Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 41:56 mean?
A: Genesis 41:56 describes the severe famine that spread across the land, and how Yosef (Joseph) opened the storehouses he had prepared during the seven years of plenty to provide food for Egypt. According to Rashi, this verse highlights Yosef's wisdom and foresight in storing grain, which ultimately saved many lives during the famine.
Q: Why is Yosef opening the storehouses important?
A: Yosef opening the storehouses is important because it demonstrates the fulfillment of Pharaoh's dream and Yosef's interpretation (Genesis 41:25-36). The Midrash teaches that Yosef's actions were divinely guided to ensure survival during the famine, showcasing the importance of preparation and trusting in Hashem's plan.
Q: What can we learn from Yosef's actions in this verse?
A: From Yosef's actions, we learn the value of foresight, responsibility, and leadership. The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 1:6) emphasizes the importance of preparing for the future, both materially and spiritually. Yosef's careful planning and distribution of food teach us to act wisely and compassionately in times of crisis.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: This verse reminds us to prepare for challenges, whether physical or spiritual, just as Yosef did. The Talmud (Bava Basra 9a) teaches that helping others in need is a great mitzvah. Like Yosef, we should use our resources and wisdom to assist those suffering from hardship, embodying the Torah's values of chessed (kindness) and tzedakah (charity).
Q: Why did the famine grow severe even after Yosef opened the storehouses?
A: The famine grew severe because it was a divinely ordained test and a means to bring Yosef's family to Egypt, as part of Hashem's greater plan (see Rashi on Genesis 42:1). The Torah (Deuteronomy 8:3) teaches that hardships can remind us to rely on Hashem, and the famine ultimately led to the fulfillment of the covenant with Avraham (Genesis 15:13-14).
The Severity of the Famine
The verse states, "And the famine was over all the face of the earth", emphasizing the widespread nature of the hunger. Rashi (Bereshit 41:56) explains that this was a fulfillment of Pharaoh's dream, where the seven years of famine affected not only Egypt but all surrounding lands. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 91:5) adds that this famine was Divinely ordained to bring Yosef's brothers to Egypt, setting the stage for the eventual descent and enslavement of Bnei Yisrael—a necessary step in the fulfillment of the covenant with Avraham (Bereshit 15:13).
Yosef's Role as Provider
The verse continues, "And Yosef opened all the storehouses", highlighting his leadership and foresight. Rambam (Hilchot Matnot Aniyim 10:3) derives from this episode the importance of preparing for future crises, as Yosef did by storing grain during the years of plenty. The Talmud (Yoma 76b) praises Yosef for his wisdom in managing the resources, ensuring that even during famine, there was a system in place to sustain the people.
The Economic and Spiritual Impact
The phrase "and sold to Mitzrayim" indicates that Yosef did not simply distribute the grain for free. The Kli Yakar (Bereshit 41:56) explains that this was a strategic decision to prevent hoarding and ensure fair distribution. Additionally, the Or HaChaim (Bereshit 41:56) suggests that Yosef’s actions were meant to centralize power under Pharaoh, fulfilling the dream’s prophecy that Egypt would become the dominant force in the region.
The Intensification of the Famine
The verse concludes, "and the famine grew severe in the land of Mitzrayim". The Sforno (Bereshit 41:56) notes that this severity was a test for the Egyptians, pushing them to recognize Yosef’s wisdom and Divine providence. The Netziv (Ha'amek Davar) adds that the worsening famine served to humble Egypt, preparing them to later accept Yaakov’s family when they arrived.