Sea)" Art | Adj

Definition: adj great Also named: pe.lish.ti (פְּלִשְׁתִּי "(Sea of the )Philistines" H6430I)

הַ/זֹּ֔את zôʼth H2063 "this" Art | Pron

This Hebrew word means this or that, often used to point out something specific. It appears in various forms throughout the Old Testament.

Definition: 1) this, this one, here, which, this...that, the one...the other, such 1a) (alone) 1a1) this one 1a2) this...that, the one...the other, another 1b) (appos to subst) 1b1) this 1c) (as predicate) 1c1) this, such 1d) (enclitically) 1d1) then 1d2) who, whom 1d3) how now, what now 1d4) what now 1d5) wherefore now 1d6) behold here 1d7) just now 1d8) now, now already 1e) (poetry) 1e1) wherein, which, those who 1f) (with prefixes) 1f1) in this (place) here, then 1f2) on these conditions, herewith, thus provided, by, through this, for this cause, in this matter 1f3) thus and thus 1f4) as follows, things such as these, accordingly, to that effect, in like manner, thus and thus 1f5) from here, hence, on one side...on the other side 1f6) on this account 1f7) in spite of this, which, whence, how

Usage: Occurs in 570 OT verses. KJV: hereby (-in, -with), it, likewise, the one (other, same), she, so (much), such (deed), that, therefore, these, this (thing), thus. See also: Genesis 2:23; Numbers 7:88; Judges 1:27.

וְ/חָטָ֖אתִי châṭâʼ H2398 "to sin" Conj | V-Qal-1cs

To sin means to miss the mark or go wrong, incurring guilt or penalty, and can also mean to repent or make amends. It is used in the Bible to describe wrongdoing and its consequences.

Definition: 1) to sin, miss, miss the way, go wrong, incur guilt, forfeit, purify from uncleanness 1a) (Qal) 1a1) to miss 1a2) to sin, miss the goal or path of right and duty 1a3) to incur guilt, incur penalty by sin, forfeit 1b) (Piel) 1b1) to bear loss 1b2) to make a sin-offering 1b3) to purify from sin 1b4) to purify from uncleanness 1c) (Hiphil) 1c1) to miss the mark 1c2) to induce to sin, cause to sin 1c3) to bring into guilt or condemnation or punishment 1d) (Hithpael) 1d1) to miss oneself, lose oneself, wander from the way 1d2) to purify oneself from uncleanness

Usage: Occurs in 220 OT verses. KJV: bear the blame, cleanse, commit (sin), by fault, harm he hath done, loss, miss, (make) offend(-er), offer for sin, purge, purify (self), make reconciliation, (cause, make) sin(-ful, -ness), trespass. See also: Genesis 20:6; 1 Kings 15:34; Psalms 4:5.

לֵֽ/אלֹהִֽים ʼĕlôhîym H430 "God" Prep | N-mp

The Hebrew word for God, elohim, refers to the one supreme God, and is sometimes used to show respect to judges or magistrates. It is also used to describe angels or mighty beings. This word is closely related to the name of the Lord, Yahweh, and is often translated as God or gods in the Bible.

Definition: This name means "gods" (plural intensive-singular meaning), "God" Another name of ye.ho.vah (יהוה "LORD" H3068G)

Usage: Occurs in 2246 OT verses. KJV: angels, [idiom] exceeding, God (gods) (-dess, -ly), [idiom] (very) great, judges, [idiom] mighty. See also: Genesis 1:1; Genesis 22:12; Exodus 3:11.

Study Notes — Genesis 39:9

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Context
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Genesis 39:9 Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Reflection Questions
Gill's Exposition on Genesis 39:9
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 39:9
Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 39:9
Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 39:9
Cambridge Bible on Genesis 39:9
Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 39:9
Sermons on Genesis 39:9

Context — Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife

7and after some time his master’s wife cast her eyes upon Joseph and said, “Sleep with me.” 8But he refused. “Look,” he said to his master’s wife, “with me here, my master does not concern himself with anything in his house, and he has entrusted everything he owns to my care.

9No one in this house is greater than I am. He has withheld nothing from me except you, because you are his wife. So how could I do such a great evil and sin against God?”

10Although Potiphar’s wife spoke to Joseph day after day, he refused to go to bed with her or even be near her. 11One day, however, Joseph went into the house to attend to his work, and not a single household servant was inside.

Cross References

	Reference	Text (BSB)
1	2 Samuel 12:13	Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the LORD.” “The LORD has taken away your sin,” Nathan replied. “You will not die.
2	Genesis 20:6	Then God said to Abimelech in the dream, “Yes, I know that you did this with a clear conscience, and so I have kept you from sinning against Me. That is why I did not let you touch her.
3	Genesis 42:18	and on the third day he said to them, “I fear God. So do this and you will live:
4	1 John 3:9	Anyone born of God refuses to practice sin, because God’s seed abides in him; he cannot go on sinning, because he has been born of God.
5	Galatians 5:19–21	The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity, and debauchery; idolatry and sorcery; hatred, discord, jealousy, and rage; rivalries, divisions, factions, and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
6	Luke 12:48	But the one who unknowingly does things worthy of punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded.
7	Psalms 51:4	Against You, You only, have I sinned and done what is evil in Your sight, so that You may be proved right when You speak and blameless when You judge.
8	1 Corinthians 4:2	Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.
9	Leviticus 6:2	“If someone sins and acts unfaithfully against the LORD by deceiving his neighbor in regard to a deposit or security entrusted to him or stolen, or if he extorts his neighbor
10	Jeremiah 50:7	All who found them devoured them, and their enemies said, ‘We are not guilty, for they have sinned against the LORD, their true pasture, the LORD, the hope of their fathers.’

Genesis 39:9 Summary

[Genesis 39:9 shows us that Joseph was a man of strong character and faith, who prioritized his relationship with God and refused to compromise his values, even when tempted by Potiphar's wife. He recognized that his actions would have consequences not just for himself, but also for his master and for God (as seen in Psalm 51:4). By standing firm in his convictions, Joseph demonstrated his trust in God's sovereignty and provision, just as we are encouraged to do in Proverbs 3:5-6. This verse reminds us that we too can trust in God and stand firm in our faith, even in the face of temptation or pressure.]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Joseph's statement that no one in the house is greater than him?

Joseph's statement in Genesis 39:9 highlights his recognition of his position of authority in Potiphar's household, but also his understanding of the boundaries set by his master, as seen in Genesis 39:8, where he notes that everything has been entrusted to his care except for Potiphar's wife.

Why does Joseph refuse to sin against God by sleeping with Potiphar's wife?

Joseph refuses to sin against God because he recognizes that his actions would not only be a betrayal of Potiphar's trust, but also a direct disobedience to God's commandments, as stated in Exodus 20:17, which prohibits adultery.

How does Joseph's response reflect his character and faith?

Joseph's response in Genesis 39:9 demonstrates his strong moral character and faith in God, as he prioritizes his integrity and obedience to God over personal gain or temptation, similar to the example of Daniel in Daniel 1:8, who also stood firm in his convictions despite pressure to compromise.

What can we learn from Joseph's example in this verse?

We can learn from Joseph's example the importance of standing firm in our faith and values, even in the face of temptation or pressure, and trusting in God's sovereignty and provision, as encouraged in Psalm 37:3-4, which reminds us to trust in the Lord and do good.

Reflection Questions

What are some areas in my life where I may be tempted to compromise my values or faith, and how can I stand firm like Joseph?
How can I prioritize my relationship with God and recognize His presence in my daily life, just as Joseph did in this situation?
In what ways can I demonstrate integrity and honesty in my own life, even when it's difficult or unpopular, like Joseph did in Genesis 39:9?
What are some ways that I can trust in God's sovereignty and provision, even when faced with challenging circumstances, as Joseph did in this verse?

Gill's Exposition on Genesis 39:9

[There is] none greater in this house than I,.... Not any of the servants of the house, he was the chief of them, who had all the rest under him; or rather, "he himself is not greater (q) in this

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown on Genesis 39:9

There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God? How then can I do this great wickedness?

Trapp's Commentary on Genesis 39:9

Genesis 39:9 [There is] none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back any thing from me but thee, because thou [art] his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?Ver. 9. Neither hath he kept back anything from me but thee.] As the beams of the sun shining upon fire doth discourage the burning of that, so should the shining of God’ s mercies or man’ s favours on us quench and quell lust and licentiousness in us. Because thou art his wife.] In primitiva ecclesia Christiani animo animaque inter se miscebantur, et omnia, praeter uxores, indiscreta habebant, saith Tertullian. Community of wives is a monster in religion. How then can I do this great wickedness? &c.] So he calls it; not a trick of youth, a light offence, a peccadillo; but "wickedness," and "great wickedhess." Abhorred be that religion of Rome that licenseth it; nothing better herein than that of the Turks, whose Koran tells us, that God did not give men lusts and appetites to be frustrated, but enjoyed; as made for the enjoyment of man, and not for his torment, wherein his Creator delights not. And sin against God.] Who makes the marriage covenant, and keepeth the bonds. Thus David, "Against thee, thee only, have I sinned," &c. The trespass was against Uriah, but the transgression against God, who only can remove the guilt, remit the punishment. And here, though the iron entered into Joseph’ s soul, sin could not; because it was fraught with: God’ s fear. He had "set God at his right hand," with David, and "therefore was not moved" by the importunate impudency of his wanton mistress. Satan knocked oft at that door, but there was none within to answer or open. He struck fire, but upon wet tinder. Joseph in Egypt, like a pearl in a puddle, keeps his virtue still, wherever he comes. Ensis, equus, mulier: caetera κοιναφιλων. Blunt’ s Voyage into the Levant, 82.

Adam Clarke's Commentary on Genesis 39:9

Verse 9. How then] ואיך veeik, and how? Joseph gives two most powerful reasons for his noncompliance with the wishes of his mistress: 1. Gratitude to his master, to whom he owed all that he had. 2. His fear of God, in whose sight it would be a heinous offence, and who would not fail to punish him for it. With the kindness of his master and the displeasure of God before his eyes, how could he be capable of committing an act of transgression, which would at once have distinguished him as the most ungrateful and the most worthless of men?

Cambridge Bible on Genesis 39:9

9. there is none greater] The margin, he is not, is correct. The rendering of the text is not only less accurate, but far less vigorous. The LXX and Vulg. have similarly missed the meaning. how then … against God] Observe how, in J, Elohim, not Jehovah, is used of God in a passage where Joseph is speaking to a non-Israelite. Joseph repels the immoral overtures of his master’s wife on the ground, (1) of honour towards the master who trusted him in everything; and (2) of goodness and virtue, the duty of a man living in the presence of God. “This great wickedness”; Joseph takes the simplest line of resisting temptation. The thing is wrong in God’s sight; and that is enough for him. Egyptologists have illustrated this part of Joseph’s story from the ancient Egyptian “Tale of the two brothers” (contained in the d’Orbiney Papyrus, 19th Dynasty), in which the wife of the elder seeks to seduce the honour of the younger. The tale belongs to the Egyptian literature of the 14th cent. b.c.1[56] [56] See Appendix E. “Against God”: the consciousness of the personal presence of Jehovah “made all sins to be actions directly done against Him” (Davidson). So the Psalmist, although confessing wrong against his fellow-men, says, “Against thee, thee only, have I sinned” (Psalms 51:4).

Whedon's Commentary on Genesis 39:9

9. This great wickedness — Joseph’s answer is most noble. He sees and shows the monstrous criminality of thus abusing his master’s confidence; it would be a double sin, wickedness against Potiphar, sin against God.

Sermons on Genesis 39:9

	Sermon	Description
	(A Marriage Blessed by God) 1. Build Your Home With Wisdom by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of building godly marriages and homes by focusing on the fear of the Lord, wisdom, and self-control. It highlights the need to prioritize reve
	(Genesis) Genesis 39:8-10 by J. Vernon McGee	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joseph from the Bible. He highlights Joseph's commitment to serving God and maintaining a high moral standard, even in a land f
	06 Purity in Sexual Matters by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding the heart of God when reading the Bible, highlighting the longing and grief God expresses for His people to follow His comman
	Lessons From the Pit by Teresa Conlon	The sermon is titled "Lessons from the Pit" and the speaker begins by praying for guidance and understanding from the Holy Spirit. The message focuses on the story of Joseph from t
	(Genesis) 55 - Joseph - Tested and Triumphant by S. Lewis Johnson	In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Joseph from the Bible. He highlights the pattern of humiliation and exaltation in Joseph's life, emphasizing that many of us fa
	Dynamic Daniel by Greg Locke	In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being careful about what we watch and listen to, as it can have a negative impact on our hearts and minds. He warns agains
	Young People, Accept God's Training by Zac Poonen	This sermon emphasizes the importance of making hard decisions and taking the path of faithfulness and discipline in various spheres of life. Drawing examples from biblical figures