Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 47:24 mean?
A: Genesis 47:24 describes the arrangement Yosef (Joseph) made during the famine in Egypt, where the people would give one-fifth (a fifth) of their harvest to Pharaoh as a tax, and keep the remaining four parts for themselves—for planting seeds, feeding their families, and sustaining their households. This was part of Yosef's economic plan to manage food distribution during the years of famine (Rashi, Ramban).
Q: Why did Yosef institute a 20% tax in Egypt?
A: Yosef instituted the 20% tax (one-fifth) to ensure fair distribution of food during the famine. Since Pharaoh owned the land and provided the seeds, it was just for the people to give a portion back in exchange for survival. This system also prevented hoarding and ensured everyone had enough (Midrash Tanchuma, Rashi).
Q: What can we learn from Genesis 47:24 about responsibility?
A: This verse teaches the importance of fair governance and responsibility. Yosef balanced the needs of the people with the needs of the state, ensuring sustainability. Jewish tradition emphasizes just leadership and proper distribution of resources (Rambam, Hilchot Matnot Aniyim).
Q: How does Genesis 47:24 apply to tithing (ma'aser) in Judaism?
A: While this verse refers to a tax in Egypt, Jewish law later establishes ma'aser (tithing) in the Torah, where a portion of produce is given to support the Kohanim (priests), Levi'im (Levites), and the poor. The concept of setting aside a portion for a greater purpose is a recurring theme in Judaism (Mishnah Ma'aserot, Rambam Hilchot Terumot).
Q: Why did the people accept Yosef's tax system in Genesis 47:24?
A: The people accepted it because Yosef had proven his wisdom by saving Egypt from famine. They trusted his leadership, recognizing that this system ensured their survival. Jewish tradition values leaders who act with foresight and fairness (Talmud, Sotah 11a; Midrash Bereishit Rabbah).
Context of the Verse
This verse appears in Bereishit (Genesis 47:24) during Yosef's economic reforms in Egypt. After acquiring all the land for Pharaoh during the famine, Yosef establishes a system where the people will give one-fifth (חֲמִישִׁית) of their harvest to Pharaoh and keep four-fifths for themselves.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) comments that this arrangement was a fair compromise. The people recognized Yosef's wisdom in saving Egypt from famine and willingly accepted this tax. Rashi emphasizes that the four parts retained were designated for specific purposes:
Rambam's Perspective
The Rambam (Maimonides) in Hilchot Melachim (Laws of Kings 4:2) discusses taxation principles derived from this verse. He notes that a just ruler must balance the needs of the state with the welfare of the people. Yosef's one-fifth tax was moderate compared to the total loss they would have suffered without his intervention.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash Tanchuma (Vayigash 10) connects this to the concept of ma'aser (tithing). Just as Avraham gave a tenth to Malkitzedek, Yosef instituted a similar system in Egypt, showing continuity in righteous governance. The one-fifth tax may also hint at the future mitzvah of terumah and ma'aser given to the Kohanim and Levi'im.
Halachic Implications
The Chizkuni (Rabbi Hezekiah ben Manoach) notes that this verse establishes a precedent for fair taxation. The Torah later mandates tithes (ma'aser), but Yosef's one-fifth was unique to Egypt's circumstances. This teaches that economic policies must adapt to the needs of the time while ensuring the people's basic needs are met.