Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that Yisrael 'strengthened himself' when he heard Yosef was coming?
A: Rashi explains that Yaakov (also called Yisrael) gathered his strength to sit up properly out of respect for Yosef, who was a ruler in Egypt. This teaches us the importance of showing honor, even to one's own child, especially when they hold a position of leadership.
Q: Why did Yaakov sit on the bed when Yosef came to visit him?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 96:3) notes that Yaakov had been weak and bedridden, but he made an effort to sit up when Yosef arrived. This demonstrates Yaakov's love for his son and his desire to receive him with dignity, despite his old age and illness.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov gathering strength to see Yosef?
A: The Rambam teaches that showing respect to others is a fundamental value in Judaism. Yaakov's effort to sit up, despite his weakness, teaches us to prioritize honoring others—especially family—and to overcome personal discomfort to show love and respect.
Q: Why does the verse switch between calling him 'Yaakov' and 'Yisrael'?
A: Rashi explains that the name 'Yaakov' refers to his personal struggles, while 'Yisrael' reflects his elevated spiritual status. Here, when he gathers strength to bless Yosef’s sons, he is referred to as 'Yisrael,' showing his role as the father of the tribes and a leader in prophecy.
Q: How does this verse connect to honoring parents?
A: The Talmud (Kiddushin 31b) derives from this verse that just as Yosef honored his father by visiting him, children must respect their parents. Yaakov’s effort to sit up also shows that parents should reciprocate with warmth, creating a relationship built on mutual respect.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bereshit 48:2) describes the moment when Yaakov (Israel) is informed that his beloved son Yosef is coming to visit him in his final days. This occurs after Yosef reveals himself to his brothers and brings Yaakov down to Egypt. The verse highlights Yaakov's emotional and physical response to Yosef's arrival.
Yaakov's Strengthening
Rashi explains that Yaakov "strengthened himself" (וַיִּתְחַזֵּק) because he wished to sit up in bed to honor Yosef, who was a ruler in Egypt. Despite his old age and frailty, Yaakov mustered his strength to show respect to his son, demonstrating the importance of kibud av (honoring a parent) and kavod malchut (honoring royalty). The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 96:3) adds that Yaakov was also spiritually strengthened by the Divine Presence (Shechinah) that rested upon him at that moment.
Sitting on the Bed
The phrase "and sat upon the bed" (וַיֵּשֶׁב עַל־הַמִּטָּה) is interpreted by the Ramban (Nachmanides) as Yaakov preparing himself for a significant conversation with Yosef, including the blessings he would later bestow upon Yosef's sons, Ephraim and Menashe. The Talmud (Megillah 16b) notes that sitting upright symbolizes a return to clarity and prophetic insight, as Yaakov was about to reveal future events to Yosef.
Spiritual Significance