Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who sold Yosef (Joseph) to Egypt in Genesis 37:36?
A: The verse states that the Midyanim (Midianites) sold Yosef to Egypt. According to Rashi, this refers to the descendants of Midyan, who were traders passing by when Yosef's brothers pulled him out of the pit. The brothers initially sold him to the Yishmaelim (Ishmaelites), but the Midyanim later resold him to Potifar in Egypt.
Q: Who was Potifar in Genesis 37:36?
A: Potifar was an Egyptian official, described as 'Paro’s chamberlain, a captain of the guard.' Rashi explains that 'sar hatabachim' (captain of the guard) means he was in charge of Paro’s executioners, a high-ranking position. The Midrash adds that he was called 'Potifar' because he was castrated (from 'poter'—to interpret dreams), hinting at divine intervention to protect Yosef from sin later.
Q: Why is this verse about Yosef being sold to Egypt important?
A: This verse marks the beginning of Yosef’s journey in Egypt, which leads to the eventual descent of Yaakov’s family and the formation of Bnei Yisrael as a nation. The Rambam teaches that this was part of Hashem’s plan, as foretold to Avraham (Bereshit 15:13), showing divine providence even in difficult circumstances.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef being sold to Egypt?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 89b) derives from Yosef’s story that righteousness can prevail even in exile. Despite being sold as a slave, Yosef remained faithful to Hashem, leading to his rise in Egypt. This teaches us to trust in divine guidance during challenges, as hardships can lead to greater purposes.
Q: How does the sale of Yosef apply to us today?
A: The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 84:21) compares Yosef’s trials to the Jewish people’s exiles, showing that suffering can lead to redemption. Just as Yosef’s sale ultimately saved his family during famine, we learn that difficulties may conceal hidden blessings. This encourages perseverance and faith in Hashem’s plan.
Context and Overview
The verse (Bereishit 37:36) describes the sale of Yosef (Joseph) by the Midyanim (Midianites) to Potifar, an officer of Pharaoh in Egypt. This event marks a pivotal moment in the narrative of Yosef's descent into Egypt, setting the stage for his eventual rise to power and the fulfillment of his prophetic dreams.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) explains that the Torah specifies Potifar's title as "סְרִיס פַּרְעֹה" (Pharaoh’s chamberlain) and "שַׂר הַטַּבָּחִים" (captain of the guard) to clarify his high-ranking position. Rashi notes that the term "סְרִיס" (chamberlain) does not necessarily imply physical castration but rather denotes a trusted official in the royal court (based on Bereishit Rabbah 86:3).
Midrashic Insights
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides) does not directly comment on this verse, but his principles of hashgachah pratit (divine providence) apply here. The sale of Yosef, though seemingly tragic, was orchestrated by Hashem to ensure the survival of Bnei Yisrael (the Children of Israel) and fulfill the covenant with Avraham (Bereishit 15:13-14).
Additional Commentators
Halachic and Ethical Lessons
The sale of Yosef teaches about the consequences of sinat chinam (baseless hatred) among brothers, as well as the broader concept of "גַּם זֹאת לַטּוֹבָה" (this too is for the best), emphasizing trust in Hashem’s plan even in difficult circumstances (based on teachings from the Talmud, Berachot 60b).