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Genesis 41:38 - Divine spirit in Joseph?

Genesis 41:38 - בראשית 41:38

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר פַּרְעֹה אֶל־עֲבָדָיו הֲנִמְצָא כָזֶה אִישׁ אֲשֶׁר רוּחַ אֱלֹהִים בּוֹ׃

English Translation

And Par῾o said to his servants, Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom is the spirit of God?

Transliteration

Va'yomer Par'o el-avadav ha'nimtza kazeh ish asher ruach Elohim bo.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֥אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶל־עֲבָדָ֑יו הֲנִמְצָ֣א כָזֶ֔ה אִ֕ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֛ר ר֥וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֖ים בּֽוֹ׃
וַיֹּ֥אמֶר פַּרְעֹ֖ה אֶל־עֲבָדָ֑יו הֲנִמְצָ֣א כָזֶ֔ה אִ֕ישׁ אֲשֶׁ֛ר ר֥וּחַ אֱלֹהִ֖ים בּֽוֹ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Pharaoh's Recognition of Divine Inspiration in Yosef

The verse (Bereshit 41:38) describes Pharaoh acknowledging Yosef's exceptional wisdom by stating, "Can we find such a one as this is, a man in whom is the spirit of God?" This declaration reflects Pharaoh's realization that Yosef's interpretation of dreams and his administrative insight stem from divine inspiration (ruach Elokim).

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi comments that Pharaoh recognized Yosef's divine connection because Yosef attributed his wisdom to Hashem rather than taking credit for himself (as seen in Bereshit 41:16, where Yosef says, "It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh a favorable answer"). This humility and acknowledgment of divine providence distinguished Yosef from Egyptian sorcerers and advisors.

Rambam's Perspective on Divine Wisdom

Rambam (Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah 7:1) explains that true divine wisdom (ruach hakodesh) is granted to those who refine their character and intellect to align with Torah values. Pharaoh's statement confirms that Yosef embodied these qualities, making him uniquely suited for leadership.

Midrashic Insights

  • The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 89:6) notes that Pharaoh's advisors initially doubted Yosef, but Pharaoh overruled them, recognizing that Yosef's wisdom surpassed human capability.
  • Another Midrash (Tanchuma Mikeitz 10) highlights that Pharaoh used the term "Elokim" (a name of divine judgment) rather than the Egyptian pantheon, indicating his acceptance of Hashem's sovereignty.

Implications for Leadership

This verse underscores the Torah's ideal of leadership rooted in divine wisdom and humility. Yosef's rise to power was not due to political maneuvering but because he embodied ruach Elokim—a spirit of Godly insight and righteousness. This serves as a model for Jewish leaders in every generation.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 55a
The verse is cited in a discussion about dreams and divine inspiration, illustrating how Pharaoh recognized Joseph's divine wisdom.
📖 Sotah 36b
The verse is referenced in the context of discussing Joseph's righteousness and the divine spirit within him, as acknowledged by Pharaoh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Pharaoh mean when he says Joseph has 'the spirit of God' in him?
A: Pharaoh recognized that Joseph's wisdom and ability to interpret dreams came from divine inspiration. According to Rashi, this means Joseph was filled with wisdom and prophecy from Hashem, which set him apart from ordinary advisors.
Q: Why is this verse important in the story of Joseph?
A: This moment marks Joseph's rise from prison to becoming viceroy of Egypt. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) explains that Pharaoh's acknowledgment of Joseph's divine connection validated his leadership and set the stage for saving Egypt and his family from famine.
Q: How can we apply the idea of 'the spirit of God' in our lives today?
A: The Rambam teaches that true wisdom and good judgment come from aligning oneself with divine values. Like Joseph, we should strive to develop qualities (such as honesty and insight) that reflect divine wisdom in our decisions and actions.
Q: Did Pharaoh truly believe in Hashem when he said this?
A: Traditional commentators like the Sforno explain that while Pharaoh acknowledged Joseph's divine wisdom, he did not fully embrace monotheism. His statement reflects admiration for Joseph's abilities rather than a personal belief in Hashem.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Joseph having 'the spirit of God'?
A: The Talmud (Chagigah 14b) teaches that humility and righteousness attract divine wisdom. Joseph's integrity in hardship (like resisting Potiphar's wife) prepared him to receive this spiritual greatness—a reminder that moral conduct leads to true success.