In this week’s Torah portion, Vayigash (Genesis 44:18-47:27), we reach the point in the narrative when Joseph reveals himself to his brothers. Then their father, Jacob, learns that Joseph still lives and endeavors to see him before he dies. This is almost the end of the story which began with a great estrangement between Joseph and his brothers. Now, the brothers approach Joseph to seek his help, but Joseph recognizes them. He can’t hold back his emotions. He clears the room of servants and reveals his identity to his brothers, “I am Joseph!”
The Biblical account gives many insights into family relationships. But, at the beginning of 2009, we have little time to talk about family dynamics. Instead, we are interested in God’s role in history and the art and science of politics. In the past six months, we have come face-to-face with a failing economy, unimaginable fraud and deceit, and war not only in Iraq and Afghanistan, but now also in Israel and Gaza, again. As Joseph had to do, we must address head-on and without equivocation the truth and honesty of our predicaments here and abroad.
This week’s story of Joseph and his brothers reveals the climax of their mutual deceit and the end of their deceptions. True enough, Joseph’s role in Egypt served the region and his family by placing him in charge of vital resources, but, even after his honest work on behalf of Pharaoh, he could not live a false life any longer. He was not an Egyptian, after all; he was a Hebrew. He would reveal his identity to his brothers, but Joseph’s decision was fraught with consequences. How could Joseph know if they would accept him? How could he know if Pharaoh would betray him? And, yet, Joseph resorted to what he knew was the only truth and he could not escape it. He was the son of Jacob; he was part of a larger purpose that denied him any selfish ambitions. In the end, he did not turn away his brothers nor did he punish them severely. He did not use the power he was given to ingratiate himself. He would accept whatever the consequences of his reunion with his brothers would be. Ultimately, Pharaoh would have what is his, Joseph’s family would be restored, and Jacob would be comforted.
Among the lessons in Vayigash, is one that speaks to us, personally, as 2009 begins. We have to be mindful of history and practical in our expectations. History does repeat itself when we fail to learn from it. The economy and the war demand that we humbly accept the lessons of old and apply them with new insights. In the end, Joseph could only be what he was. Though many centuries separate us, nothing about human nature has changed. We can only be what we are, too. We are Jews who long for prosperity at home and peace in the Middle East.
Prosperity eludes many Americans, today. Honesty about today’s markets suggests that it is a time to save. It is also a time to re-establish commitments to enduring values: your children’s education, your family’s Jewish beliefs and values, and your personal well-being. Disposable income is down and more “stuff” might not be the must-have it used to be.
Peace cannot come without truth. Israel has a right to exist, and the needs of peaceable Palestinians do, too. Truth matters and nations who fight terrorists must recognize Israel’s aims against Hamas, and stand with Israel in its efforts. Some small statements were made by the Arab League on this point, but words are not enough. Israel is not only a strong democracy in the Middle East, it is also a sovereign nation doing nothing less than any sovereign nation would do to secure its borders.
Like Joseph, let the consequences of our deeds reflect the best we can do. Surely, honesty is greater than deceit, love is greater than hate, and forgiveness is greater than revenge. At the end of the day, as it were, we are but “flesh and blood,” “dust and ashes,” and “created in God’s image.” As Shabbat begins and 2009 unfolds, let us bring honor to God by being honest with ourselves. Let truth bring security to the Middle East, prosperity to our homes, and peace to our hearts.
From my desk to yours, Shabbat Shalom.
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