Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why was Pharaoh pleased when Joseph's brothers arrived?
A: Pharaoh was pleased because he respected Joseph greatly and knew that reuniting with his brothers would bring Joseph joy. Rashi explains that Pharaoh and his servants recognized Joseph's wisdom and righteousness, so they were happy to see his family reunited (Rashi on Genesis 45:16).
Q: What does this verse teach us about family relationships?
A: This verse highlights the importance of family unity and reconciliation. The Midrash teaches that even a powerful ruler like Pharaoh recognized the value of family bonds, showing us that repairing relationships is a noble and divine pursuit (Midrash Tanchuma, Vayigash 5).
Q: How did Joseph's status in Egypt influence Pharaoh's reaction?
A: Joseph was a trusted leader in Egypt, second only to Pharaoh. Because of Joseph's righteousness and his contributions to saving Egypt from famine, Pharaoh honored him by welcoming his brothers warmly (Rambam, Hilchot Melachim 10:12).
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Pharaoh's servants were also pleased?
A: The Torah emphasizes that not only Pharaoh but also his servants approved, showing that Joseph was universally respected in Egypt. The Talmud teaches that a righteous person's influence extends even to those around them (Talmud, Yoma 86a).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Pharaoh's reaction to Joseph's brothers?
A: We learn the importance of showing kindness and respect to others, especially for the sake of a righteous person. The Midrash notes that Pharaoh's hospitality set an example of how leaders should honor those who contribute to society (Midrash Rabbah, Genesis 94:3).
Understanding the Verse in Context
The verse (Bereshit 45:16) describes the reaction in Pharaoh's household upon hearing that Yosef's brothers had arrived in Egypt. This moment is significant in the narrative of Yosef revealing his identity to his brothers and the subsequent reunification of Yaakov's family.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the phrase "וַיִּיטַב בְּעֵינֵי פַרְעֹה" ("it pleased Pharaoh well") indicates Pharaoh's approval of Yosef's brothers' arrival. Rashi connects this to the broader theme of divine providence—Pharaoh's positive reaction was orchestrated by Hashem to facilitate the fulfillment of the covenant with Avraham that his descendants would dwell in a foreign land (Bereshit 15:13).
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 94:3) elaborates that Pharaoh and his servants were pleased because they recognized Yosef's wisdom and righteousness. They assumed that his brothers must also be righteous men, and their presence would bring further blessing to Egypt. This reflects the principle that the merit of a tzaddik (righteous person) benefits those around him.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 10:12) might interpret this event as an example of how a righteous leader (Yosef) can influence even a pagan king like Pharaoh to act favorably toward the Jewish people. Pharaoh's goodwill was a result of Yosef's exemplary conduct and divine wisdom, which earned him respect in the Egyptian court.
Key Themes