Joseph's wife, according to the biblical narrative found in the book of Genesis, was Asenath. The story of Joseph and his wife is a fascinating and integral part of the broader narrative of Joseph's life and his role in the history of Israel. To fully understand who Asenath was and her significance, it is essential to delve into the context and details provided in the Scriptures.
Joseph's story begins in Genesis 37, where he is introduced as the favored son of Jacob (also known as Israel). He is sold into slavery by his jealous brothers and ends up in Egypt. Despite the hardships he faces, including being falsely accused and imprisoned, Joseph rises to prominence due to his God-given ability to interpret dreams. This ability brings him to the attention of Pharaoh, the ruler of Egypt, who has troubling dreams that none of his advisors can interpret.
In Genesis 41, Joseph is summoned to interpret Pharaoh's dreams, which he does with divine insight, predicting seven years of plenty followed by seven years of severe famine. Impressed by Joseph's wisdom and discernment, Pharaoh elevates him to a position of great power, second only to Pharaoh himself. It is at this point that Joseph is given Asenath as his wife:
"Pharaoh gave Joseph the name Zaphenath-Paneah and gave him Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On, to be his wife. And Joseph went throughout the land of Egypt." (Genesis 41:45, NIV)
Asenath's name and her background are significant. She is described as the daughter of Potiphera, the priest of On. On, also known as Heliopolis, was a major city in ancient Egypt known for its worship of the sun god Ra. Potiphera, therefore, was a high-ranking religious figure in Egyptian society. Asenath's marriage to Joseph symbolizes a union between the Hebrew and Egyptian cultures, highlighting Joseph's integration into Egyptian society while maintaining his faith in the God of Israel.
The marriage to Asenath is noteworthy for several reasons. First, it represents Joseph's acceptance and high status in Egyptian society. Despite being a foreigner and a former slave, Joseph's wisdom and divine favor elevate him to a position where he is given a wife from a prominent Egyptian family. This union likely facilitated Joseph's acceptance and effectiveness in his new role as the administrator of Egypt's resources during the years of plenty and famine.
Second, the marriage to Asenath and the birth of their two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, have significant implications for the future of the Israelite tribes. In Genesis 41:50-52, we read:
"Before the years of famine came, two sons were born to Joseph by Asenath daughter of Potiphera, priest of On. Joseph named his firstborn Manasseh and said, 'It is because God has made me forget all my trouble and all my father's household.' The second son he named Ephraim and said, 'It is because God has made me fruitful in the land of my suffering.'"
Manasseh and Ephraim would later become two of the tribes of Israel, with Ephraim in particular playing a prominent role in the history of the northern kingdom of Israel. Jacob, before his death, blesses Joseph's two sons and adopts them as his own, giving them an inheritance among the tribes of Israel (Genesis 48).
The story of Joseph and Asenath also carries symbolic and theological significance. Joseph's journey from suffering to exaltation, and his marriage to Asenath, can be seen as a foreshadowing of the broader biblical theme of redemption and reconciliation. Joseph, who suffered unjustly, becomes a savior not only for Egypt but also for his own family, who come to Egypt seeking food during the famine. This narrative prefigures the ultimate redemption that comes through Jesus Christ, who also suffered unjustly and brought salvation to the world.
Furthermore, Joseph's marriage to Asenath highlights the inclusivity of God's plan. While the Israelites were chosen as God's people, the inclusion of Asenath, an Egyptian, in the lineage of Israel demonstrates that God's purposes transcend ethnic and cultural boundaries. This foreshadows the New Testament revelation that the gospel is for all people, Jew and Gentile alike.
Christian literature and tradition have also reflected on the character of Asenath. While the Bible does not provide extensive details about her personality or actions, some extra-biblical sources, such as the ancient Jewish work "Joseph and Asenath," offer imaginative expansions on her story. Though not considered canonical, these writings provide insight into how early Jewish and Christian communities may have viewed her role and significance.
In summary, Asenath, the wife of Joseph, is a figure of considerable importance in the biblical narrative. Her marriage to Joseph signifies his acceptance and high status in Egyptian society and symbolizes the integration of different cultures within God's redemptive plan. The birth of their sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, has lasting implications for the history of Israel. The story of Joseph and Asenath, with its themes of suffering, redemption, and inclusivity, continues to inspire and instruct believers in understanding God's purposes and the unfolding of His plan throughout history.
