Weekly Torah portion
Parascha Vayigash ויגש
Genesis (Bereschit) · Genesis 44:18-47:27
„And he approached"
Summary
The portion begins with Judah approaching Joseph to plead for the release of Benjamin, offering himself as a slave instead. Moved by this display of self-sacrifice and brotherly love, Joseph finally reveals his true identity to his brothers, leading to a tearful and emotional reconciliation.
Joseph reassures his brothers that their actions were part of a Divine plan to ensure their survival during the famine. He invites his father, Jacob, and the entire family to relocate to Egypt, where they will be provided for in the fertile land of Goshen.
Jacob travels to Egypt and is reunited with his long-lost son, Joseph, after twenty-two years of mourning. The family settles in Goshen, and the portion concludes by describing how Joseph manages the Egyptian economy during the famine, centralizing wealth and land under Pharaoh's control.
People
Judah
He shows great leadership and responsibility by offering to take Benjamin's place as a prisoner.
Joseph
The Viceroy of Egypt who forgives his brothers and provides for his family during the global food shortage.
Jacob
The patriarch who is revitalized when he learns that his son Joseph is still alive and ruling Egypt.
Benjamin
The youngest brother whose safety is the catalyst for the family's final reconciliation.
Pharaoh
The king of Egypt who welcomes Jacob's family and grants them the best land in the country.
Serach
The daughter of Asher who traditionally broke the news to Jacob that Joseph was still alive.
Key commandments (mitzvot)
Traditionally no commandments are counted in this portion.
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Quiz & badge
Answer every question correctly to earn the badge.
1. Which brother approached Joseph to plead for Benjamin's release?
2. In which Egyptian province did Jacob and his family settle?
3. How many years had passed since Jacob last saw Joseph?
4. What did Joseph say was the reason he was sent to Egypt?