Tol’dot (History or Generations) B’resheet/Genesis 25:19-28:9

Tol’dot(History)B’resheet/Genesis 25:19-28:9

Haftorah Reading: Malachi 1:1-2:7

 

This week we study a Torah portion that is filled with intrigue and suspense. It also raises spiritual issues that are very important to each of us. Perhaps it would be best to start with the most difficult first. Who do you sympathize with when you read this portion? Who do you see as the person most at fault when you read these verses?

 

Vayigash (He Approached) B’resheet Gen 44-47

Torah Portion:  Vayigash (He Approached) (B’resheet) Genesis 44-47

Haftorah Reading: Ezekiel 37:15-28

This week we read of the meeting between Joseph and his brothers where he reveals  himself to them after years of being separated. We read in Genesis 44:18 where Yehuda whispered in his ear and pleaded for his brother, even offering to take his place. Unlike years before when Yehuda came up with the idea of not killing Joseph but selling him into slavery.  However, here we see Yehudah when faced again with such a choice, has a different reaction. He chose to basically give himself for his brother.  This action by Yehudah had an immediate effect on Joseph.

Vayigash (He Approached) Gen 44-47

Torah Portion:  Vayigash (He Approached) Genesis 44:18-47:27

HafTorah: Ezekiel 37:15-28

Tonight we read of the meeting between Joseph and his brothers, where Joseph reveals his true identity to them. Remember it had been more than 20 years since the brothers sold him into slavery.  I am always struck by the question, “How could they have done such a thing to their own brother?”