Genesis 40:4 - Yosef serves imprisoned officers

Context of the Verse

The verse (Bereshit 40:4) describes Yosef's situation in prison after being falsely accused by Potiphar's wife. The "captain of the guard" (שר הטבחים) is identified by Rashi as Potiphar himself, who was in charge of Pharaoh's executioners. Despite Yosef's unjust imprisonment, Hashem granted him favor in the eyes of the prison warden, leading to his appointment as a servant to Pharaoh's chief butler and baker, who were also imprisoned.

Yosef's Service in Prison

The phrase "וַיְשָׁרֶת אֹתָם" ("and he served them") is interpreted by the Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 88:5) as Yosef attending to their spiritual needs, not just their physical ones. The Sages explain that Yosef ensured they had kosher food and encouraged them in their faith. Ramban (Nachmanides) adds that Yosef's willingness to serve others, even in his own suffering, demonstrated his righteousness and leadership qualities—traits that would later elevate him to power in Egypt.

The Duration of Their Imprisonment

The phrase "וַיִּהְיוּ יָמִים בְּמִשְׁמָר" ("and they continued a season in custody") is understood by Rashi to mean they were held for an extended period before their dreams occurred. The Kli Yakar suggests this delay was providential, allowing Yosef time to gain their trust so they would later remember him when interpreting Pharaoh's dreams. The Talmud (Berachot 55b) teaches that dreams are often delayed in fulfillment, hinting at the eventual fulfillment of Yosef’s own dreams of leadership.

Spiritual Lessons

• Divine Providence: Even in prison, Yosef was positioned to meet Pharaoh’s officers, setting the stage for his eventual rise (Sforno).
• Leadership Through Service: Yosef’s humility in serving others—despite his own suffering—exemplifies the Jewish ideal of mesirut nefesh (self-sacrifice) for the sake of others (Malbim).
• Trust in Hashem’s Timing: The "season in custody" teaches patience; redemption often comes after a period of waiting (Rabbeinu Bachya).