t12papocrypha
Testament of Joseph 15
The Ishmaelites learn Joseph's true lineage — that he is no ordinary slave but the son of Jacob, a man mighty with God and with men — and fear the weight of that bloodline discovering what they have done. Joseph again restrains his grief to shield his brothers from exposure. The merchants then negotiate with Potiphar's house to confirm clean title, distancing the sale from judgment. Every transactional detail underscores the master type: Joseph moves deeper into bondage through men's fear and commerce, the hidden preparation season advancing precisely because those who sold him cannot afford to be found holding him.
1
Now, after four and twenty days came the Ishmaelites; and having heard that Jacob my father was mourning because of me, they said unto me,
2
How is it that thou saidst that thou wert a slave? and lo, we have learnt that thou art the son of a mighty man in the land of Canaan, and thy father grieveth for thee in sackcloth.
3
And again I would have wept, but I restrained myself, that I should not put my brethren to shame. And I said, I know not, I am a slave.
4
Then they take counsel to sell me, that I should not be found in their hands.
5
For they feared Jacob, lest he should work upon them a deadly vengeance. For it had been heard that he was mighty with the Lord and with men.
6
Then said the merchant unto them, Release me from the judgment of Potiphar.
7
They therefore came and asked for me, saying, He was bought by us with money. And he sent us away.
