Rabbi's Blog

Rabbi's Parsha Insight – Vayigash 

The Parsha records the beginning of the Egyptian exile. Jacob and his entire family leave the land of Canaan and arrive in Egypt where Joseph is the viceroy. Prior to their arrival the verse states, "He (Jacob) sent Judah ahead of him to Joseph, to direct him." 

Question – What was Judah's mission? 

Answer – Rashi quotes the Midrash that the Hebrew word "Lehorot," to direct, also means "to teach." 

Judah was sent to establish for him a house of study from which teaching would emanate. Jacob was teaching all Jews for all generations that in order to survive in the diaspora, you must have institutions of Jewish education. Torah knowledge is the most powerful antidote to assimilation. 

Halacha: 

During prayer it is prohibited to talk: 1) from Baruch She'amar through the Amidah, 2) during the Torah reading, and 3) when Kaddish is being recited. 

Moshiach Matters: 

Every Jew must believe that Mashiach will arise and restore the Kingdom of David to its original state and sovereignty, rebuild the Beit Hamikdash, gather the dispersed of Israel and in his days, all the laws of the Torah shall be reinstituted. (Rambam)