D'var Torah

Parshat Mikeitz places us just before the climax of the Joseph story. He is viceroy of Egypt, and his brothers have come to him (not knowing his identity) seeking relief from the famine. He toys with them in this portion and weighs his options, until – next week – he finally decides to forgive them and offer them refuge. 

Joseph is blessed. Throughout his story, he unfailingly finds his way through being sold into slavery, falsely accused and jailed, because, we are told by the text, “God is with him.” But I don’t believe in divine intervention, so I look elsewhere for an explanation: what is the key to Joseph’s success?

I have always thought of Joseph as a loner who speaks his mind regardless of the consequences. This gets him in trouble, but in the end, it brings about his rise. This week, as I study this text again, I see Joseph differently. While he spends many years isolated and alone, what saves him may be his ability to maintain important relationships: in the face of the enmity of most of his brothers, he retains his love for his father, Jacob, and his younger brother, Benjamin; this love is what brings the family back together. He wins the favor of his master Potiphar; he befriends and interprets a life-changing dream for the Pharaoh’s cupbearer, who then remembers him and brings him out of captivity; and finally, through his honesty, he becomes the trusted advisor of Pharaoh himself. 

These relationships are important to the success of Joseph and the survival of his family. We see this three portions later, as the Israelites begin the centuries they spend as slaves. Their fall is explained by the collapse of relationship, when, “There arose a Pharoah who did not know Joseph.” (Exodus 1:8)

As we, like Joseph, navigate unprecedented times of conflict, as our people find themselves at war and under threat, we must remember the crucial role of our relationships with others to get us through this difficult time. We continue to reach out to our Israeli brothers and sisters, offering them help, strength and support. We continue to come together as a community for the same. And, we find ways to reach out to others, even those with whom we disagree. It is all these relationships that will remain essential, now and in the years to come. 

As tonight we light the last lights of Chanukah, may the brightness of all nine candles spread warmth at this cold time of year. May the Chanukah miracle from days of old give us hope for the future today. And, may the love of this holiday season bring us closer to our families, our community, and our neighbors. 

Shabbat Shalom,
Rabbi Jeffrey Saxe