Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did people from all countries come to Yosef in Egypt?
A: According to Rashi (Genesis 41:57), people came to Yosef because he was in charge of Egypt's grain storage during the famine. Yosef had wisely stored grain during the seven years of plenty, as interpreted from Pharaoh's dreams. When the famine struck, Egypt was the only place with food, so everyone had to come there.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef's role in this verse?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 91:5) teaches that Yosef's wisdom in preparing for the famine shows the importance of foresight and responsible leadership. Just as Yosef saved many lives through his planning, we learn the value of preparing for future challenges and helping others in times of need.
Q: Why does the Torah emphasize that the famine was strong in 'all the earth'?
A: The Ramban (Genesis 41:57) explains that mentioning the famine's severity highlights how Yosef's rise to power was part of Hashem's plan. The widespread famine brought people to Egypt, setting the stage for the Jewish people's eventual descent there, which was necessary for the fulfillment of the covenant with Avraham about exile and redemption.
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish history?
A: The Talmud (Chagigah 3a) notes that this event marks the beginning of the Jewish people's connection to Egypt. Yosef's position of power allowed him to later bring his family to Egypt, leading to the formation of the Israelite nation there. This was the first step in the exile foretold to Avraham (Genesis 15:13).
Q: What does this teach us about helping non-Jews?
A: The verse shows Yosef providing food to all nations, not just his family. The Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 10:12) derives from this that we must support all people in need, as this promotes peace and sanctifies Hashem's name. Yosef's actions demonstrated kindness beyond his own community.
The Scope of the Famine
The verse states "וְכָל־הָאָרֶץ בָּאוּ מִצְרַיְמָה" - "And all the earth came to Egypt." Rashi explains that this demonstrates the severity of the famine, which affected not just Canaan but the entire known world. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 91:5) elaborates that even lands typically fertile and resistant to famine were impacted, showing this was a divinely ordained famine unlike natural ones.
Yosef's Central Role
The phrase "אֶל־יוֹסֵף" - "to Yosef" emphasizes that all nations recognized Yosef's authority and wisdom in managing the crisis. The Ramban notes that this fulfilled Yosef's childhood dreams of dominance (Bereishit 37:7-9), where his brothers and even celestial bodies bowed to him. The Talmud (Chullin 89b) derives from this that true leadership emerges during times of crisis.
Spiritual Dimensions of the Famine
Historical Context
Ibn Ezra points out that Egypt's unique ability to store grain was due to the Nile's predictable flooding patterns, making it the logical center for relief efforts. The Malbim adds that Yosef's centralized storage system (Bereishit 41:48-49) demonstrated his administrative genius, attracting nations to Egypt.