Torah Portion Vayigash – Restoration and Redemption
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Torah: Genesis 44:18-47:27
Haftarah: Ezekiel 37:15-28
Besorah: John 5:16-29
Tevet 4, 5785 | January 4, 2025
Shalom Chaverim (Friends)!
This week’s Torah portion, Vayigash (Genesis 44:18–47:27), brings us to one of the most emotional and transformative moments in the story of Joseph and his brothers. It’s a story of restoration and redemption, not just for a fractured family but for a nation.
The theme of restoration continues in the Haftarah (Ezekiel 37:15–28), where God promises to unite the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah under one King. In the Besorah (John 5:16–29), Yeshua reveals His redemptive mission, emphasizing the promise of life and unity through Him.
Let’s explore these readings and see how they call us to embrace restoration and redemption in our own lives.
You can download a printable copy of this portion along with study and reflection questions at the end of this post!
Torah Portion: Genesis 44:18–47:27
Understanding the Portion
The portion opens with Judah stepping forward to intercede for Benjamin. His words are heartfelt, showing his willingness to take responsibility and sacrifice himself for his brother.
This is a significant change from the Judah who once sold Joseph into slavery. Judah’s plea shows the power of transformation through humility and repentance.
When Joseph reveals his identity, he does so with tears, saying:
“So now, don’t be grieved and don’t be angry in your own eyes that you sold me here—since it was for preserving life that God sent me here before you.”
Genesis 45:5 tlv
Joseph chooses forgiveness over bitterness, recognizing that God’s hand was at work even in his suffering. This moment of restoration is a powerful example of how God can use our pain to bring about His purposes.
Later, Jacob receives the incredible news that Joseph is alive. Despite his initial doubts, he sets out for Egypt after hearing God’s assurance:
“I Myself will go down with you to Egypt and I Myself will also most certainly bring you up”
Genesis 46:4 tlv
This shows us that even in uncertain times, God’s promises stay true.
Lesson for Us: Joseph’s story reminds us that God’s plans are often bigger than we can see in the moment. He can use even our pain and challenges to bring about something greater.
Key Verses:
- Genesis 45:5-7: Joseph tells his brothers, “God sent me ahead of you to preserve life.” This shows his recognition of God’s redemptive plan, even through suffering.
- Genesis 46:3-4: God reassures Jacob, saying, “Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there.”
Jewish Commentary:
Rashi notes that Judah’s intercession foreshadows the role of Messiah as an intercessor for humanity. Joseph’s forgiveness of his brothers is also seen as a model for teshuvah (repentance) and reconciliation.
A Little Nugget:
The name Vayigash (וַיִּגַּשׁ) means “and he approached.” This act of drawing near symbolizes courage, humility, and a willingness to reconcile. It reminds us that restoration often requires taking the first step, even when it’s difficult.
Application:
Are there relationships in your life that need restoration? What step can you take today to approach someone with forgiveness or a desire to reconcile?
Haftarah: Ezekiel 37:15–28
Understanding the Portion
Ezekiel’s vision of the two sticks represents the reunification of Israel and Judah. The act of joining the sticks symbolizes God’s promise to restore what has been divided. He says:
“I will make them one nation in the land, on the mountains of Israel, and one king will be king to them all. They will no longer be two nations and never again be divided into two kingdoms.”
Ezekiel 37:22 TLV
This prophecy is not just about physical reunification but about spiritual renewal. God promises to cleanse His people and dwell with them through an everlasting covenant: “My dwelling place will be with them; I will be their God, and they will be My people” (Ezekiel 37:27).
The Messianic vision of unity and peace points us to the ultimate restoration brought by Yeshua, our Messiah. Just as God promised to bring the divided kingdoms together, He promises to restore our brokenness and bring us into unity with Him.
Lesson for Us: Unity requires more than just coming together—it requires surrendering our divisions to God. This could mean letting go of grudges, seeking reconciliation, or choosing peace in conflict.
Key Verses:
- Ezekiel 37:22: “I will make them one nation in the land… and one king will be king for all of them.” This points to God’s redemptive plan to unify His people.
- Ezekiel 37:26: “I will make a covenant of peace with them; it will be an everlasting covenant.”
Jewish Commentary:
Radak explains that the two sticks represent the divided kingdoms of Israel and Judah, while Rashi highlights that the promise of one King refers to the Messianic era. This vision demonstrates God’s desire for unity and restoration among His people.
A Little Nugget:
The word shalom (שָׁלוֹם) appears in this passage, emphasizing the peace and completeness that only God can bring. True restoration comes when we align ourselves with His plans and purposes.
Application:
What divisions in your life, family, or community need God’s shalom? How can you be an instrument of unity and peace this week?
Besorah: John 5:16–29
Understanding the Portion
In this passage, Yeshua speaks of His authority as the Son of God and His role in giving life. He says, “The Son gives life to whomever He wants” (John 5:21), emphasizing His power to restore and redeem.
Yeshua explains that His works are a reflection of the Father’s will: “The Son can do nothing by Himself; He can only do what He sees His Father doing” (John 5:19). This highlights the unity between the Father and the Son, showing that Yeshua’s mission is to bring life and restoration to those who believe.
The passage also looks forward to the resurrection, when the dead will hear His voice and rise. This promise of eternal life reminds us that God’s work of redemption is not just for the present but for eternity.
Lesson for Us: Yeshua shows us that restoration begins with aligning ourselves with God’s will. Just as He followed the Father’s lead, we’re called to do the same.
Key Verses:
- John 5:21: “For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, so also the Son gives life to whomever He wants.”
- John 5:24: “He who hears My word and believes the One who sent Me has eternal life.”
A Little Nugget:
The Greek word for life here is zoe (ζωή), meaning abundant or eternal life. Yeshua’s mission is not just to restore physical health but to bring eternal life and spiritual restoration to all who believe.
Application:
How can you align your life more closely with Yeshua’s mission of bringing restoration and life? Are there areas where you need to trust Him to breathe new life into your circumstances?
Connecting the Readings: Restoration and Redemption
The readings this week call us to embrace God’s work of restoration and redemption:
- In the Torah portion, Joseph’s forgiveness and Judah’s intercession restore a fractured family and bring hope for the future.
- In the Haftarah, God promises to unify His people and establish an everlasting covenant of peace.
- In the Besorah, Yeshua offers eternal life and calls us to participate in His redemptive work.
As we reflect on these passages, let’s ask ourselves: How can we embrace God’s restoration in our lives? Where can we extend forgiveness and unity to others, mirroring the redemption we’ve received through Yeshua?
Reflection Questions for Vayigash
- Joseph forgave his brothers and sought to restore their relationship. Is there someone in your life you need to forgive or reconcile with?
- Judah’s willingness to intercede for Benjamin demonstrated his transformation. How has God worked in your life to bring about spiritual growth or change?
- In Ezekiel, God promises to unite Israel under one King. Are there areas in your life where you need to seek unity, whether with others or within yourself?
- Yeshua speaks of His authority to bring life and resurrection. How can you trust Him to bring restoration and renewal to areas of your life that feel broken?
- The theme of redemption is central to all the readings this week. How can you reflect God’s redemptive work in your daily actions and relationships?
Hebrew Lesson for the Week: Tet (ט)
This week, we’re diving into the ninth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, Tet (ט). Tet is a letter rich in symbolism, often representing goodness and hidden potential. Let’s explore what makes Tet unique and how it connects to our spiritual journey.
The Basics of Tet (ט):
- Sound: Tet is pronounced like the English “T.”
- Numerical Value: Tet has a value of 9, symbolizing potential for birth, goodness, and spiritual fruitfulness.
- Appearance: Tet is shaped like a basket or container, symbolizing something that holds or nurtures goodness.
How Tet Is Written
ט
Tet is formed with a rounded curve that folds in on itself, resembling a womb or vessel. This shape represents the idea of containing something precious, like a seed waiting to sprout or hidden goodness waiting to be revealed.
Spiritual Meaning of Tet
Tet is often associated with the word tov (טוֹב), meaning good. In fact, the first time Tet appears in the Torah is in the word tov in Genesis 1:4: “God saw that the light was good (טוֹב).” This connection reminds us that God’s creation is inherently good and that His plans for us are filled with purpose.
Tet also teaches us about hidden goodness. Sometimes life’s challenges conceal blessings, much like how Tet’s rounded form encloses its treasures.
Tet in Scripture
Tet appears in many significant words that highlight its connection to goodness and purpose:
- Tov (טוֹב): Good, as in Genesis 1:4.
- Tahor (טָהוֹר): Pure, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and holiness.
- Torah (תּוֹרָה): While not beginning with Tet, it contains the letter, reminding us of the goodness and guidance found in God’s Word.
A Little Nugget: Hidden Goodness
Jewish tradition holds that Tet’s rounded, inward shape reminds us to look inward and uncover the hidden goodness God has placed in our lives. This is often likened to spiritual growth, where the best qualities take time to emerge, much like a seed hidden in the soil.
Application: Uncovering Goodness
This week, let Tet inspire you to seek the hidden goodness in your life and others. Are there challenges you’re facing that might hold a blessing or lesson in disguise? Take time to reflect on how God’s goodness is at work, even when it’s not immediately visible.
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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.