t12papocrypha
Testament of Joseph 11
Joseph, sold into Egypt, conceals his lineage from the Ishmaelites to shield his brethren from shame — a voluntary bearing of disgrace that mirrors the servant-pattern of the Holy Order. Though his bearing betrays him as no slave, he holds the cover. The Lord honors this concealment by turning it to gain: Jehovah grants Joseph favor with an Egyptian merchant, blesses that household for Joseph's sake, and begins positioning him for the appointed elevation. The season of hidden preparation opens. The prison-phase of the master type is now underway.
1
Do ye also, therefore, have the fear of God in your works, and honour your brethren. For every one who worketh the law of the Lord shall be loved by Him.
2
And when I came to the Indocolpitæ with the Ishmaelites, they asked me, and I said that I was a slave from their house, that I might not put my brethren to shame.
3
And the eldest of them said unto me, Thou art not a slave, for even thy appearance doth make it manifest concerning thee. And he threatened me even unto death. But I said that I was their slave.
4
Now when we came into Egypt, they strove concerning me, which of them should buy me and take me.
5
Therefore it seemed good to all that I should remain in Egypt with a merchant of their trade, until they should return bringing merchandise.
6
And the Lord gave me favour in the eyes of the merchant, and he entrusted unto me his house.
7
And the Lord blessed him by my means, and increased him in silver and gold, and I was with him three months and five days.
