11- Torah Portion: Vayigash ("And He Came Near") וַיִּגַּשׁ
Portion Summary
In thiseleventh Torah portion, Vayigash opens with Judah approaching Josephto plead for the release of Benjamin, displaying sacrificial love andresponsibility. Joseph, overwhelmed, reveals his identity andforgives his brothers. Jacob and his family migrate to Egypt,fulfilling YHVH's plan of preservation. This portion highlightsforgiveness, reconciliation, divine providence, and preparation forIsrael's national destiny.
Opening Prayer
Blessed areYou, Adonai YHVH our Father, Sovereign of Creation, who has given usYour Torah of truth, implanting within us eternal life through Y'shuaour Messiah. Blessed are You, YHVH Eloheinu, King of Creation.
Torah (Books of Moses)
(Genesis 44:18–34) – Judah's plea for Benjamin; willingness to sacrifice himself.
(Genesis 45:1–28) – Joseph reveals his identity, forgives, and explains YHVH's sovereignty.
(Genesis 46:1–34) – Jacob's journey to Egypt; YHVH promises His presence and blessing.
(Genesis 47:1–13) – Settlement in Goshen; Joseph provides for Israel during famine.
Targum (Jonathan – AramaicBible)
(Genesis 44:18–19) – Judah appeals with compassion, echoing the Messianic role of intercession.
(Genesis 45:13–14) – Joseph's reconciliation is explained as YHVH's divine purpose.
(Genesis 46:17–21) – Expanded listing of Jacob's household entering Egypt, underscoring covenant lineage.
Nevi'im (Prophets)
(Ezekiel 37:15–28) – The two sticks prophecy (Judah and Ephraim reunited).
(Isaiah 55:1–13) – Call to abundant forgiveness and divine compassion.
(Joel 2:1–13) – Repentance leading to mercy, paralleling Joseph's forgiveness.
(Micah 5:7–9) – Israel as a blessing among nations, reflecting Joseph's role.
(Zechariah 9:9–10; 14:2–4) – The coming peaceful ruler, foreshadowing the Messiah through Joseph's savior-role.
Ketuvim (Writings)
(Psalm 25:9) – Humility and divine guidance, embodied in Joseph's mercy.
(Psalm 105:16–22) – YHVH sent Joseph ahead to preserve His people.
Gospels & Epistles (NewTestament)
(Luke 15:11–32) – Prodigal Son, echoing reconciliation.
(2 Corinthians 5:17–21) – Ministry of reconciliation, Y'shua as the greater Joseph.
(Ephesians 2:1–10) – Grace and restoration, paralleling Joseph's forgiveness.
(Galatians 3:28–29) – Unity in Messiah, as Joseph restored unity in Israel.
(Hebrews 11:21–22) – Jacob and Joseph are included in the "Hall of Faith."
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