Parashat VaYigash

This week, we read Parashat Vayigash, and this portion is essentially the falling resolution to Joseph’s story in the book of Genesis. It begins with Joseph finally revealing his true identity to his brothers in Egypt. He is emotionally reunited with his father Jacob, and then the rest of his family. And finally it concludes with the Jewish people moving to the land of Egypt and thriving into a “great nation.” The portion builds on everything that’s happened before it to a climactic ending that forever changes the fate of the Jewish people. 

What I find most interesting about this portion is its name: Vaiygash – “and he approached.” It’s a constant theme throughout this narrative – and the structure of the Torah at large. We are approaching the end of Genesis, getting ready to move into the next book of Exodus. Joseph and his brothers moved towards forgiveness and love for each other. Jacob had a second chance to approach his beloved lost son and heal his broken heart. And of course, the Jewish people walk into a new beginning in a new place, trusting God’s promise to “Fear not to go down into Egypt for I will make of you a great nation. I will go down with you into Egypt, and I will also surely bring you up again.” 

As we begin 2025, reflect on all the things that have happened in 2024 that built you up to this new moment. What are you approaching in this new calendar year? What are you leaving behind as you move towards your future? 

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