Mikeitz 5785-2024
“Unexpected Parallels between Mikeitz
and the Story of Chanukah”
(updated and revised from Mikeitz 5768-2007)
Parashat Mikeitz is almost always read on the Shabbat of Chanukah, not only because like the Jewish Hellenists of old, Joseph may be viewed as an assimilationist who tries to shed his identity, but also because of the numerous parallels to the festival of Chanukah that may be found in the text of parashat Mikeitz.
0 Comments7 Minutes
Mikeitz/Chanukah 5777-2016
“Pharaoh Was Agitated”
Why was Pharaoh agitated and disturbed by his dream. Certainly Pharaoh knew that most dreams are mere fantasy?
0 Comments6 Minutes
Mikeitz 5775-2014
“Why Did Joseph, the Viceroy of Egypt, Never Contact His Aged Father?”
Joseph had already served for nine years as the second most powerful person in Egypt when his brothers come to Egypt to buy food. Why hadn’t the all-powerful Joseph previously contacted his family in Canaan, or at least informed them of the impending famine?
0 Comments9 Minutes
Mikeitz 5774-2013
"What’s in a Name? Zaphenath-Paneach"
While it is necessary for Pharaoh to add to Joseph’s public stature by dressing him as a noble Egyptian, why was it necessary for Pharaoh to rename Joseph?
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Mikeitz-Chanukah 5768-2007
"Unexpected Parallels between Mikeitz and the Story of Chanukah"
Parashat Mikeitz is always read on the Shabbat of Chanukah, not only because Joseph may be viewed as an assimilationist who regains his identity, but also because of the numerous parallels to the festival of Chanukah that may be found in the text of parashat Mikeitz.
0 Comments7 Minutes
Vayeishev 5765-2004
"A Personality Profile of Joseph"
The personality of Joseph is complex and fascinating. Much of Joseph's future life is determined by his early childhood, especially the death of his mother and the fact that he was favored by his father. How Joseph deals with these elements of his life constitutes one of the most fascinating stories in human literature.
0 Comments9 Minutes