Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 45:6 mean when it says 'there shall neither be ploughing nor harvest'?
A: This verse, spoken by Yosef (Joseph) to his brothers, means that the famine would continue for five more years, making it impossible to grow crops. Rashi explains that 'no ploughing' refers to the inability to plant due to lack of rain, and 'no harvest' means there would be nothing to reap. The land would remain barren.
Q: Why was there a famine for seven years in Egypt according to Jewish tradition?
A: The seven-year famine was foretold in Pharaoh's dream (Genesis 41) and interpreted by Yosef. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 89:5) teaches that this was a Divine decree to bring Yosef's family down to Egypt, fulfilling Hashem's plan for the Jewish people's eventual redemption.
Q: How did Yosef know there would be five more years of famine?
A: Yosef knew this through Pharaoh's dream, which he interpreted with Divine wisdom (Genesis 41:25-32). The Talmud (Chullin 89b) notes that Yosef's ability to interpret dreams accurately came from his righteousness and connection to Hashem.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef's statement about the famine in Genesis 45:6?
A: The verse teaches about Divine providence - that Hashem orchestrates events for a greater purpose. Yosef reassures his brothers that the famine (and their sale of him) was part of Hashem's plan to save lives (Genesis 45:5). The Rambam (Hilchot Ta'anit 1:1-3) derives from this that we should recognize hardships as opportunities for growth and repentance.
Q: How does the concept of famine in the Torah apply to us today?
A: While we may not experience famines like in Yosef's time, the Talmud (Ta'anit 19b) teaches that whenever rain doesn't fall sufficiently, it's like a famine. We learn to pray for sustenance (like in the Shemoneh Esrei's 'Barech Aleinu' blessing) and trust in Hashem's providence, just as Yosef prepared during the seven good years to survive the famine.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 45:6) is part of Yosef's revelation to his brothers in Egypt, where he informs them that the current famine will last for two more years, followed by five additional years of severe agricultural hardship. The verse reflects Yosef's prophetic insight and his role as a provider during this crisis.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) comments that the phrase "אֵין־חָרִישׁ וְקָצִּיר" ("there shall neither be ploughing nor harvest") does not mean an absolute lack of agricultural activity. Instead, it signifies that any ploughing or harvesting that occurs will be so minimal as to be inconsequential. This interpretation aligns with the idea that the famine would persist, but not to the point of total annihilation.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Maimonides), in his philosophical works, might view this verse as a lesson in divine providence and human responsibility. Yosef's foresight and planning—guided by Hashem's wisdom—demonstrate how individuals must act with wisdom and preparation, even when facing divinely ordained challenges.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Talmud (Ta'anit 19b) discusses famines and their halachic ramifications, such as fasting and prayer. Yosef's announcement underscores the importance of heeding prophetic warnings and taking practical steps to mitigate suffering, a principle applicable in halachic responses to crises.
Symbolism of the Years
Some commentators, like the Kli Yakar (Rabbi Shlomo Ephraim Luntschitz), see deeper symbolism in the division of years. The two years of famine correspond to the brothers' two sins—selling Yosef and deceiving Yaakov—while the five additional years represent the five-fold suffering they would endure before achieving full reconciliation.