Greetings Optimist.
Thank you moderators for splitting the topics.
We must ponder Qoran . GOD asks that we verify all information.
Optimist, like you, I used to understand the verse about Joseph as you explained. However on further studies/pondering I now understand it differently.
Let me explain the reasons for this:
1- The main question that prompted me to search further was- Why would Joseph stay few more years in prison because someone else forgot to mention him to his lord? It did not seem just/fair?
2- Also GOD looks after the believers in this life and in the hereafter.
This is my current understanding of the verse;
First let me quote the following verses:
18:23
You shall not say that you will do anything in the future,
وَلا تَقولَنَّ لِشَا۟ىءٍ إِنّى فاعِلٌ ذٰلِكَ غَدًا
18:24
without saying, "God willing."* If you forget to do this, you must immediately remember your Lord and say, "May my Lord guide me to do better next time."
إِلّا أَن يَشاءَ اللَّهُ وَاذكُر رَبَّكَ إِذا نَسيتَ وَقُل عَسىٰ أَن يَهدِيَنِ رَبّى لِأَقرَبَ مِن هٰذا رَشَدًا
When Joseph asked the companion to remember him to his master, could he have overlooked his Lord ( GOD) at that moment, or may be not added " God willing"?.....
Throughout Qoran GOD tells us what others do/say...is of no consequence to us, providing we stay loyal and devoted to Him. Also he tells us " If bad happens to the believer it is from himself but if good happens it is from GOD".
GOD also tells us to remember Him day and night . if we slip up we ask for forgiveness and repent.
Joseph would have known all this, he was devoted to GOD Alone. But as humans we all slip up now and then.
A believer accepts everything that happens to him/her, good or bad, and does not put the blame on someone else. He/she knows to complain only to GOD. if bad befalls a believer, they should know it is from them, remembering GOD, asking for forgiveness and repenting is the solution.
GOD does not just tell a story, He teaches us a lesson from the story.
GOD also is consistent throughout Qoran. There are no contradictions in Qoran.
Of course you are entitled to your understanding also brother.
May the Lord teaches us knowledge and patience.
Thank you .
GOD bless .
Peace.