VaYigash (Genesis 44:18 - 47:27)

The portion is named "VaYigash" , literally "and he approached," because it begins with Judah approaching Joseph andbegging him not to arrest Benjamin. This week's portion continues the drama which we left off at the end of the previous week: Benjamin is being accused of stealing from Joseph, who has not yet revealed himself to his brothers. Judah approaches Joseph, explains how he promised his father that he would be surety for Benjamin, and asks to be arrested instead of Benjamin. At this point Joseph can no longer control himself, and asks all of his servants to leave the room. He reveals himself to his brothers, who are shocked, and tells them that selling him to Egypt was part of God's plan in order to sustain the family. He asks them to go tell their father, and bring him to Egypt so that Joseph will be able to support them during the years of famine, the five which still remain. The reunion of the brothers is described as very emotional. The brothers go back to Canaan and tell Jacob what has happened. Jacob is first stunned by the news, and then wishes to go to Egypt and see Joseph. All of Jacob's family set out for the journey and Judah is sent ahead in order to lead the way. We are told of the touching reunion of Joseph and his father. At the end of the portion we are told of the great hunger in Egypt, and how Joseph wisely buys all the lands for Pharaoh in return for food. Meanwhile, the sons of Jacob are prosperous in Egypt.