Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why was Yosef put in charge of the prison?
A: According to Rashi, Yosef was put in charge of the prison because he found favor in the eyes of the prison officer due to his wisdom and trustworthiness. The Midrash adds that Hashem made Yosef successful in everything he did, showing Divine Providence even in difficult situations.
Q: What does 'whatever they did there, he was the doer of it' mean?
A: Rashi explains that this means Yosef was responsible for all the tasks in the prison. The Ramban adds that it shows Yosef's diligence and leadership—everything was done under his supervision, and he ensured the prison ran smoothly.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef's experience in prison?
A: The Talmud (Berachot 5a) teaches that Yosef's rise to leadership in prison demonstrates that righteous people are elevated even in difficult circumstances. This teaches us to trust in Hashem and maintain integrity, as Yosef did, even when facing hardship.
Q: How did Yosef's time in prison prepare him for leadership?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) explains that Yosef's management of the prison was training for his future role as viceroy of Egypt. By overseeing prisoners and tasks, he gained administrative skills and proved his reliability, which later helped him govern Egypt.
Q: Why is this verse important in Yosef's story?
A: This verse highlights Yosef's unwavering faith and competence despite being wrongly imprisoned. As the Rambam (Hilchot De'ot) teaches, Yosef's behavior exemplifies how a person should act with trust in Hashem and moral responsibility, even in unfair situations.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Bereshit 39:22) explains that the phrase "וְאֵת כָּל־אֲשֶׁר עֹשִׂים שָׁם הוּא הָיָה עֹשֶׂה" ("and whatever they did there, he was the doer of it") means that Yosef was responsible for all tasks in the prison. Even the work assigned to others was ultimately overseen and completed by Yosef, demonstrating his diligence and Hashem's blessing upon him. Rashi further notes that the prison officer recognized Yosef's wisdom and entrusted him with authority.
Rambam on Leadership and Trust
Rambam (Hilchos De'os 5:11) discusses the qualities of a trustworthy leader, which align with Yosef's conduct in this verse. Yosef's integrity and competence led the prison officer to place complete trust in him. This reflects the principle that one who demonstrates responsibility in small matters will be entrusted with greater responsibilities (Avot 4:5).
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 86:7) elaborates that Yosef's success in prison was a result of divine providence (השגחה פרטית). Despite being in a lowly position, Hashem elevated him because of his righteousness. The phrase "הוּא הָיָה עֹשֶׂה" emphasizes that Yosef was the active force behind all operations, showing that his leadership was divinely ordained.
Talmudic Perspective
The Talmud (Sotah 36b) highlights Yosef's unwavering faith in Hashem even in prison. His ability to manage the prison effectively stemmed from his moral steadfastness, as he resisted temptation earlier (with Potiphar's wife) and remained devoted to Torah values. This earned him the respect and trust of the prison officer.
Key Lessons from the Verse