My Personal Commentary On Midrash Rabbah Mikeitz
Parashat 89 Chapter 3
The Journey of Joseph: From Slave to Sovereign
The story of Joseph, a central figure in the Book of Genesis, holds a timeless resonance that transcends generations, illustrating not merely the trials of an individual but also the profound virtues of resilience, self-discipline, and divine providence. This narrative, rich in its complexity, is carefully unraveled within the Midrash, a genre of rabbinic literature that seeks to interpret and elaborate upon biblical texts. At the heart of this exploration lies a compelling question: How could a mere slave, devoid of any formal training in governance or authority, rise to become the viceroy of a powerful nation like Egypt? The Midrash embarks on a deep inquiry into this phenomenon, shedding light on the unique qualities and circumstances that propelled Joseph to his esteemed position.
In examining the Midrash, one is immediately drawn to its invocation of the verse from Ecclesiastes: “Because from the prison he emerged to reign.” This striking juxtaposition of imprisonment and royalty serves as a profound commentary on Joseph’s transformative journey. It raises critical questions about his qualifications and the inherent paradox of his rise to power—what made Joseph deserving of such a monumental elevation, particularly when he had endured the depths of servitude and dejection since his tender age? The Midrash does not shy away from these challenges; instead, it presents an intricate and compelling argument that highlights Joseph’s innate leadership qualities.
According to the Kuzari, a pious individual—referred to as a chassid—holds a position akin to that of a king. A king must exhibit control over himself and his subjects, ensuring the harmony and well-being of his kingdom. This analogy is pivotal to understanding Joseph’s character; the essence of kingship is not merely about authority over others but also about mastery over oneself. Joseph exemplified this principle throughout his life. His unwavering self-control was especially evident during the treacherous encounter with Potiphar’s wife. Faced with temptation, Joseph did not succumb; rather, he displayed remarkable discipline, choosing to remain loyal to his master even under the most provocative circumstances. This act of restraint was not just a personal victory but a testament to his character—a precursor to his future role as a ruler.
The Midrash argues that Joseph’s lifelong training for kingship was demonstrated through his ability to govern himself. Each trial he faced—betrayal by his brothers, wrongful imprisonment, and the seductive advances of Potiphar’s wife—served as a stepping stone, honing his skills in self-discipline and moral integrity. The episode with Potiphar’s wife stands out as a pivotal moment in his narrative. Not only did he resist the allure of temptation, but he also chose to act honorably by continuing to serve his master. Such actions reveal a profound understanding of loyalty and virtue that was integral to his character.
Perhaps even more compelling is the Midrash’s assertion that Joseph’s experiences were not mere obstacles to overcome; they were essential elements of his preparation for leadership. In a world where many might view suffering as a hindrance, Joseph exemplified the idea that trials can serve as powerful teachers. His ability to endure hardship and maintain his principles amid adversity prepared him for the significant responsibilities that awaited him as a ruler. Each setback was an opportunity for growth, and these experiences cultivated the resilience and wisdom necessary for effective governance.
Moreover, the Midrash emphasizes that the essence of true leadership lies in understanding the balance between personal desires and the welfare of others. Just as a king must enact laws that serve the common good while maintaining order, so too must a chassid manage their physical needs while nurturing their spiritual essence. Joseph’s journey reflects this delicate balance; his ability to uphold his moral values in the most testing of circumstances speaks volumes about his character and readiness to assume the mantle of leadership. His commitment to self-restraint was not only a testament to his strength but also a reflection of his aspirations to lead with righteousness.
The teachings of the Midrash highlight that Joseph’s trials, particularly the challenge posed by Potiphar’s wife, were not mere tests of character but rather crucibles through which he was refined. His steadfastness amid temptation was not just a display of willpower; it was the culmination of a lifetime of preparation, marked by a consistent adherence to his values. Joseph emerged not merely as a survivor of his circumstances but as a figure of royal caliber, capable of governing with wisdom and compassion.
In the broader context of Jewish thought, Joseph serves as a symbol of hope and perseverance. His story illustrates the belief that one’s past does not dictate one’s future. Rather, it is the choices we make and the values we uphold that define our destinies. Through Joseph’s journey from the depths of despair to the heights of power, we learn that the path to greatness is often paved with trials that, when faced with courage and discipline, lead to the fulfillment of one’s higher purpose.
Ultimately, the Midrash presents a powerful conclusion regarding Joseph’s ascension: it was the combination of his innate virtues, his life experiences, and his unwavering faith that prepared him for leadership. His trials transformed him into a self-taught regent, embodying the principles of justice, compassion, and self-control. As he navigated the challenges presented to him, he developed the skills and insights necessary to lead a nation during a time of national crisis. Thus, the Midrash emphasizes that Joseph’s rise was not a result of chance but rather the inevitable outcome of his lifelong commitment to self-governance, integrity, and faith.
In conclusion, the story of Joseph is not merely a tale of personal triumph; it is a profound exploration of the attributes that define true leadership. The Midrash emphasizes that Joseph’s rise to power was intricately woven with the threads of his character, experiences, and moral fortitude. His life serves as an enduring lesson on the significance of inner strength, moral integrity, and the transformative power of faith in oneself and in a higher purpose. Through Joseph’s narrative, we learn that greatness is achievable, and that even in the face of overwhelming adversity, the human spirit can prevail, leading to the fulfillment of one’s destiny in the most unexpected of ways.
Parashat 92 Chapter 4
A The Roots of Redemption: Perfection in Character and Relationship with G-d
In the realm of spirituality and morality, the pursuit of human perfection transcends mere self-improvement; it embodies a profound journey towards fostering an ideal relationship with the Divine and cultivating an impeccable character. This dual pursuit is intricately woven into the fabric of Jewish tradition, as reflected in the mitzvos (commandments) found in the Torah. The mitzvos can be broadly categorized into two categories: those governing our interactions with fellow human beings and those that dictate our relationship with G-d. This essay seeks to explore these two dimensions of perfection, the historical context of the Temples’ destruction as a reflection of these failures, and the path towards redemption.
The mitzvos between man and his fellow man primarily focus on enhancing one’s character. They serve as a moral compass, guiding individuals toward respectful, kind, and merciful interactions with others. In essence, these commandments are designed to mold a person’s character, instilling virtues that ensure harmonious coexistence within the community. Conversely, the mitzvos between man and G-d are centered on the perfection of one’s spiritual relationship with the Divine. This aspect encompasses the love and awe of G-d, alongside the imperative of engaging in Torah study. The Torah underscores that the perfection of one’s attributes in relation to fellow humans is of paramount importance, as cited in Vayikra Rabbah (9 §3, 35 56).
The historical context of the destruction of the First and Second Temples serves as a poignant reminder of the repercussions of failing to achieve these two forms of perfection. The First Temple’s destruction is attributed to idol worship and a consequential estrangement from G-d, signifying a severe defect in the relationship between humanity and the Divine (Shabbos 56b). Additionally, it marked a departure from Torah study, illustrating a lack of engagement with the spiritual directives that govern human existence (Nedarim 81a). This failure to acknowledge and know G-d ultimately culminated in the catastrophic loss of a sacred space.
In contrast, the Second Temple, though it stood as a testament to the Jewish commitment to the observance of Torah and the performance of mitzvos, fell victim to a more insidious malady: baseless hatred among the people. This schism within the community reflects a critical failure to perfect oneself in relation to others. The teachings of Yama (9b) elucidate that, despite the external observance of commandments, the internal fabric of society was frayed by animosities that undermined the collective spiritual integrity of the Jewish people.
The promise of redemption lies within the rectification of these dual defects. The prophetic words of Zechariah (8:19) assure us that the fast days commemorating the Temples’ destruction will ultimately transform into days of joy and celebration. The prerequisites for this transformation are encapsulated in the call to “love truth and peace.” Love for truth signifies a return to the Torah and a commitment to the mitzvos between man and G-d, while peace emphasizes the urgent need to heal the rift between individuals, restoring compassion and unity.
Examining the historical context of the Jewish people’s exiles reveals a deeper understanding of these spiritual deficits. The Midrash recounts the three principal exiles: the exile of the Ten Tribes, the destruction of the First Temple, and the Second Temple’s fall. Jacob’s foresight regarding his sons’ departure from Canaan, particularly the inclusion of Benjamin, serves as a prophetic warning of the spiritual deficiencies that would lead to future exiles. His prayer for mercy and kindness illustrates the foundational virtues that must be rekindled within the Jewish community to avert such calamities.
In light of these insights, the essence of redemption becomes clear. It is not merely a restoration of physical sovereignty over the land but a holistic transformation of character and relationships. The path towards the Final Redemption hinges upon the collective efforts of individuals to embody the values of kindness, mercy, and truth. When these two fundamental defects—estrangement from G-d and discord among humanity—are rectified, the promise of an eternal Temple, never to face destruction again, becomes a tangible reality.
In conclusion, the roots of redemption lie in the dual pursuit of perfection: in character and in our relationship with G-d. The mitzvos serve as essential guideposts on this journey. As we aspire to embody these principles, we pave the way for a brighter future, transforming our fast days of mourning into joyous festivals. Only through the cultivation of love for truth and peace can we hope to witness the arrival of the true redeemer, ushering in an era of harmony, spiritual fulfillment, and collective redemption.