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Rashi and the Ibn Ezra say that it is a term used for supplication. The Ramban says that it is an expression of anguish and grievance about something upsetting or corrupt. The word, which literally means "in me" is used as expressing, "within me you are a master." In other words, Yehuda and the brothers were accusing Yosef of being oppressive in an unfair manner. (It is worthwhile to mention in passing that the Ramban teaches us through this idea that it is important for every regime to have an officer whose job it is to accept complaints about the functioning of the government agencies.)
The great Hassidic thinkers also struggled with this expression. Let us share the S’fat Emet’s (Vayigash 5643) idea on the matter. The midrash comments the following on the pasuk in Amos (9:13): "There are days coming, says Hashem, when the one who plows will meet the one who reaps." The one who plows, says the midrash, refers to Yehuda, and the one who reaps refers to Yosef. The S’fat Emet derives from this statement that Yosef is actually on a higher level than Yehuda in this context, as it is the plower who is there to prepare the way for the reaper. He continues that Yosef is related to the forefathers, whereas Yehuda is related to the descendants.
This is a very big chidush. Usually we view Yosef as preparing for Yehuda. Mashiach ben Yosef is the precursor of the awaited Mashiach ben David (from the tribe of Yehuda). Yosef is the sixth of the ushpizin (spiritual guests to our sukkot), leading the way for David on the seventh day. We learn from the S’fat Emet that there is a good deal of complementation in this relationship between Yehuda and Yosef. When the situation of "they were not able to speak to each other in shalom (peace)" persisted, there could not be a situation of shleimut (completeness). That is why Yehuda stresses "bee, adoni" - "although you are my master, your dominion comes from within me, for it is my plowing, namely, preparatory work, which makes you, Yosef, what you are." Only when the two work in tandem can there be full success.
One of the most profound prophetic expressions of the future redemption is that which Hashem commanded Yechezkel (37:16-17): "Take for yourself one piece of wood and write upon it, 'For Yehuda and the Sons of Israel, his friends;' and take one piece of wood and write on upon it 'For Yosef, the wood of Ephrayim and all of the house of Israel his friends.' Bring close one to the other for you as one piece of wood, and they should be as one in your hand." Separatism and internal strife in the past brought Am Yisrael down to a low level, as the split in the nation destroyed the First Temple, undid the accomplishments of the Hasmoneans, and destroyed the Second Temple with baseless hatred. Only with internal unity can we, with Hashem’s help continue and build the Third Temple.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Realtor’s Fee on Large Commercial Building – part I
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
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Shoftim TESHUVA IN COURT OF LAW?
Parshat Shoftim-Chodesh Elul
Why does parshat Shoftim always come out during Elul? This innovative and central explanation is an eye-opener regarding many aspects of Judaism.
The Month of Elul TESHUVA IS THE ANSWER
The month of Elul serves as a vital time for self-reflection and personal accountability to prepare for true repentance.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Realtor’s Fee on Large Commercial Building – part I
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 85031 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: The Goal of an Agricultural Yeshiva – part I
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 263 (address at the laying of the cornerstone of the Yeshiva Chakla’it in Kfar Haroeh)
Re'e NEVER EXTREME EXCEPT ISRAEL
Parshat Re'eh
Judaism is against extremism, so how can we understand the seemingly extreme statements found in our sages in favor of living in the Land of Israel and against living in Chutz laAretz? The article deals with the seeming contradiction between the strength of Free-Will and the strength of being influenced by our surroundings.
Ekev DANCE FOR ISRAEL- FOR YOUR BENEFIT
Parshat Eikev
Description: The 7 Haftarot we read after Tisha B'Av ("Shiva D'Nichemta") surely get us excited that they're coming TRUE, and awaken us to yearn, dance & join the return to Zion! The short article also deals with the problems and solutions facing the American Jewish community as discussed at a recent panel, as well as the question why Jews come from America to Israel to help when we face problems, but Israelis don't come to aid Jews in America when they face anti-Semitism.
P'ninat Mishpat P'ninat Mishpat: Complaints about Contractor’s Work – part II
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
(based on ruling 83037.1 of the Eretz Hemdah-Gazit Rabbinical Courts)
Chemdat Yamim Moreshet Shaul: Twin Foundations
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
Based on Siach Shaul, Pirkei Machshava V’Hadracha p. 690
D'varim Judaism’s Social Vision
Re’eh
Giving is more than an act of generosity—it is an essential part of human dignity that belongs to everyone, rich and poor alike. The ultimate goal of help is to empower others to stand on their own.
