Genesis 41:50 - Yosef's sons before famine

Background of the Verse

The verse (Bereshit 41:50) describes the birth of Yosef's two sons, Menashe and Ephraim, before the years of famine began in Egypt. Their mother was Asenat, the daughter of Poti-fera, the priest of On. This event is significant as it marks the beginning of Yosef's establishment in Egypt and the fulfillment of Hashem's promise to Avraham that his descendants would be strangers in a land not their own (Bereshit 15:13).

Asenat's Identity

Rashi (Bereshit 41:45) explains that Asenat was the daughter of Dinah, whom Shechem had fathered, and was later adopted by Poti-fera (identified by Chazal as Potiphar). This interpretation is based on the Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 80:11), which states that Yaakov sent a ketonet passim (ornamented tunic) with her when she was sent away, and this is how Yosef recognized her as his sister's daughter. The name "Asenat" is interpreted as coming from the root ס-נ-ה, meaning "hatred," because people hated her due to her illegitimate birth.

Poti-fera's Role

The title "Poti-fera, priest of On" raises questions about his identity. The Ramban (Bereshit 41:45) notes that On (Heliopolis) was a center of idolatry in Egypt, and Poti-fera was likely a high-ranking priest in that cult. Despite this, Yosef married his daughter, which the Midrash (Tanchuma Vayeshev 8) explains was part of Divine Providence to elevate Yosef to a position where he could save his family.

Timing of the Births

The verse emphasizes that the children were born "before the years of famine came". The Kli Yakar (Bereshit 41:50) explains that this timing was providential—Yosef's sons were born during a time of plenty so they would not be associated with suffering. Additionally, the Sforno notes that this detail highlights Yosef's foresight and stability before the crisis, demonstrating his wisdom in preparing for the future.

Spiritual Significance

• Menashe and Ephraim: Their names reflect Yosef's gratitude to Hashem—Menashe ("for Hashem has made me forget my hardship") and Ephraim ("for Hashem has made me fruitful"). This shows Yosef's recognition of Divine intervention in his life (Rashi, Bereshit 41:51-52).
• Legacy in Israel: Despite being born in Egypt, Menashe and Ephraim were later elevated to the status of tribes in Israel (Bereshit 48:5), demonstrating that even in exile, Yosef maintained his Jewish identity and passed it to his children.