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Genesis 41:43 - Joseph's rise to power

Genesis 41:43 - בראשית 41:43

Hebrew Text

וַיַּרְכֵּב אֹתוֹ בְּמִרְכֶּבֶת הַמִּשְׁנֶה אֲשֶׁר־לוֹ וַיִּקְרְאוּ לְפָנָיו אַבְרֵךְ וְנָתוֹן אֹתוֹ עַל כָּל־אֶרֶץ מִצְרָיִם׃

English Translation

and he made him to ride in the second chariot which he had; and they cried before him, Avrekh (Bow the knee): and made him ruler over all the land of Miżrayim.

Transliteration

Va'yarkev oto be'merkavet ha'mishneh asher-lo va'yikre'u lefanav avrech ve'naton oto al kol-eretz mitzrayim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיַּרְכֵּ֣ב אֹת֗וֹ בְּמִרְכֶּ֤בֶת הַמִּשְׁנֶה֙ אֲשֶׁר־ל֔וֹ וַיִּקְרְא֥וּ לְפָנָ֖יו אַבְרֵ֑ךְ וְנָת֣וֹן אֹת֔וֹ עַ֖ל כׇּל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם׃
וַיַּרְכֵּ֣ב אֹת֗וֹ בְּמִרְכֶּ֤בֶת הַמִּשְׁנֶה֙ אֲשֶׁר־ל֔וֹ וַיִּקְרְא֥וּ לְפָנָ֖יו אַבְרֵ֑ךְ וְנָת֣וֹן אֹת֔וֹ עַ֖ל כׇּל־אֶ֥רֶץ מִצְרָֽיִם׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Pharaoh's Elevation of Yosef

The verse describes Pharaoh's appointment of Yosef as viceroy over Egypt, symbolized by the "second chariot" and the proclamation "Avrekh." Rashi explains that the "second chariot" (מִרְכֶּבֶת הַמִּשְׁנֶה) refers to Pharaoh's own royal chariot, second only to his own throne, demonstrating Yosef's supreme authority under Pharaoh. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 90:3) elaborates that this act signified Yosef's elevation to a position of governance, with all of Egypt bowing before him.

The Meaning of "Avrekh"

The term אַבְרֵךְ ("Avrekh") is subject to various interpretations in traditional sources:

  • Rashi (based on Targum Onkelos) translates it as "father of the king" (אב למלך), suggesting Yosef was like a wise advisor or regent to Pharaoh.
  • Ibn Ezra proposes it may be an Egyptian term meaning "bow the knee," a command for the people to honor Yosef.
  • Ramban suggests it combines two words: av (father) and rakh (tender), indicating Yosef's dual role as both a leader and a compassionate provider.

Yosef's Authority Over Egypt

The phrase וְנָתוֹן אֹתוֹ עַל כָּל־אֶרֶץ מִצְרָיִם ("and made him ruler over all the land of Egypt") underscores Yosef's complete administrative control. The Talmud (Pesachim 119a) notes that Yosef's rulership was so absolute that even Pharaoh's own household was subject to his decrees. The Sforno adds that this appointment fulfilled Yosef's earlier dreams (Bereshit 37:5-11), demonstrating Divine Providence in elevating him to save Egypt and his family.

Symbolism of the Chariot

The מִרְכֶּבֶת הַמִּשְׁנֶה ("second chariot") also carries deeper meaning. The Kli Yakar explains that the chariot represents mobility and authority, allowing Yosef to enforce his policies throughout Egypt. The term mishneh ("second") may allude to Yosef being second only to Pharaoh, or it may hint at his role as a sustainer (as in mishneh kesef, "double money"), ensuring Egypt's survival during famine.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Sotah 36b
The verse is discussed in the context of Joseph's elevation to power in Egypt, particularly focusing on the term 'Avrekh' and its interpretation.
📖 Megillah 16b
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the honor and titles given to Joseph, comparing it to other instances of honorific titles in the Bible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'Avrekh' mean in Genesis 41:43?
A: The word 'Avrekh' (אַבְרֵךְ) is understood by Rashi to mean 'father of the king,' indicating that Yosef (Joseph) was like a father in wisdom to Pharaoh. Alternatively, the Talmud (Sotah 36b) explains it as a call for people to bow ('Av' meaning father, and 'Rach' meaning tender or bow), acknowledging Yosef's high position.
Q: Why did Pharaoh give Yosef a second chariot?
A: The 'second chariot' (מִרְכֶּבֶת הַמִּשְׁנֶה) symbolizes Yosef's elevated status as second only to Pharaoh in Egypt. Ramban explains that this honor was given to show the people that Yosef had Pharaoh's full authority, reinforcing his leadership during the years of plenty and famine.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef's rise to power in this verse?
A: This verse teaches the importance of Divine Providence (השגחה פרטית). Despite Yosef's hardships, Hashem elevated him at the right time to save Egypt and his family. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 90:3) highlights how Yosef remained faithful to G-d, showing that righteousness is ultimately rewarded.
Q: How does Yosef's leadership in Egypt apply to us today?
A: Yosef's leadership demonstrates using power responsibly. As the Rambam (Hilchos De'os 1:6) teaches, leaders must act with humility and wisdom for the public good. Yosef used his position to sustain lives during famine, setting an example for using influence with integrity.
Q: Why is Yosef's appointment over Egypt significant in Jewish tradition?
A: This moment marks the beginning of the Jewish people's connection to Egypt, leading to the eventual Exodus. The Sforno notes that Yosef's rulership was part of Hashem's plan to position Bnei Yisrael (the Children of Israel) in Egypt, setting the stage for their growth as a nation and future redemption.