Potiphar (2:26)

They would pay us a handsome sum.

Narrator (Storytelling) (2:28)

Of money for it. Joseph's cries for help were choked by the tightrope. Tears filled his eyes, his heart heavy with betrayal. The sun set, the stars taking its place. As Joseph was taken towards Egypt, a slave's fate awaiting him. He kept his gaze fixed south toward Canaan, the land he was leaving behind, the home that had betrayed him.

Joseph (2:56)

God, what have I done to deserve this?

Ryan Seacrest / Podcast Host (3:02)

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. The holiday season can be exhausting with all the parties and the end of year celebrations. But don't forget to take care of yourself by stocking up on your favorite nutritional products. Now through December 30, shop in store and online and save on items like Cliff Snack Bars, Luna Bars, Boost Nutritional Energy Drinks, Premier Protein Shakes, Z Bar Variety Packs Open Nature Powder and Body Fortress Protein powder. Offers end December 30th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

Advertiser (3:33)

Lately it seems like everything has unnecessary chemicals, and when I started looking into what I was actually using around my home, I realized my laundry detergent was the worst offender. Did you know traditional laundry detergent can leave harsh chemical residue on your clothes? Yeah. Neither did I. Turns out most popular detergents are packed with harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin, mess up your hormones and cause allergic reactions. But I don't want that stuff around my home, so I switch to Earth Breeze. Their detergent sheets are free from harsh chemicals like optical brighteners, dyes, parabens, phosphates and preservatives. And yes, your clothes still come out clean, fresh and soft. I feel so much better knowing I'm not exposing myself to those unnecessary toxins right now. You can try Earth Breeze for up to 40% off plus four free gifts@earthbreeze.com Tony that's earthbreeze.com Tony for 40% off plus four free gifts to Aina we.

Narrator (4:47)

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Slave Trader/Guard (5:17)

Get up, slave.

Narrator (Storytelling) (5:19)

We're here. Joseph stirred, his body aching from days spent tied to the back of a camel. He blinked against the brightness, the slender silhouette of the spice trader looming over him. With effort, he propped himself up, the cold ground taking its toll. For over a week, he had marched toward Egypt, the scorching eastern sun leaving scars on his back. His once muscular frame was deteriorating from lack of food. Groaning, Joseph rose to his feet, his legs trembling and bleeding from sores formed by the hot desert sand. The slave trader yanked on the rope around his neck, the coarse fibers rubbing his skin raw, making each step a torment. As they neared Egypt, the desolate desert gave way to a lush and thriving city. The gates towered higher than the hills of Canaan, and the architecture was more elaborate than anything Joseph had ever seen. To his left, prized horses were being bartered on the outskirts of the marketplace Deeper into the city, the bustling economy of Egypt unfolded before his eyes. Exotic animals and strange produce laced the marketplace. Despite the clamor, the people were elegant, even the merchants, carrying themselves with a regal bearing. Stories from his father had painted pictures of Egypt, but none matched the vibrant reality now before him. It was a world apart from his own. The small caravan came to a halt. Joseph captors tied him to a post alongside the camels and and entered a small tent. Joseph looked around, contemplating escape. His studies had given him a few words in Egyptian, and he overheard the slave trader bartering inside. He was about to be sold. Frantic, Joseph began rubbing the ropes around his wrists against the top of the post. Desperation fueled his efforts as he tugged and pulled with his teeth, trying to rip free from his bonds. Glancing at the tent, he saw the shadows of the men standing. An idea sparked as he noticed the camel tied to the same post. Using what little slack he had, Joseph picked up a small reed lying nearby. With precision, he struck the camel on the ramp. Startled, the camel bolted forward, pulling the wooden post out of the ground. Joseph, still bound, ran for his life. Using the commotion to his advantage, the slave trader and the buyer burst out of the tent and saw Joseph running.

Slave Trader/Guard (8:01)

Stop him.

Narrator (Storytelling) (8:02)

Joseph's breath came heavy and labored, his body weak from days without sufficient water or food. His legs burned as he raced through the streets, glancing back to see guards in pursuit. To his left, he spotted a large hole in a stone wall.

Joseph (8:18)

They can't fit in there, but I can.

Narrator (Storytelling) (8:21)

With a swift pivot, Joseph leaped for the opening. Swift, squeezing through without a scratch and losing the guards. Breathless, he paused to assess his surroundings. To his right was a well. To his left was a small pool where Egyptian women played with their children. Trying to appear inconspicuous, Joseph waited for the right moment, then dashed to the well. He leaned over the edge, lapping water with desperate gulps. Joseph celebrated for a brief moment. He hadn't had water in over a day. However, his joy was short lived. As his face was dipped into the well, he could feel a hand on the back of his head, forcing it deeper into the water. Joseph kicked and yelled, but it was no use. The man's hands were set firmly over his neck and head, keeping him down. Bubbles formed from his desperate cries for help. After what seemed like an eternity, Joseph's squirms became less animated, and as he slowly began to lose oxygen, as his eyes began to grow dim, he was released from the water and thrown onto the ground. Joseph coughed up water on impact and keeled over desperately trying to catch his breath. Before he could compose himself, he was kicked in the ringside. Joseph lay there holding his side, questioning his decision to run.

Joseph (9:41)

This is where they kill me.

Narrator (Storytelling) (9:43)

Looking up, he saw his captor, a tall older man, broad shouldered and imposing. He wore an immaculate breastplate and a headdress signifying authority. Clean shaven, like most Egyptians, he exuded power. The man dragged Joseph back to the tent where the slave trader was securing his camel. The trader sneered at Joseph, but quickly bowed when he saw his captor.

Slave Trader/Guard (10:09)

My lord, forgive me. The Hebrew rat escaped as I was bartering to sell him. You may kill him if you like, or I can do it myself.

Narrator (Storytelling) (10:22)

The Ishmaelite was trembling with fear. Whoever this man was, he was clearly very powerful. The man looked down at Joseph. His expression was cold and impassive. Joseph couldn't get a good read on how much trouble he was in. The man gestured to the slave trader.

Potiphar (10:40)

I will buy him off you.

Slave Trader/Guard (10:43)

You what?

Narrator (Storytelling) (10:46)

Joseph was just as surprised as the Ishmaelite. They looked up at the man, unable to understand his reasoning.

Potiphar (10:53)

I will give you 15 shekels of silver for him.

Narrator (Storytelling) (10:57)

The trader hesitated. Five shekels less than what he paid. But fear overrode his greed.

Slave Trader/Guard (11:06)

As you wish, Lord Potiphar. Please also accept some turmeric, freshly ground from the riverlands south of the Nile.

Narrator (Storytelling) (11:16)

Potiphar handed over the silver without another word, signaling his servant to bring his horse. The servant took the rope attached to Joseph's wrists and Potiphar mounted his horse, trotting away with a small entourage of guards.

Joseph (11:31)

I am Net, the keeper of the Lord Potiphar's slaves. Come, let's get you cleaned up.

Narrator (Storytelling) (11:37)

Can't have you muddying up the Lord Captain's home. Joseph could only make out a few Egyptian words. He nodded to the servant and replied to the best of his ability. The two walked side by side, with a small entourage of guards walking behind them. Net spoke slowly and patiently to Joseph, explaining who had just bought him. From what Joseph could understand, Potiphar was the captain of Pharaoh's royal guard and had authority over the city's security. As they approached Potiphar's estate, Joseph marveled at the lush vineyard to the left and the stables filled with prized horses to the right. The grandeur of the home surpassed anything he had imagined. They led him to the slave quarters, where he was stripped, shaven and bathed, wrapped in Egyptian linen. He was given stale bread and wine, the first real meal in over a week. He ate voraciously Afterward, Joseph was taken to Potiphar's home. Ivory pillars supported a roof over the large courtyard where Potiphar sat at his desk, fanned by palm fronds. Behind him lounged his wife, younger, beautiful, and adorned with fine jewelry. Joseph stood with his head bowed. Without looking up from his work, Potiphar spoke.

Potiphar (13:01)

As I witnessed in the marketplace, you are able to run fast. Not only this, but you were clever enough to escape my guards. While I would not recommend you running away again, your talents may prove useful to me. You will work in the vineyards and in my home. You will do your work fast and with great care. You will clean, you will cook, and you will do anything my servants ask of you. If you do not, I will kill or sell you. It is as simple as that.

Narrator (Storytelling) (13:32)

Joseph understood the gravity of Potiphar's words. He was no longer a favored son, but a slave. Yet he was determined to be the best slave and to work with diligence and humility.

Narrator (Storytelling) (13:50)

That night, Joseph lay awake. He peered through the window of the slave's quarters, staring up at the sky. The white noise of heavy snores and deep murmuring reminded him of his brothers. He surveyed the stars, searching for answers. He wondered if they were the same stars he would gaze upon in Canaan. Canaan, to Joseph, it seemed as far away as the stars themselves. He thought about his mother and father. He longed to hug them again. He closed his eyes and tried to remember the smell of fresh stew. He remembered running his hands through the ripe green fields beside the rolling hills. He remembered the warm embrace of his colorful coat. Then Joseph remembered his brothers. He could see their sneers of jealousy and hatred in his mind's eye. His heart ached over what had happened. He hated them for what they had done. He clenched his fist and gritted his teeth, imagining what he would do if he saw them again. Yet the anger soon gave way to sorrow. Joseph turned over in his cot and and wept silently. He allowed tears to flow from his face, then finally sighed to the heavens again.

Joseph (15:11)

Was this your plan? Why give me dreams of prosperity only to throw me away like this?

Narrator (Storytelling) (15:18)

He pondered his situation, realizing he was in the home of a powerful man in the most powerful nation. Perhaps his dreams were not completely lost. Joseph looked up again to heaven. The clouds began rolling in with the breeze, slightly covering the moon.

Joseph (15:36)

Please give me favor as you did Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Narrator (Storytelling) (15:42)

Despite his circumstances, a deep optimism welled within him. He sensed God's protection and provision releasing the tension in his fists. He breathed deeply and drifted to sleep.

Production Credits Narrator (15:59)

Limu Kimu and Doug.

Narrator (Storytelling) (16:02)

Here we have the Limu Emu in its natural habitat, helping people customize their car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug.

Joseph (16:16)

Uh, Limu is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

Narrator (Storytelling) (16:19)

Cut the camera.

Potiphar (16:20)

They see us.

Ryan Seacrest / Podcast Host (16:20)

Only pay for what you need@libertymutual.com Liberty.

Narrator (Storytelling) (16:23)

Liberty Liberty Liberty Savings Fairy Underwritten by.

Ryan Seacrest / Podcast Host (16:27)

Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates.

Narrator (Storytelling) (16:28)

Excludes Massachusetts.

Ryan Seacrest / Podcast Host (16:29)

Hey, it's Ryan Seacrest for Albertsons and Safeway. The holiday season can be exhausting with all the parties and the end of year celebrations, but don't forget to take care of yourself by stocking up on your favorite nutritional products. Now through December 30, shop in store and online and save on items like Cliff Snack Bars, Luna Bars, Boost Nutritional Energy Drinks, Premier Protein Shakes, Z Bar Variety Packs, Open Nature Powder and Body Fortress Protein powder offers end December 30th. Restrictions apply. Offers may vary. Visit albertsons or safeway.com for more details.

Advertiser (17:00)

Lately it seems like everything has unnecessary chemicals, and when I started looking into what I was actually using around my home, I realized my laundry detergent was the worst offender. Did you know traditional laundry detergent can leave harsh chemical residue on your clothes? Yeah. Neither did I. Turns out most popular detergents are packed with harsh chemicals that can irritate your skin, mess up your hormones and cause allergic reactions. But I don't want that stuff around my home, so I switched to Earth Breeze. Their detergent sheets are free from harsh chemicals like optical brighteners, dyes, parabens, phosphates and preservatives. And yes, your clothes still come out clean, fresh and soft. I feel so much better knowing I'm not exposing myself to those unnecessary toxins right now. You can try Earth Breeze for up to 40% off plus four free gifts@earthbreeze.com Tony that's earthbreeze.com Tony for 40% off plus four free gifts.

Narrator (Storytelling) (18:13)

Joseph arose early that morning before the other slaves. The sun had not yet risen and the coolness of morning was a refreshing change from the stuffy room where the slaves were kept. He greeted the guards outside the door and gestured to the water basin with rags soaking in them. They nodded and allowed Joseph to get an early start on his work. Joseph took the basin into the courtyard and began to scrub the floors. He paid attention to every detail of the floors. He scrubbed the cracks, polishing off every square inch of the courtyard. After he was done, Joseph climbed the ivory pillars, reaching up to clean off the cobwebs that had formed in the corners. Then Joseph took some oil from the palm roots and rubbed down Potiphar's desk. He polished the wood and paid close attention to sanding down any rough edges. Joseph had finally finished. As the sun rose, Potiphar arose from his chambers, fully dressed, groomed and prepared for his day. Joseph was wringing out his rags when Potiphar entered the courtyard. He scanned the newly polished area, then looked down at Joseph. Joseph bowed, picked up the empty basin and returned to the slave's quarters. He wanted to return to the others before they could see what he had done. Joseph had learned his lesson from what had happened with his brothers. If he was going to gain favour from Potiphar, it couldn't be at the expense of the others. He had to be humble, diligent and kind. Joseph joined the other slaves as they made their way down to the vineyard. Potiphar sat at his desk and ran his hands across the wood. He then looked up to see Joseph leaving with the other slaves, a slight smile dimly lit in his eyes.

Narrator (Storytelling) (20:07)

Weeks passed and Joseph continued to go above and beyond his orders. When the other slaves returned for their meal, Joseph remained in the vineyard, keeping a tally of the vines whose branches produced more fruit. He kept track of their cycles and reported them to the vinedresser before the sun rose. While the other slaves slept, Joseph arose to scrub and organize Potiphar's courtyard. He pruned the plants, polished the tile and buffed his desk. All the while, he would pray to his God, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. He would pray for wisdom to learn the culture, endurance to work harder than the others, and humility to pursue it all with a pure heart. As Joseph worked, he grew closer and closer to the God of his forefathers. In his heart grew a deep love for his Lord. Although he worked under Potiphar, he recognized that it was God under whom he worked. And God granted Joseph favour in everything that he did. Potiphar noticed Joseph's talents, including his organization, eye for detail and work ethic. Yet another pair of eyes was on Joseph. Potiphar's wife would often stroll beside the vineyards, catching glimpses of Joseph working under the hot sun. However, Joseph's eyes never met hers. He was intent on working and gaining favor with God and man. Three years passed and Joseph grew stronger and filled with the spirit of God. He was diligent in learning the language and eventually was promoted to oversee the slaves Alongside Net, Joseph had shown an aptitude for planning the vineyard's harvest. Depending on seasons he paid close attention to the weather, its patterns, and the demand for wine in the marketplace. Joseph became beloved amongst the slaves, and the members of Potiphar's house felt comfortable relying on him for important tasks. It was evident to the entire household of Potiphar that God had blessed Joseph. Joseph was now 20 years old. His once prideful and arrogant demeanor had been replaced with a strong and humble presence. He carried himself as someone who was capable but willing to serve instead of be served.

Narrator (Storytelling) (22:35)

Joseph arose early, as was his ritual. His footsteps echoed through the halls of Potiphar's courtyard. He scrubbed, scoured and polished, whistling a Hebrew lullaby his mother used to sing. It had become a ritual for Joseph, a meditation of humility. Yet it was interrupted by the regal footsteps of another. Joseph stood at attention as Potiphar entered the courtyard. He rubbed his hand against his desk, feeling its newly oiled surface.

Potiphar (23:08)

You have been here before sunrise every morning since you've arrived. At first I thought you might be a thief getting acquainted with the house before the others were awake. A year passed, and I thought you to be an opportunist, hoping to gain favor with the others. But now, after three years, I've come to be surprised by your.

Potiphar (23:35)

Relentlessness. Why do you do this? You were never commanded to do so.

Joseph (23:41)

I live to serve Lord Potiphar.

Potiphar (23:44)

Do not give me pleasantry, slave. I've asked you an honest question. You will respond with an honest answer.

Narrator (Storytelling) (23:51)

Joseph paused, realizing this was the first time Potiphar had spoken to him since he arrived.

Joseph (23:58)

If I am to be a slave, I'd like to be the best.

Potiphar (24:02)

So it's ambition that drives you?

Joseph (24:05)

No, my lord. Not ambition. Contrition. I was once the most favored son of my household. I was gifted with a high status in my father's house, despite being the youngest. I am sad to say I squandered my position. My arrogance and laziness led my brothers to jealousy. It led. It led me here. Now as a slave. God has granted me the chance to change my heart, a chance to do things right.

Potiphar (24:34)

Which God do you worship?

Joseph (24:36)

I worship the one true God, Master. He has given me undeserved favor.

Potiphar (24:43)

Favor? You're a slave, although there is no denying it. Joseph. Your God has clearly blessed you. And some way, perhaps this God of slaves can do something for me, too.

Narrator (Storytelling) (24:56)

The captain walked down the steps towards the vineyard and gestured for Joseph to follow him. Joseph walked beside him. Potiphar plucked some grapes from the vines and began to eat. He pointed towards the rising sun. Its golden beams showered light over the dark grape leaves, the contrast was brilliant to behold. Light from above and darkness from below.

Potiphar (25:22)

This is the God that I worship, Joseph. Amun Ra. He is the source of life, power and fertility of the earth. He has blessed me with unprecedented power and influence. Pharaoh himself listens to me and it is all because of Allah. However, since you have been here, our crops have increased, our slaves are in higher spirits, and the livestock are healthier. Perhaps the favor your God brings can match the might of Ra.

Potiphar (25:59)

Joseph, I would like to appoint you as my household overseer. Everything I own, everyone who lives here and all the crops I grow will be under your care.

Narrator (Storytelling) (26:12)

Joseph was speechless. It was an honor for Potiphar to even speak with him. Now he was being appointed as the manager of his entire estate. Joseph fell to his knees and spread out his hands.

Joseph (26:26)

You honor me with this responsibility. May God bless you for your kindness towards me. I will not let you down.

Potiphar (26:33)

Come here. It is much for you, Tula. If you're going to be the governor of my home, you must carry yourself with authority.

Narrator (Storytelling) (26:42)

Potiphar led him back through the courtyard and into his chambers. There was a large wooden chest sitting at the foot of his bed. He reached inside and pulled out a gold chain. At the center was a sapphire the size of a marble. Potiphar held it up to Joseph, then placed it around his neck. It hung on his bare chest. The sapphire was a bright contrast to Joseph's tanned skin.

Potiphar (27:09)

Joseph, I give you all of my authority over this home. You may command my servants, the slaves, and every worker within my estate. As you please.

Narrator (Storytelling) (27:21)

The tall captain froze mid thought and looked out the door into the courtyard. His wife and her maidservants were preparing to bathe in the pools. Potiphar looked at Joseph intently, eyes revealing some deep wounds and desires.

Potiphar (27:38)

However, you may under no circumstances order my wife or her maidservants.

Narrator (Storytelling) (27:45)

Joseph nodded in agreement, giving a slight bow. Potiphar took him for an early meal and the two discussed how the inner workings of the Ascend state could be managed better. Potiphar asked questions, praised Joseph's answers, and responded with more questions. Joseph was surprised at how humble of a man Potiphar truly was. For years he had judged him as an unapproachable ruler. Someone stuck in his ways and cold. However, under the overhang's cool shade, Joseph could relate to Potiphar and speak freely. For the first time in three years, he no longer felt like a slave. He felt once again the loving approval of a father.

Production Credits Narrator (28:39)

This pray.com production is only made possible by our dedicated team of creative talents. Steve Catena, Max Bard, Zach Schellewager and Ben Gammon are the executive producers of the Chosen People. Narrated by Paul Coltofianu. Characters are voiced by Jonathan Cotton, Aaron Salvato, Sarah Seltz, Mike Reagan, Steven Ringwald, Sylvia zaradoc, Thomas Copeland Jr. Rosanna Pilcher and Mitch Leschinsky. Music by Andrew Morgan Smith. Written by Aaron Salvato, Bree Rosalie and Chris Baig. You can hear more prey.com productions on the prey.com app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. If you enjoyed the Chosen people, please rate and leave a review.

Holiday Advertiser (29:25)

Okay, only 10 more presents to wrap. You're almost at the finish line.

Narrator (Storytelling) (29:31)

But first.

Narrator (Storytelling) (29:44)

There the last one.

Holiday Advertiser (29:48)

Enjoy a Coca Cola Cola for a pause that refreshes.

Ryan Seacrest / Podcast Host (29:56)

Janiece Torres here and I'm Austin Hankwitz. We host the podcast Mind the Small Business Success Stories, produced by Ruby Studio in partnership with Intuit QuickBooks.

Narrator (30:06)

We're back for season four to talk to some incredible small business owners.

Ryan Seacrest / Podcast Host (30:10)

The big thing about working at tech is that it's ever evolving, ever changing. Everyone's a rookie. That's how fast the industry is changing. So what I'm really excited about is to be part of that change. So listen on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Joseph (30:25)

You know what a girl's best friend is not diamonds her lawyers.

Potiphar (30:29)

From executive producer Ryan Murphy comes a fiery new legal drama.

Joseph (30:33)

It's our own boutique women representing women.

Potiphar (30:36)

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Narrator (Storytelling) (30:38)

Make it rigged Showtime, ladies. Stand up straight and breeze into that.

Joseph (30:45)

Room like a storm no one saw coming.

Potiphar (30:49)

Hulu Original Series All's Fair now streaming on Hulu and Hulu on Disney plus for bundle subscribers. Terms apply.

Odoo Advertiser (30:55)

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Holiday Advertiser (31:25)

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Narrator (31:56)

This is an iHeart podcast. Guaranteed Human.