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Genesis 45:24 - Brothers: avoid conflict now

Genesis 45:24 - בראשית 45:24

Hebrew Text

וַיְשַׁלַּח אֶת־אֶחָיו וַיֵּלֵכוּ וַיֹּאמֶר אֲלֵהֶם אַל־תִּרְגְּזוּ בַּדָּרֶךְ׃

English Translation

So he sent his brethren away, and they departed: and he said to them, See that you do not fall out by the way.

Transliteration

Vayishlach et-echav vayeil'chu vayomer alehem al-tirgezu baderech.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיְשַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־אֶחָ֖יו וַיֵּלֵ֑כוּ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם אַֽל־תִּרְגְּז֖וּ בַּדָּֽרֶךְ׃
וַיְשַׁלַּ֥ח אֶת־אֶחָ֖יו וַיֵּלֵ֑כוּ וַיֹּ֣אמֶר אֲלֵהֶ֔ם אַֽל־תִּרְגְּז֖וּ בַּדָּֽרֶךְ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Rashi's Interpretation

Rashi explains that Yosef's instruction, "אַל־תִּרְגְּזוּ בַּדָּרֶךְ" ("Do not fall out by the way"), was a warning to his brothers not to engage in halachic disputes or arguments on their journey back to their father Yaakov. The term "תִּרְגְּזוּ" is understood as "quarreling" or "becoming agitated," suggesting that Yosef was concerned they might blame one another for his sale into slavery, leading to strife on the road.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 91:7) elaborates that Yosef was cautioning his brothers against two potential pitfalls:

  • Physical Danger: They should not take a shortcut or deviate from the main path, lest they encounter bandits or other hazards.
  • Spiritual Danger: They should avoid engaging in contentious discussions about the past, particularly regarding their role in Yosef's sale, which could lead to sin or discord.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Maimonides), in his ethical works, might interpret this verse as emphasizing the importance of shalom bayit (peace in the home) and brotherly unity. Yosef, having reconciled with his brothers, sought to ensure their return journey would be free of the jealousy and strife that had previously torn them apart.

Talmudic Connection

The Talmud (Sanhedrin 6b) teaches that pursuing peace is a high virtue, as seen in Yosef's concern for his brothers' harmony. The Sages derive from this verse that one should go to great lengths to prevent disputes, even among those who have wronged each other in the past.

Ibn Ezra's Commentary

Ibn Ezra suggests that Yosef's words were practical advice: since the brothers were carrying food and gifts, they might be tempted to argue over distribution or logistics. His warning was to avoid any conflict that could arise from material concerns during travel.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Taanit 10b
The verse is cited in a discussion about the importance of maintaining peace and avoiding strife, particularly among brothers.
📖 Megillah 16b
The verse is referenced in the context of interpreting Joseph's actions and his concern for his brothers' well-being on their journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Joseph mean when he tells his brothers 'Do not fall out by the way'?
A: According to Rashi, Joseph was warning his brothers not to quarrel or blame each other on their journey back home. Since they had previously sold him into slavery, he feared they might start arguing about whose fault it was now that the truth was revealed.
Q: Why is this verse important in the story of Joseph and his brothers?
A: This verse highlights Joseph's wisdom and compassion. Despite the suffering his brothers caused him, he wanted to ensure peace between them. The Talmud (Yoma 23a) teaches that pursuing peace is a great virtue, and Joseph exemplifies this by preventing further strife.
Q: How can we apply Joseph's message 'Do not fall out by the way' in our lives today?
A: The Midrash teaches that Joseph's advice applies to all interpersonal relationships. We should avoid arguments, especially when traveling or in stressful situations, and strive for harmony. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 6:3) emphasizes the importance of keeping peace even after conflicts are resolved.
Q: What does 'the way' (בַּדָּרֶךְ) symbolize in this verse?
A: The Sforno explains that 'the way' refers not just to the physical journey, but to life's path. Joseph was teaching his brothers—and us—to avoid conflict not only during travel, but in all aspects of life. The Talmud (Berachot 64a) states that Torah scholars increase peace in the world, just as Joseph did.