Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'a fruitful bough' mean in Genesis 49:22?
A: The phrase 'a fruitful bough' (בֵּן פֹּרָת) refers to Yosef's (Joseph's) descendants being numerous and prosperous. Rashi explains that Yosef was blessed with abundant offspring, just as a tree branch produces much fruit. This was fulfilled through his two sons, Ephraim and Menashe, whose tribes became large and influential in Israel.
Q: Why is Yosef compared to a branch by a well in Genesis 49:22?
A: The comparison to a branch by a well (עֲלֵי־עָיִן) symbolizes Yosef's spiritual and material success. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 98:18) teaches that just as a tree near water flourishes, Yosef thrived because he remained connected to Torah and mitzvot even in Egypt, resisting temptation and staying faithful to Hashem.
Q: What does 'branches run over the wall' mean in Genesis 49:22?
A: The phrase 'branches run over the wall' (בָּנוֹת צָעֲדָה עֲלֵי־שׁוּר) refers to Yosef's influence extending beyond natural boundaries. Ramban explains that this hints at Yosef's leadership in Egypt and how his descendants (like Yehoshua from Ephraim) would later play key roles in conquering and settling the Land of Israel.
Q: Why is this blessing to Yosef important in Jewish tradition?
A: This blessing is important because it established Yosef's descendants as two separate tribes (Ephraim and Menashe), giving them equal standing among the 12 tribes of Israel. The Talmud (Bava Batra 123a) notes that this was a unique honor, showing Yosef's righteousness in resisting temptation in Egypt.
Q: How does Yosef's blessing apply to us today?
A: Yosef's blessing teaches us about resilience and spiritual strength in challenging environments. Just as Yosef remained faithful in Egypt, we learn from the Sforno that maintaining Torah values in difficult circumstances leads to lasting blessing. This inspires us to stay strong in our Jewish identity wherever we live.
Explanation of the Verse
The verse "בֵּן פֹּרָת יוֹסֵף בֵּן פֹּרָת עֲלֵי־עָיִן בָּנוֹת צָעֲדָה עֲלֵי־שׁוּר" (Bereishit 49:22) is part of Yaakov Avinu's blessing to his son Yosef before his passing. The imagery used here is rich with meaning, as explained by classical Jewish commentators.
Rashi's Interpretation
Rashi explains that "בֵּן פֹּרָת" (a fruitful son) refers to Yosef's ability to multiply and prosper, much like a vine that produces abundant fruit. The repetition of "בֵּן פֹּרָת" emphasizes Yosef's exceptional fertility and success, both physically (through his descendants) and spiritually (through his righteousness).
Rashi further interprets "עֲלֵי־עָיִן" (by a well) as a reference to Yosef's strength, which comes from Torah study—symbolized by water (as in the analogy of Torah to water in Ta’anit 7a). The "well" may also allude to the pit into which Yosef was thrown, from which he ultimately emerged victorious.
Ibn Ezra's Insight
Ibn Ezra connects "בָּנוֹת צָעֲדָה עֲלֵי־שׁוּר" (whose branches run over the wall) to Yosef's influence extending beyond natural boundaries. Just as a vine's branches grow beyond a wall, Yosef's impact reached beyond his immediate family to affect all of Egypt and, ultimately, the world.
Midrashic Perspectives
Rambam's Philosophical Angle
Rambam (in his commentary on Mishnah Avot) sees Yosef as a model of self-control and divine providence. The "fruitful bough" represents wisdom and ethical conduct, which flourish when rooted in Torah values, enabling one to overcome obstacles (the "wall").
Chassidic Interpretation
Chassidic thought (e.g., Ohr HaChaim) highlights that Yosef's blessings overflowed ("צָעֲדָה עֲלֵי־שׁוּר") because of his unwavering faith during hardship. His spiritual resilience allowed his influence to transcend physical limitations.