Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 39:23 mean when it says 'the Lord was with him'?
A: The phrase 'the Lord was with him' means that Yosef (Joseph) had divine assistance and favor in everything he did. According to Rashi, this shows that even in difficult circumstances like prison, Hashem's presence guided Yosef and caused his efforts to succeed.
Q: Why did the prison keeper trust Yosef with everything?
A: The prison keeper saw that Yosef was righteous and trustworthy, and that Hashem blessed everything he did (as explained in the verse). The Midrash teaches that Yosef's integrity and divine favor were so evident that the prison keeper did not need to supervise him closely.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 39:23?
A: This verse teaches that when a person acts with righteousness and trusts in Hashem, even in difficult situations, Hashem will grant them success. The Rambam emphasizes that divine assistance follows those who uphold moral and ethical behavior, as seen in Yosef's life.
Q: How does this verse apply to our lives today?
A: Just as Yosef remained faithful to Hashem in prison and was rewarded with success, we too should maintain our trust in Hashem during challenges. The Talmud (Berachot 63b) teaches that when we dedicate our actions to Heaven, Hashem grants us favor in our endeavors.
Q: Why is Yosef's success in prison important in the Torah?
A: Yosef's success in prison, as described in this verse, is a key step in his journey to becoming a leader in Egypt. The Sages explain that this demonstrates Hashem's plan—even suffering leads to greater purpose. Yosef's righteousness in hardship prepared him for his future role.
Context in the Torah
This verse (Bereshit 39:23) describes Yosef's (Joseph's) experience in the Egyptian prison after being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife. Despite his difficult circumstances, Hashem's presence ensures that Yosef finds favor and success even in prison.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi comments that the phrase "The keeper of the prison looked not to anything that was under his hand" means the prison warden entrusted all matters to Yosef and did not interfere with his management. Rashi further explains that "because Hashem was with him" refers to Divine Providence guiding Yosef's success, as his righteousness and trust in Hashem brought him favor.
Rambam's Perspective on Divine Providence
Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 3:3) teaches that when a person aligns their actions with Torah values, Hashem grants them success in their endeavors. Yosef's integrity and wisdom—even in prison—demonstrate this principle, as his righteousness led to Divine assistance in all his actions.
Midrashic Insights
Ibn Ezra on Hashem's Role in Success
Ibn Ezra notes that the phrase "that which he did, Hashem made it prosper" teaches that human effort alone is insufficient—true success comes from Divine blessing. Yosef's administrative skills were enhanced by Hashem's intervention, ensuring his rise even in confinement.
Practical Lesson from the Verse
This verse reinforces the principle of bitachon (trust in Hashem), demonstrating that even in dire circumstances, a person who remains faithful will see Divine assistance. Yosef's story encourages Jews to maintain righteousness and diligence, knowing that Hashem guides the outcomes.