The parashah of Vayeishev, meaning “Yaakov dwelled,” takes us through the significant events that followed Yaakov’s reunion with his father Yitzchok in Mamre. The narrative centers around Yosef, the beloved son of Yaakov, who was sold into slavery by his envious brothers. This story not only highlights the trials Yosef faced but also provides a profound lesson in integrity, virtue, and faithfulness.
The Betrayal and Slavery of Yosef
After being sold to a group of Midianite merchants, Yosef was taken to Egypt and sold to Potiphar, a high-ranking official in Pharaoh’s court. Potiphar’s household soon recognized Yosef’s exceptional talents—his honesty, diligence, and wisdom made him a trusted servant. Yosef’s virtue was not only seen in his actions but also in his refusal to succumb to the seductions of Potiphar’s wife.
The Temptation and Unyielding Virtue
Potiphar’s wife fell in love with Yosef and tried relentlessly to win his affection. The Midrash offers a vivid depiction of her efforts to entice him—changing her attire, seeking every opportunity to speak with him. Despite her persistence, Yosef did not even cast a glance her way. The Torah tells us, “He refused and said to his master’s wife, ‘Look, with me here, my master does not concern himself with anything in his house, and he has put everything he owns under my authority’” (Bereishit 39:8).
The legends and commentaries provide additional context on the immense challenges Yosef faced. Potiphar’s wife resorted to various schemes to trap Yosef. According to Rabbi Chaim Shmuelevitz, Yosef’s responses to her manipulations are a testament to his unwavering moral fortitude. Each time she tried to pressure him, Yosef invoked G-d’s help, turning away from sin by quoting passages from Psalms that spoke to his faith and reliance on G-d’s judgment and mercy.
Mir Rosh HaYeshivah's Insights
Rabbi Shmuelevitz, the late great Mir Rosh HaYeshivah, offers a profound insight into Yosef’s actions. He asked why Yosef left his garments behind when fleeing from Potiphar’s wife, as this was potentially incriminating evidence. Shmuelevitz explained that when faced with a test, G-d provides the strength to withstand it. Yosef’s decision to leave the garment behind wasn’t just an act of self-preservation; it was a choice to not prolong the temptation, understanding the value of immediate and resolute action. By leaving his clothes, Yosef minimized his exposure to the risk of yielding to temptation, illustrating the wisdom in choosing to run rather than confront the trial for even a moment longer than necessary.
Consequences and Redemption
Despite the painful consequences of being falsely accused and imprisoned, Yosef’s story doesn’t end there. In prison, Yosef continued to show his integrity and wisdom. The Torah tells us, “The L-rd was with Yosef, and He extended charisma to him, and He gave him favor in the eyes of the warden of the prison” (Bereishit 39:21). This period of adversity became a stepping stone to his ultimate success. Yosef’s wisdom and insight allowed him to interpret dreams, gaining the favor of the Pharaoh’s chief cupbearer and baker. Eventually, this led to his release and rise to become the second-in-command in Egypt.
The Lesson for Today
Yosef’s story teaches us the importance of steadfastness in the face of temptation and adversity. Rabbi Shmuelevitz interprets the Psalmist’s words, “The sea saw and fled” (T'hilim 114:3), in relation to Yosef’s flight from Potiphar’s wife. Just as the sea parted before the Israelites, Yosef’s virtue and courage allowed him to withstand the powerful forces seeking to lure him away from his principles. Rabbi Shmuelevitz’s interpretation underscores the idea that personal strength and faith in God’s protection can lead to triumph, even in the most difficult of circumstances.
Yosef’s journey is a reminder that integrity, especially in moments of vulnerability, holds the potential for great reward. It encourages us to live our lives with honesty, to make choices that reflect our values, and to trust in a higher purpose—even when we are alone and seemingly abandoned. The parashah of Vayeishev teaches that true virtue is not just a personal strength but a legacy that leads to salvation and honor.
Copyright© 2023 by The LaMaalot Foundation. Talks on the Torah, by Rabbi Yitzchak Zilber is catalogued at The Library of Congress. All rights reserved. Printed in China by Best Win Printing, Shenzhen, China.
The Virtue Of Yosef In Parashat Vayeishev
Typography
- Smaller Small Medium Big Bigger
- Default Helvetica Segoe Georgia Times
- Reading Mode
