Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does the Torah list Reuven, Shimon, Levi, and Yehuda first in Exodus 1:2?
A: Rashi explains that these four tribes are mentioned first because they were the most prominent in taking responsibility. Reuven was the firstborn, Shimon and Levi stood up against injustice (as seen with Dinah), and Yehuda later became the leading tribe from which kings would descend.
Q: What is the significance of naming the tribes in Exodus 1:2?
A: The Torah lists the sons of Yaakov (Jacob) to emphasize that despite going down to Egypt, they retained their identities as the foundation of the Twelve Tribes. Ramban teaches that this shows their righteousness—they did not assimilate into Egyptian culture.
Q: Why are only four tribes mentioned in Exodus 1:2 and not all twelve?
A: The verse continues to list all twelve sons of Yaakov, but it begins with these four to highlight their roles in Jewish history. The Midrash (Shemot Rabbah) notes that these tribes represent leadership and strength, setting the stage for the Jewish people's future in Egypt and redemption.
Q: How does Exodus 1:2 connect to the rest of the Exodus story?
A: By naming the tribes, the Torah reminds us that the slavery in Egypt and eventual redemption were not random events but part of Hashem's plan for the descendants of Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov. The Sforno explains that listing them shows the fulfillment of the covenant with the forefathers.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Exodus 1:2 about family and identity?
A: The verse teaches the importance of preserving Jewish identity even in exile. As the Chizkuni notes, the tribes are named individually to show that each had unique qualities, yet together they formed Am Yisrael (the Jewish people). This reminds us to value both our individual and collective roles in Jewish tradition.
The Order of Yaakov's Sons
The verse lists the first four sons of Yaakov Avinu in the order of their birth: Reuven, Shimon, Levi, and Yehuda (Genesis 35:23). This arrangement carries deep significance in Jewish tradition, as each son represents unique spiritual qualities and roles within Klal Yisrael.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Genesis 35:23) notes that this verse follows the chronological order of their births, emphasizing that each son was born to Leah Imeinu. This establishes their status as full brothers from the same mother, distinct from Yaakov's other sons born to Rachel, Bilhah, and Zilpah.
Symbolic Meanings of the Names
Kabbalistic Insights
The Zohar (1:158a) teaches these four sons correspond to the four letters of Hashem's name (י-ה-ו-ה), representing different divine attributes manifest in their descendants. Reuven embodies chesed (kindness), Shimon gevurah (strength), Levi tiferet (harmony), and Yehuda malchut (kingship).
Historical Significance
The Malbim explains this sequence foreshadows Jewish history: Reuven lost his birthright due to impetuousness (Genesis 49:4), Shimon and Levi's violence was corrected (Genesis 49:5-7), while Yehuda emerged as the royal line (Genesis 49:8-12). This teaches that true leadership requires balanced judgment and humility.