Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 45:11 mean when it says 'I will nourish thee'?
A: In Genesis 45:11, Yosef (Joseph) assures his father Yaakov (Jacob) that he will provide for him and his family during the remaining five years of famine. According to Rashi, this promise reflects Yosef's deep sense of responsibility toward his family, ensuring they would not suffer from hunger or poverty in the land of Egypt.
Q: Why were there five more years of famine mentioned in Genesis 45:11?
A: The verse mentions five more years of famine because Yosef had interpreted Pharaoh's dream (Genesis 41) as seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. At this point in the story, two years of famine had already passed, leaving five more years. The Ramban explains that this was part of Hashem's plan to bring Yaakov's family down to Egypt, fulfilling the prophecy given to Avraham (Genesis 15:13).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef's promise in Genesis 45:11?
A: From Yosef's promise to sustain his family, we learn the importance of family responsibility and chessed (kindness). Despite the hardships Yosef faced due to his brothers, he chose to care for them. The Midrash highlights this as an act of forgiveness and devotion, teaching us to prioritize family unity and support, especially in times of need.
Q: How does Genesis 45:11 apply to us today?
A: Genesis 45:11 teaches us the value of providing for our families and helping others in difficult times. The Talmud (Ketubot 50a) emphasizes that supporting one's family is a fundamental obligation. Just as Yosef ensured his family's survival, we must also take responsibility for our loved ones' well-being, whether materially or spiritually.
Q: Why did Yosef say 'lest you come to poverty' in Genesis 45:11?
A: Yosef warned his family about the risk of poverty to emphasize the severity of the famine. According to Sforno, this was a practical concern—without proper provisions, they could lose everything. Yosef's leadership ensured their survival, reflecting the Torah's principle (Proverbs 10:4) that diligence and foresight prevent destitution.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 45:11) is part of Yosef's revelation to his brothers in Egypt, where he reassures them of his commitment to sustain them during the remaining five years of famine. The verse reflects Yosef's foresight and his role as a provider, fulfilling the dreams he had earlier interpreted.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi comments on the phrase "וְכִלְכַּלְתִּי אֹתְךָ" ("and there will I nourish thee"), explaining that Yosef uses the term "כלכל" (nourish) to emphasize his personal responsibility to care for his family. Rashi notes that this term implies not just basic sustenance but attentive and compassionate provision, ensuring their well-being during the famine.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchot Matnot Aniyim 10:7) derives from this verse the principle of השבת אבדה (restoring lost property) in a broader sense. Yosef's promise to sustain his family exemplifies the mitzvah of supporting those in need, especially one's relatives, to prevent them from falling into destitution.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 251:3) cites this verse as a source for the obligation to prioritize supporting one's family over others. Yosef's explicit concern for "אַתָּה וּבֵיתְךָ" ("you and your household") establishes the precedence of familial responsibility in tzedakah.
Symbolism of the Five Years
The Kli Yakar notes that the five remaining years of famine correspond to the five senses, teaching that true sustenance involves not only physical nourishment but also spiritual and emotional care. Yosef's provision was holistic, addressing all aspects of his family's needs.