Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Yosef settle his family in the land of Ra'amses?
A: Yosef settled his family in Ra'amses because it was the best part of Egypt (as the verse states 'in the best of the land'). Rashi explains that this was fertile land suitable for shepherding, which was the occupation of Yaakov's family. Additionally, this fulfilled Pharaoh's command (Genesis 47:6) to settle them in the best part of the land.
Q: What does 'achuzah' (possession) mean in this verse?
A: The term 'achuzah' refers to permanent land ownership. According to Ramban, this was unusual since foreigners typically couldn't own land in Egypt. However, Pharaoh made an exception for Yosef's family due to Yosef's high position and their shepherding needs. This shows how Hashem provided for Yaakov's family during the famine.
Q: Why is it important that Yosef provided for his family?
A: This demonstrates Yosef fulfilling the mitzvah of honoring one's parents and family. Despite his high position, he personally ensured his family's welfare. The Midrash highlights this as an example of proper family responsibility and gratitude, as Yosef repaid his father's love by caring for him in old age.
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish history?
A: This settlement marked the beginning of the Jewish people's stay in Egypt, which led to the eventual exile and slavery. The Talmud (Nedarim 32a) notes that this was part of Hashem's plan, as foretold to Avraham (Genesis 15:13). The 'best land' initially became a place of hardship, teaching that material comfort shouldn't distract from spiritual growth.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yosef's actions here?
A: We learn the importance of hakarat hatov (recognizing good) and family responsibility. Despite past conflicts with his brothers, Yosef cared for them. The Sforno notes that Yosef went beyond basic needs, giving them the best possible settlement. This teaches us to help family members generously, especially when we're in a position to do so.
Yosef's Settlement of Yaakov and His Brothers in Egypt
The verse (Bereshit 47:11) describes how Yosef settled his father Yaakov and his brothers in Egypt, granting them possession of the land of Ra'amses, the best part of Egypt, as Pharaoh had commanded. This act fulfilled Yosef's earlier promise to provide for his family during the famine (Bereshit 45:10-11).
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi comments that the phrase "וַיּוֹשֵׁב יוֹסֵף" ("And Yosef settled") implies that Yosef personally ensured his family's comfort and sustenance. He did not delegate this responsibility, demonstrating his deep care for his father and brothers. Rashi also notes that the land of Ra'amses was chosen because it was fertile and suitable for shepherding, the occupation of Yaakov's family.
The Significance of "Achuzah" (Possession)
The term "אֲחֻזָּה" (possession) is significant. Ramban explains that this was not merely temporary lodging but a hereditary holding, indicating that Pharaoh granted them permanent rights to the land. However, the Midrash (Tanchuma Vayigash 10) clarifies that this was not full ownership, as the Torah later states (Vayikra 25:23) that the land ultimately belongs to Hashem.
The Land of Ra'amses
The land of Ra'amses is identified as "מֵיטַב הָאָרֶץ" (the best of the land). Ibn Ezra explains that this region was particularly fertile, ideal for Yaakov's flocks. Sforno adds that settling them in the best land also honored Yaakov's stature as a revered figure in Egypt.
Pharaoh's Command
The verse concludes by noting that this settlement was "כַּאֲשֶׁר צִוָּה פַרְעֹה" (as Pharaoh had commanded). The Kli Yakar emphasizes that Yosef acted with Pharaoh's explicit permission, ensuring that his family's presence in Egypt was legally and politically secure. This foreshadows the eventual enslavement, as the Egyptians later resented the Israelites' privileged status (Shemot 1:8-10).
Lessons from the Verse