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Genesis 43:25 - Preparing gifts for reconciliation meal

Genesis 43:25 - בראשית 43:25

Hebrew Text

וַיָּכִינוּ אֶת־הַמִּנְחָה עַד־בּוֹא יוֹסֵף בַּצָּהֳרָיִם כִּי שָׁמְעוּ כִּי־שָׁם יֹאכְלוּ לָחֶם׃

English Translation

And they made ready the present for when Yosef came at noon: for they had heard that they should eat bread there.

Transliteration

Vayakhinu et-hamincha ad-bo Yosef batzohorayim ki shamu ki-sham yokh'lu lakhem.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיָּכִ֙ינוּ֙ אֶת־הַמִּנְחָ֔ה עַד־בּ֥וֹא יוֹסֵ֖ף בַּֽצׇּהֳרָ֑יִם כִּ֣י שָֽׁמְע֔וּ כִּי־שָׁ֖ם יֹ֥אכְלוּ לָֽחֶם׃
וַיָּכִ֙ינוּ֙ אֶת־הַמִּנְחָ֔ה עַד־בּ֥וֹא יוֹסֵ֖ף בַּֽצׇּהֳרָ֑יִם כִּ֣י שָֽׁמְע֔וּ כִּי־שָׁ֖ם יֹ֥אכְלוּ לָֽחֶם׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Bereshit 43:25) describes the preparations made by Yosef's brothers before their meeting with him in Egypt. They prepared a gift (מִנְחָה) in anticipation of Yosef's arrival at noon, having heard that they would eat bread there. This occurs during their second journey to Egypt, where they are seeking food during the famine and are about to encounter Yosef, though they do not yet recognize him.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the brothers prepared the gift "until Yosef would come at noon" because they knew he would not arrive earlier. They had learned from their previous visit that Yosef conducted official business in the morning and only ate with guests later in the day. This demonstrates their attentiveness to Egyptian customs and their desire to present the gift at the most appropriate time.

Midrashic Insights

  • Symbolism of the Gift: The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 91:11) notes that the brothers brought items representing the future offerings in the Beit HaMikdash—such as spices like balm and honey—hinting at the eventual unity of the tribes in Divine service.
  • Eating Bread at Noon: The phrase "they should eat bread there" is interpreted allegorically by some commentators (e.g., Kli Yakar) as hinting at the brothers' eventual reconciliation with Yosef, where "bread" symbolizes unity and peace.

Halachic Perspective (Rambam)

Rambam (Hilchot Mechira 7:1) derives from this verse the importance of proper timing in presenting gifts or conducting business. The brothers' careful preparation reflects the principle of hiddur mitzvah (enhancing a mitzvah), ensuring their gesture was made with dignity and respect.

Chassidic Interpretation (Sefat Emet)

The Sefat Emet emphasizes that the brothers' actions symbolize preparing the heart for Divine service. Just as they readied the gift before meeting Yosef, one must prepare spiritually before engaging in prayer or Torah study—aligning one's intentions with the proper time and mindset.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 43:25 mean when it says 'they made ready the present'?
A: The verse refers to Yosef's brothers preparing a gift (mincha) to present to him when they would meet at noon. According to Rashi, this shows derech eretz (proper conduct) – they prepared the gift in advance to show respect and gratitude, as was customary when approaching a high-ranking official.
Q: Why did Yosef's brothers hear they would 'eat bread' there?
A: The brothers understood that they would be invited to dine with Yosef at noon. The Ramban explains that sharing a meal was a sign of goodwill and reconciliation in ancient times. Eating together symbolized trust and peace, which is why this detail is emphasized in the verse.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 43:25 about preparing gifts?
A: The verse teaches the importance of preparing gifts in advance with thoughtfulness. The Midrash highlights that proper preparation demonstrates sincerity and respect. This applies today when giving gifts or showing appreciation—proper planning reflects true kavod (honor) for the recipient.
Q: Why is the time 'noon' mentioned in this verse?
A: Noon (tzaḥorayim) is specified because it was the customary time for the main meal of the day, as noted by Ibn Ezra. The brothers prepared the gift specifically for this occasion, showing they were mindful of proper timing and etiquette when meeting someone of importance.
Q: How does this verse relate to the broader story of Yosef and his brothers?
A: This moment marks a step toward reconciliation between Yosef and his brothers. The Talmud (Chullin 91a) notes that their preparation of the gift and anticipation of sharing a meal hinted at the eventual teshuvah (repentance) and reunification of the family, a key theme in Sefer Bereishit.