Parshat Vayigash
Genesis 44:18-47:27
The saga of Joseph's time in Israel comes to a close this week. The parsha opens as Judah begs Joseph to allow him to become a prisoner in place of Benjamin. The brothers are fearful for their father Jacob's life, since he is so close to Benjamin. Joseph, unable to conceal his identity any longer, reveals himself to his brothers. They are astounded. Pharaoh learns that Joseph's brothers are in Egypt. He directs Joseph to invite Jacob and his entire household to live in Egypt. Joseph extends the invitation, sending along gifts and provisions for his father's journey but warning his brothers not to quarrel on the return to Canaan. Jacob is told that Joseph is alive and waits to see him in Egypt. One night during the journey, God calls out to Jacob and tells him that he will prosper in Egypt and that Joseph will be present at Jacob's deathbed.
The saga of Joseph's time in Israel comes to a close this week. The parsha opens as Judah begs Joseph to allow him to become a prisoner in place of Benjamin. The brothers are fearful for their father Jacob's life, since he is so close to Benjamin. Joseph, unable to conceal his identity any longer, reveals himself to his brothers. They are astounded. Pharaoh learns that Joseph's brothers are in Egypt. He directs Joseph to invite Jacob and his entire household to live in Egypt. Joseph extends the invitation, sending along gifts and provisions for his father's journey but warning his brothers not to quarrel on the return to Canaan. Jacob is told that Joseph is alive and waits to see him in Egypt. One night during the journey, God calls out to Jacob and tells him that he will prosper in Egypt and that Joseph will be present at Jacob's deathbed.
Jacob and Joseph have a tearful reunion. The family continues to work as shepherds in Egypt in the region of Goshen. The famine continues in Egypt and Joseph sells grain to the people. Eventually, the people sell all they own to Pharaoh in order to purchase grain. By the end of the famine, Pharaoh owns all of the land in Egypt save the land of the priests. At the end of the famine, Joseph gives seed to the people and directs them to repay Pharaoh with one-fifth of their harvest.
Questions for your Shabbat table:
- According to the text, Benjamin replaced Joseph in his father's affection and attention. Why didn't the brothers hate Benjamin the way they once hated Joseph?
- After all that happened, Joseph forgives his brothers. He also punishes them. Do you ever feel vengeful after someone has done something wrong to you?
If you can't get enough of this family drama, this animated short will surely be your next stop.
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