Torah Portion Miketz / Hanukkah – Unity in God’s Light
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Torah: Genesis 41:1-44:17; Numbers 7:24-29
Haftarah: Zechariah 2:14-4:7
Besorah: John 10:22-42
Kislev 27, 5785 | December 28, 2024
Shalom Chaverim (Friends)!
This week’s Torah portion, Miketz (Genesis 41:1–44:17), falls during the celebration of Hanukkah, and our readings from the Torah, Haftarah, and Besorah highlight a powerful message about the role of unity in God’s redemptive plans.
Hanukkah is a celebration of light, but it’s also a story of a divided people coming together to rededicate themselves to God. In the Torah portion, we see the divided family of Jacob begin a journey of reconciliation.
In the Haftarah, Zechariah’s vision points to the unity of God’s Spirit bringing restoration to Israel. And in the Besorah, Yeshua emphasizes the unity between Himself and the Father, calling us into that same relationship.
Let’s dive deeper into these readings and discover how they call us to pursue unity in our families, communities, and faith.
You can download a printable copy of this portion along with study and reflection questions at the end of this post!
Torah Portion: Genesis 41:1–44:17
Understanding the Portion
Joseph’s story takes a dramatic turn in this portion. After years of suffering in prison, Joseph is brought before Pharaoh to interpret his dreams about seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine. His interpretation, coupled with a God-given plan to store food, leads to his elevation as second-in-command over all of Egypt.
Meanwhile, Joseph’s brothers come to Egypt seeking food during the famine. Joseph recognizes them but chooses to conceal his identity, testing their character to see if they have changed since selling him into slavery. This sets the stage for a heart-wrenching journey of reconciliation that will unfold in the coming chapters.
Key Verses:
- Genesis 41:38: Pharaoh declares, “Can a man like this be found, one in whom is the spirit of God?” This marks a profound acknowledgment of God’s presence in Joseph’s life.
- Genesis 42:21-24: The brothers admit their guilt over their past treatment of Joseph, showing the beginning of repentance.
Jewish Commentary:
Rashi explains that Pharaoh’s recognition of Joseph’s wisdom as divinely inspired set him apart from all the other magicians and sages of Egypt. Ramban notes that Joseph’s harsh treatment of his brothers wasn’t out of revenge but to lead them toward repentance and healing, which was necessary for their family’s future unity.
A Little Nugget:
The word Miketz (מקץ) means “at the end,” symbolizing the conclusion of Joseph’s personal trials and the beginning of God’s greater plan for his family. Hanukkah similarly marks the end of oppression and the beginning of rededication and light.
Application:
Think about a challenging relationship in your life. How can you take the first step toward reconciliation? Like Joseph, sometimes the path to unity begins with humility and a willingness to trust God’s timing.
Haftarah: Zechariah 2:14–4:7
Understanding the Portion
Zechariah’s prophetic vision centers on the restoration of Israel and the Temple after exile. God promises to dwell among His people, emphasizing His desire for unity and relationship:
“‘Sing and rejoice, O daughter of Zion! For behold, I am coming and I will live among you’—it is a declaration of Adonai.”
Zechariah 2:14 tlv
The vision also includes Joshua the High Priest standing before God, with Satan accusing him. God rebukes Satan, clothes Joshua in clean garments, and reinstates him, symbolizing the renewal and restoration of Israel. This image highlights God’s mercy and His power to unify His people.
Key Verses:
- Zechariah 3:1-5: Joshua’s cleansing and renewal represent the restoration of Israel’s leadership and spiritual unity.
- Zechariah 4:6: “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit.” This verse captures the essence of God’s work in bringing unity and restoration.
A Little Nugget:
The menorah’s seven lamps symbolize completeness and unity. The oil, flowing endlessly from the olive trees, reminds us that God’s Spirit is the source of our strength and the foundation of our unity.
Application:
Where in your life are you relying on your own strength instead of trusting in God’s Spirit? Unity begins when we let God’s Spirit work in and through us, transforming our relationships and communities.
Besorah: John 10:22–42
Understanding the Portion
The Besorah takes us to the Feast of Dedication (Hanukkah), where Yeshua is teaching in the Temple. The people ask Him to declare plainly whether He is the Messiah, but His response points to His works as evidence of His identity:
“The works that I do in My Father’s name testify about Me”
John 10:25 tlv
Yeshua emphasizes His unity with the Father, saying, “I and the Father are one” (John 10:30). This statement underscores the oneness of God and the invitation for His followers to reflect that unity in their own lives.
Hanukkah, a time of rededication, reminds us to realign ourselves with God’s will and to seek unity with Him and others.
Key Verses:
- John 10:27-29: “My sheep hear My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” Yeshua describes the relationship of trust and unity between Himself and His followers.
- John 10:30: “I and the Father are one.” This declaration calls us to reflect God’s unity in our relationships and actions.
A Little Nugget:
The word Chanukah (חֲנוּכָּה) means dedication, but it also comes from the root chinuch (חִנּוּךְ), meaning education or training. Just as the Temple was rededicated, we are called to continually educate and dedicate ourselves to God’s purposes, fostering unity with Him and others.
Application:
How can you rededicate yourself to listening for Yeshua’s voice in your life? What steps can you take this week to reflect God’s unity in your relationships and community?
Connecting the Readings: Unity in God’s Spirit
The common thread in this week’s readings is God’s desire for unity:
- In the Torah portion, Joseph begins the process of reconciling his family, modeling the power of forgiveness and restoration.
- In the Haftarah, Zechariah’s vision of the menorah reminds us that unity and restoration come through God’s Spirit, not human effort.
- In the Besorah, Yeshua calls us to live in unity with Him and the Father, reflecting God’s oneness in our lives.
Hanukkah provides the perfect backdrop for this message. The story of the Maccabees reminds us that unity is essential for rededication, whether in the Temple, our communities, or our own hearts.
Reflection Questions
Joseph’s journey shows how God’s plans unfold in His perfect timing. How can you trust in God’s timing when your own plans seem uncertain?
- Zechariah’s vision of the menorah reminds us of God’s Spirit as our source of strength. How can you rely more on His Spirit to guide your decisions?
- Yeshua speaks of unity with the Father during Hanukkah. How can you reflect this unity in your relationships with others?
- Hanukkah celebrates light breaking into darkness. What areas of your life need God’s light to bring clarity and hope?
- Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers begins the journey toward reconciliation. Is there someone you need to forgive to bring healing and unity?
Shabbat Shalom and Happy Hanukkah! May this week inspire you to trust in God’s light, share it with others, and walk confidently in His promises. 🌟
Hebrew Lesson for the Week: Chet (ח)
This week, let’s explore the eighth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Chet (ח). This letter carries profound symbolism, reflecting themes of life, community, and connection with God.
The Basics of Chet (ח):
- Sound: Chet is pronounced as a guttural “kh” sound, similar to the “ch” in the German word Bach.
- Numerical Value: The numerical value of Chet is 8, symbolizing new beginnings, life, and transcendence beyond the natural order (which is represented by the number 7).
- Appearance: Chet resembles a doorway or arch, symbolizing an opening to a new level of understanding or spiritual life.
How Chet Is Written
ח
Chet is formed by combining two components:
- Vav (ו): A vertical stroke on the left, representing connection and humility.
- Zayin (ז): A vertical stroke on the right, often symbolizing nourishment or provision.
- A small connecting line at the top: This unites the two strokes, forming a bridge between them.
The structure of Chet reflects the merging of opposites—spiritual and physical, heaven and earth, or even male and female—creating harmony and completeness.
Spiritual Meaning of Chet
Chet is often associated with chayim (חַיִּים), meaning life. This connection to life emphasizes the sanctity of existence and the unity God desires for His people.
- In Jewish tradition, life is seen as a divine gift, and Chet’s shape as a doorway reminds us to enter into life with purpose and intention.
- Chet also represents community and connection, as life is most meaningful when shared with others and centered on God.
Chet in Scripture
Chet begins many significant Hebrew words, revealing its deep spiritual meaning:
- Chesed (חֶסֶד): Loving-kindness, a central attribute of God, often mentioned in descriptions of His covenantal love (Exodus 34:6).
- Chayim (חַיִּים): Life, as seen in Proverbs 3:18, where the Torah is described as a “tree of life” to those who take hold of it.
In Scripture, Chet often appears in verses emphasizing God’s sustaining power and the vibrancy of spiritual life. For example:
- Deuteronomy 30:19: “I have set before you life and death, blessing and curse. Therefore, choose life (chayim), so that you and your descendants may live.”
A Little Nugget: The Open Door of Life
Chet’s shape as a doorway reminds us that God invites us to step into a life of holiness and connection with Him. The numerical value of 8 also signifies transcendence—a reminder that through God’s Spirit, we can rise above challenges and live in His abundant grace.
Application: Walking Through the Doorway
Chet challenges us to reflect on how we live out the life God has given us. Are we nurturing our relationships, embracing God’s chesed, and seeking His guidance in our daily lives?
This week, let Chet remind you to walk through the “doorway” of life with purpose. Embrace opportunities to show loving-kindness, connect with others, and deepen your relationship with God.
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For a printable version of this portion along with study and reflection questions, follow the link below!
Tree of Life (TLV) – Scripture taken from the Holy Scriptures, Tree of Life Version*. Copyright © 2014,2016 by the Tree of Life Bible Society. Used by permission of the Tree of Life Bible Society.
About Our Author
Diane Ferreira is a Jewish believer, wife, and mom, as well as a proud bulldog mom. She is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Jewish Studies at seminary, deepening her passion for Scripture and Jewish history. Diane writes with a heart to connect the rich traditions of her Jewish heritage with her faith in Yeshua, offering insights that inspire believers to grow in their walk with God. When she’s not studying or writing, Diane enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and crochet.