Coming of Age

In addition to the saga of national destiny being played out through the agency of Joseph, his own ethical and religious development is monitored by the biblical text.

We initially encounter Joseph, age seventeen, lording his preferential status over his brothers. He flaunts his ornamental tunic and his bombastic dreams without restraint, engendering his brothers' unbridled enmity. His pretentiousness and egocentricity incur such hostility that they conspire to kill him.

But reality dealt Joseph crushing blows. He found himself alone at the bottom of a pit, sold into slavery by nomadic traders. Just when he thought he had hit rock bottom, there was a remarkable turn of events. He was sold to Potiphar, the chief steward in Pharaoh's court. With the aid of divine providence, Joseph rises through the ranks. During his advance his trying experiences lend him wisdom and perspective. By the time he is faced with the trial of Mrs. Potiphar's advances, Joseph exhibits a newfound level of maturity, placing God at the center of his universe.