Testament of Joseph 15

1For she wanted to see me in sinful desire, but I was unaware of all these things. And he said to her, “This is not the custom among the Egyptians, to take what belongs to others before proof is given.” So he said this concerning the merchant. But the boy ought to be kept confined.

2“Why did you say that you were a servant? For behold, we have learned that you are the son of a great man in the land of Canaan, and that your father is still mourning for you in sackcloth and ashes.”

3When I heard these things, my inward parts were torn apart, and my heart melted, and I wanted very much to weep. But I restrained myself, so that I might not put my brothers to shame. And I said to them, “I do not know; I am a servant.”

4Then, indeed, they decided to sell me, so that I might not be found in their hands.

5For they feared my father, lest he come among them and take vengeance for the danger; for they had heard that he was great before God and men.

6Then the trader said to them, “Free me from the judgment of Potiphar.”

7And they came near and asked me, saying, “Say that you were bought by us with silver, and he will release us.”