We are told the famous story of the wife of Joseph’s master, Potiphar, who desired an intimate relationship with Joseph. Joseph courageously resisted her advances until she accused him of attempting to rape her, which resulted in his imprisonment. Many commentators have approached this story as the model in our tradition for avoiding temptations that we face.

There is an interesting concept found in Joseph’s explanation to Potiphar’s wife as to why he refused her advances. He noted his prominence in Potiphar’s home and how Potiphar had entrusted him with all his assets and property. Joseph declares, “There is no one greater in this home than me and he has withheld nothing from me except yourself since you are his wife. How then, can I commit this most wicked thing and sin before the Almighty” (Genesis 39:9).

Rabbi Moshe Pallier of Kobrin, the founder of the Kobrin Chasidic dynasty, commented that this mindset is one which each of us should try to live by. We also need to proclaim, “There is no one greater in this home than me.” Every person must think that there is nobody worthier of serving God than themselves. If we live in this way, we will regard forbidden behaviour as beneath our stature and dignity, and therefore avoid it.

Developing this notion one step further, we might add that despite Joseph’s lowly status at that time, he was able, proudly and indeed remarkably, to have this attitude. Although he was a slave, he recognised the unique position he served in Potiphar’s home and acknowledged the incredible responsibility he was given which empowered him to resist the temptation.

Rabbi Pallier urges us to follow Joseph’s example and similarly to take pride in our special role and position in life. No matter how small we might feel, we each serve a purpose that cannot be served by anybody else. If we live with this sense of pride and mission, then we will be far better equipped to meet the challenges that arise and invest our effort to achieve to the very best of our ability.