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Genesis 50:1 - Yosef's deep mourning revealed

Genesis 50:1 - בראשית 50:1

Hebrew Text

וַיִּפֹּל יוֹסֵף עַל־פְּנֵי אָבִיו וַיֵּבְךְּ עָלָיו וַיִּשַּׁק־לוֹ׃

English Translation

And Yosef fell on his father’s face, and wept upon him, and kissed him.

Transliteration

Va'yipol Yosef al-pnei aviv va'yevk alav va'yishak-lo.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּפֹּ֥ל יוֹסֵ֖ף עַל־פְּנֵ֣י אָבִ֑יו וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ עָלָ֖יו וַיִּשַּׁק־לֽוֹ׃
וַיִּפֹּ֥ל יוֹסֵ֖ף עַל־פְּנֵ֣י אָבִ֑יו וַיֵּ֥בְךְּ עָלָ֖יו וַיִּשַּׁק־לֽוֹ׃

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Parasha Commentary

Yosef's Emotional Response to Yaakov's Passing

The verse describes Yosef's profound reaction upon the death of his father Yaakov: "And Yosef fell on his father’s face, and wept upon him, and kissed him." This moment is rich with emotional and halachic significance, as interpreted by classical Jewish commentators.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bereshit 50:1) notes that Yosef's weeping and kissing occurred after Yaakov's passing, not before. This teaches that one should not excessively mourn or display affection for the deceased before death, as it may appear as if one is hastening the end. Only after the soul has departed is it appropriate to express grief fully.

Rambam's Halachic Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Avel 4:4) derives from this verse that kissing the deceased is a permitted expression of honor and love, provided it is done with proper reverence. The act demonstrates the deep bond between parent and child, even in death.

Midrashic Insights

  • Midrash Tanchuma (Vayechi 8): Suggests Yosef wept not only for his father's passing but also because he realized the fulfillment of Yaakov's prophecy that Yosef would "place his hand on Yaakov's eyes" (Bereshit 46:4) - now literally coming to pass.
  • Bereishit Rabbah (100:12): Teaches that Yosef's falling on Yaakov's face alludes to his acceptance of his father's blessings and spiritual legacy, demonstrating filial piety even in death.

The Kiss as a Symbol

The Zohar (Vayechi 221b) interprets the kiss as representing the transmission of divine wisdom from father to son. Yaakov had previously transmitted esoteric knowledge to Yosef (symbolized by his "extra portion" in Bereshit 49:22-26), and this final kiss represents the completion of that spiritual transmission.

Halachic Implications

Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 359:1) cites this verse as the source for the practice of closing the eyes of the deceased, as Yosef's falling on Yaakov's face implies this act of respect. The posekim emphasize that this must be done with great care and reverence.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Yosef cry over his father Yaakov?
A: Yosef cried over his father Yaakov because he deeply loved and respected him. According to Rashi, Yosef's weeping showed his immense grief and the strong bond between father and son. The Midrash also teaches that Yosef was mourning not only his father's passing but also the loss of the spiritual guidance Yaakov provided.
Q: What is the significance of Yosef falling on his father's face?
A: Falling on his father's face was a sign of deep respect and mourning. The Talmud (Moed Katan 25b) explains that this was a common practice when showing grief for a loved one. Yosef's action demonstrated his humility and the honor he had for his father, Yaakov, who was a great tzaddik (righteous person).
Q: Why did Yosef kiss Yaakov after he passed away?
A: Yosef kissed Yaakov as a final act of love and farewell. The Rambam (Hilchos Avel 4:4) explains that showing affection to the deceased is a way to honor them. This kiss symbolized Yosef's deep connection to his father and his acceptance of Hashem's decree.
Q: What can we learn from Yosef's reaction to his father's death?
A: We learn the importance of honoring parents, even after their passing. Yosef's actions—weeping, falling on his father's face, and kissing him—teach us about the mitzvah of kibud av v'em (honoring parents). The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De'ah 240) emphasizes that respect for parents continues after their death.
Q: How does this verse apply to mourning practices today?
A: This verse sets an example for proper mourning customs. Just as Yosef showed grief and respect, halacha (Jewish law) teaches us to mourn our loved ones with sincerity. The practices of keriyah (tearing garments) and sitting shiva are rooted in these biblical examples of honoring the deceased.