This story is about Asenath, the wife of the patriarch Joseph. The story takes place during Joseph's stay in Egypt (Genesis 41:45). It is known by several other titles, which include The Life and Confession of Asenath, The Book of Joseph and Asenath, and variations of these names. Ancient manuscripts of it exist in Latin, Syriac, Slavonic, Romanian, Ethiopic, and Armenian (about 40 copies in Armenian).
Most scholars believe the story was written by Jewish authors in Egypt between 100 BC and AD 100. It likely comes from Hellenistic Judaism, a blend of Jewish and Greek culture common in Egypt at that time. In this story, Asenath serves as an example of someone who turns from idolatry to faith in the true God. Some believe she represents people who converted to Judaism. If this is true, the story shows that not all Jewish groups before Christ were focused on strict laws. It also emphasizes how people must recognize their sin and depend on God’s mercy.
The original text of the story was probably in Greek. It has two main parts:
Part one describes Asenath's privileged life before she met Joseph. Joseph at first refuses to marry her because she worships idols. Asenath repents in ashes. She prays to God, who sends an angel to tell her he forgives her, and her name is now in the Book of Life. Joseph returns and is amazed by Asenath's new beauty, and rejoices that she has converted. With Pharaoh's approval, they marry the next day.
Part two describes when Joseph's father, Jacob, and his family arrived in Egypt. Pharaoh's older son desires Asenath. He therefore tries to convince Joseph's brothers, Dan and Gad, to help him kidnap her. Joseph's other brothers stop the plan and want to kill Dan and Gad. However, Asenath successfully pleads for their lives. Pharaoh gives his royal crown to Joseph. Pharaoh gives his royal crown to Joseph, who rules Egypt for 40 years. When Joseph finishes his rule, he returns leadership to Pharaoh’s younger son, who becomes the new king.