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Genesis 43:31 - Joseph masters his emotions.

Genesis 43:31 - בראשית 43:31

Hebrew Text

וַיִּרְחַץ פָּנָיו וַיֵּצֵא וַיִּתְאַפַּק וַיֹּאמֶר שִׂימוּ לָחֶם׃

English Translation

And he washed his face, and went out, and restrained himself, and said, Set on bread.

Transliteration

Vayirchatz panav vayetze vayitapak vayomer simu lachem.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּרְחַ֥ץ פָּנָ֖יו וַיֵּצֵ֑א וַיִּ֨תְאַפַּ֔ק וַיֹּ֖אמֶר שִׂ֥ימוּ לָֽחֶם׃
וַיִּרְחַ֥ץ פָּנָ֖יו וַיֵּצֵ֑א וַיִּ֨תְאַפַּ֔ק וַיֹּ֖אמֶר שִׂ֥ימוּ לָֽחֶם׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Bereshit 43:31) describes Yosef's actions after he is overcome with emotion upon seeing his brother Binyamin for the first time in many years. Yosef had concealed his identity from his brothers, and this moment marks a pivotal point in the narrative where he begins to reveal himself.

Explanation of the Actions

  • וַיִּרְחַץ פָּנָיו (And he washed his face): Rashi explains that Yosef washed his face to remove the traces of tears, as he had been crying in private. This demonstrates his effort to maintain composure and not reveal his emotions prematurely (Rashi on Bereshit 43:31).
  • וַיֵּצֵא (And went out): The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 93:10) suggests that Yosef left the room where he had been overcome with emotion to regain his composure before facing his brothers again.
  • וַיִּתְאַפַּק (And restrained himself): Ramban (Nachmanides) notes that Yosef exercised immense self-control to avoid revealing his identity before the proper time, aligning with his broader plan to test his brothers' repentance (Ramban on Bereshit 43:31).
  • וַיֹּאמֶר שִׂימוּ לָחֶם (And said, Set on bread): The Talmud (Chullin 91a) interprets this as Yosef resuming his role as a ruler, shifting the focus back to the meal to avoid raising suspicions among his brothers.

Moral and Ethical Lessons

The verse highlights Yosef's mastery over his emotions and his strategic wisdom. The Talmud (Pesachim 119a) praises Yosef for his ability to delay gratification and act with patience, a trait that ultimately leads to the reunification of his family. Additionally, the Midrash (Tanchuma Vayigash 5) emphasizes the importance of self-restraint (איפוק) as a virtue, particularly in moments of intense emotion.

Symbolism of Washing the Face

The act of washing his face is symbolic of spiritual renewal. The Kli Yakar (R' Shlomo Ephraim of Luntschitz) suggests that Yosef's washing represents a purification of intent, ensuring that his subsequent actions were guided by wisdom rather than raw emotion (Kli Yakar on Bereshit 43:31).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does it mean that Yosef 'restrained himself' in Genesis 43:31?
A: According to Rashi, Yosef restrained himself from crying in front of his brothers to maintain his disguise as an Egyptian ruler. The Midrash explains that this showed his self-control and wisdom in carrying out Hashem's plan to reunite the family.
Q: Why did Yosef wash his face before meeting his brothers in Genesis 43:31?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 91a) teaches that Yosef washed his face to remove any signs of distress or tears, maintaining his composure as a leader. This demonstrates the importance of presenting oneself properly, especially in positions of authority.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef saying 'Set on bread' in Genesis 43:31?
A: Rambam teaches that Yosef's instruction to serve food shows the Jewish value of hachnasat orchim (hospitality), even in difficult emotional situations. Despite his inner turmoil with his brothers, he ensured they were properly fed.
Q: How does Yosef's behavior in Genesis 43:31 apply to our lives today?
A: The verse teaches us about emotional restraint and proper conduct. Like Yosef, we should maintain composure in challenging situations (as taught in Pirkei Avot 4:1), while still fulfilling our obligations to others with kindness and hospitality.
Q: Why is Genesis 43:31 important in the story of Yosef and his brothers?
A: This moment is crucial in the Torah's narrative because it shows Yosef's maturity and divine wisdom in handling the reunion. As the Sforno explains, Yosef's actions here set the stage for the eventual reconciliation and fulfillment of his prophetic dreams.