t12papocrypha
Testament of Joseph 9
Joseph narrates Potiphar's wife's repeated attempts to seduce him by offering freedom from prison in exchange for compliance, and his refusal in thought and act alike. The Most High God — El Elyon, named explicitly — is identified as the one who discerns the heart's motive and grants honor to chastity when that honor serves His purposes. The pattern deepens: imprisonment is not punishment but the season of hidden preparation, and the tempter's offer of premature release is itself the test. Jehovah guards the type, keeping Joseph sealed in the dark chamber until the appointed time.
1
How often hath she sent unto me, saying, Consent to fulfil my desire, and I will release thee from thy bonds, and I will free thee from the darkness!
2
And not even in thoughts did I incline unto her. For God loveth him who in a den of darkness fasteth with chastity, rather than him who in secret chambers liveth delicately without restraint.
3
And whosoever liveth in chastity, and desireth also glory, and if the Most High knoweth that it is expedient for him, He bestoweth this also upon him, even as upon me.
4
How often, though she were sick, did she come down to me at unlooked-for times, and listened to my voice as I prayed! And when I heard her groanings I held my peace.
5
For when I was in her house she was wont to bare her arms, and breasts, and legs, that I might fall before her; for she was very beautiful, splendidly adorned for my deception. And the Lord guarded me from her devices.
