Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Pharaoh mean when he tells Yosef 'your father and brothers have come to you'?
A: Pharaoh is informing Yosef that his family has arrived in Egypt. According to Rashi, this shows Pharaoh's respect for Yosef by personally delivering this news, rather than having a servant do so. It demonstrates Yosef's high status in Egypt.
Q: Why is this verse important in the story of Yosef and his brothers?
A: This verse marks the fulfillment of Yosef's dreams from earlier in Genesis, where his family would bow to him (Genesis 37:5-11). The Midrash explains that this reunification was part of Hashem's plan to bring Bnei Yisrael to Egypt, setting the stage for the eventual Exodus.
Q: What can we learn from Pharaoh's behavior in this verse?
A: The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 10b) teaches that we learn derech eretz (proper conduct) from Pharaoh's example here. Even as king, he showed personal attention to Yosef, teaching us the importance of showing respect to others, especially those who have earned honor through their wisdom and service.
Q: How does this verse connect to the Jewish value of family?
A: The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 6:3) explains that family bonds are sacred in Judaism. Despite past conflicts, Yosef maintained his connection to his father and brothers. This verse shows the importance of family reconciliation and unity, even after years of separation.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Pharaoh spoke to Yosef 'saying' (לאמר)?
A: Rashi notes that the word 'לאמר' often indicates that the speaker wants the message repeated to others. Here it suggests Pharaoh expected Yosef to properly arrange his family's settlement in Egypt. The Midrash Tanchuma adds that this shows Pharaoh's trust in Yosef's administrative abilities.
Pharaoh's Address to Yosef
The verse states: "וַיֹּאמֶר פַּרְעֹה אֶל־יוֹסֵף לֵאמֹר אָבִיךָ וְאַחֶיךָ בָּאוּ אֵלֶיךָ" ("And Pharaoh spoke to Yosef, saying, 'Your father and your brothers have come to you'"). This interaction occurs after Yaakov and his sons arrive in Egypt, and Pharaoh acknowledges their presence to Yosef.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Bereshit 47:1) notes that Pharaoh's statement emphasizes the familial bond—Yosef's father and brothers came specifically to him ("אֵלֶיךָ"). This phrasing highlights Yosef's elevated status in Egypt, as Pharaoh himself informs him of their arrival, treating Yosef with great respect. Additionally, Rashi suggests that Pharaoh's words may carry an implicit question: What are your intentions regarding their settlement? This sets the stage for Yosef's subsequent instructions to his family on how to present themselves before Pharaoh.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 95:4) elaborates that Pharaoh's mention of Yaakov and the brothers coming "to you" (Yosef) underscores Divine Providence. Despite the brothers' earlier betrayal, Yosef's rise to power ensured their survival, fulfilling the divine plan. The Midrash also contrasts Pharaoh's respectful tone here with his later harshness toward Bnei Yisrael, showing how Yosef's merit temporarily softened Pharaoh's attitude.
Rambam's Perspective on Leadership
Rambam (Hilchos Melachim 2:5) discusses the ethical obligations of a ruler toward foreign dignitaries. Pharaoh's conduct aligns with this principle—he acknowledges Yosef's family with dignity, reflecting proper diplomatic protocol. This mirrors Avraham's treatment of the three angels (Bereshit 18:2), where hospitality and respect are paramount.
Key Themes