Parashat Miketz (מִקֵּץ), meaning “At the end,” continues the dramatic saga of Joseph’s life, tracing his rise from imprisonment to a position of great power in Egypt. Spanning Genesis 41:1–44:17, this Torah portion explores themes of divine providence, reconciliation, and the complexities of human relationships. The story is set against the backdrop of a devastating famine and sets the stage for the eventual reunion of Jacob’s family.
1. Pharaoh’s Dreams
The parashah opens with Pharaoh experiencing two troubling dreams. In the first, seven healthy cows are devoured by seven gaunt cows. In the second, seven healthy ears of grain are swallowed by seven thin and scorched ears. Disturbed, Pharaoh seeks interpretations from his advisors, but none can satisfy him.
The cupbearer, remembering Joseph, tells Pharaoh about the Hebrew slave who interpreted his dream accurately. Pharaoh summons Joseph from prison, and Joseph emphasizes that interpretations come from God:
“It is not I; God will answer for Pharaoh’s well-being.” (Genesis 41:16)
Joseph interprets the dreams as a divine warning: seven years of abundance will be followed by seven years of severe famine. He advises Pharaoh to appoint a wise and discerning leader to oversee preparations during the years of plenty.
Reflection:
Joseph’s humility and acknowledgment of God’s role in his abilities remind us to see our talents as gifts meant to serve others. His ability to rise to the occasion demonstrates the importance of being prepared to use our skills when opportunities arise.
2. Joseph’s Rise to Power
Impressed by Joseph’s wisdom, Pharaoh appoints him as viceroy of Egypt, second only to Pharaoh himself. Joseph is tasked with managing the collection and storage of grain during the seven years of plenty. Pharaoh gives him a new name, Zaphenath-paneah, and Joseph marries Asenath, the daughter of an Egyptian priest.
During the years of abundance, Joseph diligently oversees the storage of surplus grain. When the famine begins, Egypt is well-prepared, and people from surrounding nations come to buy food.
Reflection:
Joseph’s ascent to power shows how resilience, faith, and preparation can transform hardship into opportunity. It also illustrates the importance of using positions of influence to help others in times of need.
3. Jacob Sends His Sons to Egypt
The famine affects Jacob and his family in Canaan. Hearing that there is grain in Egypt, Jacob sends ten of his sons (excluding Benjamin) to buy food. When they arrive, they unknowingly bow before Joseph, fulfilling the dreams he had shared with them years earlier.
Joseph recognizes his brothers but conceals his identity. To test them, he accuses them of being spies. The brothers protest, explaining their family situation and mentioning Benjamin, their youngest brother. Joseph insists that they prove their honesty by bringing Benjamin to Egypt, keeping Simeon as a hostage in the meantime.
Reflection:
Joseph’s actions reflect his desire to assess whether his brothers have changed since they betrayed him. This episode challenges us to consider how we approach forgiveness and reconciliation, especially with those who have wronged us.
4. The Brothers Return with Benjamin
The brothers return to Canaan with the grain, but their joy is tempered by fear when they discover that the money they paid has been returned to their sacks. Jacob is distressed at the prospect of losing Benjamin but ultimately relents when Judah pledges to guarantee his safety.
When the brothers return to Egypt with Benjamin, Joseph invites them to a meal. Seeing Benjamin, his only full brother, Joseph is overcome with emotion but maintains his composure. He gives Benjamin five times the portion of food he gives the others, a gesture that tests their attitudes toward favoritism.
Reflection:
The interaction between Joseph and his brothers underscores the complexity of forgiveness and trust. Joseph’s emotional response reveals his deep love for his family, while his tests suggest his cautious approach to reconciliation.
5. The Silver Goblet and Judah’s Plea
As the brothers prepare to leave Egypt, Joseph instructs his steward to secretly place his silver goblet in Benjamin’s sack. After they depart, the steward overtakes them, accusing them of theft. When the goblet is found in Benjamin’s possession, the brothers are brought back to Joseph.
Joseph declares that Benjamin must remain in Egypt as his slave while the others are free to return home. Judah steps forward, offering himself as a substitute for Benjamin. He pleads:
“For how can I go back to my father if the boy is not with me? I could not bear to see the misery that would come upon my father.” (Genesis 44:34)
Reflection:
Judah’s plea demonstrates his growth and repentance. Years earlier, he suggested selling Joseph into slavery, but now he is willing to sacrifice himself for Benjamin. This marks a turning point in the brothers’ relationships and paves the way for reconciliation.
Themes and Lessons from Miketz
- Divine Providence
Joseph’s journey from prison to power shows how God’s hand guides events, even when His plan is not immediately apparent. It reminds us to trust in divine timing. - Preparation and Responsibility
Joseph’s management of Egypt’s resources highlights the importance of foresight and diligence in times of plenty to prepare for times of need. - Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Joseph’s interactions with his brothers reflect the complexity of forgiveness. His tests are not driven by vengeance but by a desire to see if his brothers have truly changed. - Personal Growth
Judah’s transformation from a man who betrayed his brother to one who takes responsibility for Benjamin illustrates the power of repentance and self-reflection. - Humility and Faith
Joseph’s acknowledgment that his abilities come from God serves as a reminder to remain humble and faithful, using our talents to serve others.
Conclusion
Parashat Miketz is a story of resilience, redemption, and divine providence. Joseph’s rise to power and his interactions with his brothers demonstrate the importance of faith, humility, and preparation. At the same time, the brothers’ journey reflects the potential for repentance and growth, even after serious wrongdoing.
As we read Miketz, we are reminded that life’s challenges often serve a greater purpose. By trusting in God’s plan, taking responsibility for our actions, and striving for reconciliation, we can navigate life’s complexities with integrity and hope. May Joseph’s story inspire us to use our gifts wisely and to approach others with compassion and understanding.