This Parasha represents a pivotal moment in the narrative of the Torah. Two prominent figures, Yehuda and Yosef, come face to face. This encounter not only resolves a familial conflict but also exemplifies profound and exemplary attitudes of leadership, humility, and reconciliation.
Towards the end of Parashat Miketz, Yosef had taken Binyamin captive over the "theft" of his silver cup. Yehuda steps forward as a true guardian of his brother, a fitting conclusion to the book of Bereshit, which begins with Cain asking, "Am I my brother's keeper?" Suddenly, Yehuda steps into the role of the "responsible brother," fulfilling the promise he had made to his father, Yaakov (see Bereshit 43:9). He knew that without Binyamin, his father would die of grief.
Yehuda's plea at the beginning of Parashat Vayigash becomes the turning point of the saga. His courageous attitude breaks Yosef, who can no longer conceal his identity.
At first glance, Yehuda might seem like a secondary figure in the book of Bereshit. However, the Torah provides a surprising amount of biographical detail about his life. Among Yaakov's sons, only Yosef's life is recounted in greater detail. We read about Yehuda's birth and the reason behind his name. We learn about his role in the sale of Yosef, his marriage, the birth and death of his first three sons, his widowhood, and his relationship with his daughter-in-law Tamar. The Torah even details the birth of his two sons with Tamar, Peretz and Zerach. Finally, our Parasha highlights the courage Yehuda demonstrates when he intercedes with Yosef on behalf of his brother Binyamin.
Rabbi Yehuda shares in the Midrash that at that moment, Yehuda was prepared to go to war against Yosef (Bereshit Rabbah 93:6). This is astonishing. Yehuda stands before one of the most powerful men on earth, a man who holds the power of life and death, and yet he advocates for his brother.
What would we do in his place? Cry? Beg? Flatter? All these responses might seem reasonable, except for the one proposed by Rabbi Yehuda: to go to war. Would we really confront one of the most powerful men in the world?
And yet, that seems to be the case—or at least, it was Yosef’s interpretation of Yehuda’s courage.
Yehuda emerges as a leader willing to take full responsibility for what has happened. In his dialogue with Yosef, he displays a blend of bravery and empathy. He is ready to sacrifice himself for his brother Binyamin, proving that he has learned from his past mistakes, particularly his failure to defend Yosef. His attitude serves as a model of genuine teshuva (repentance), not only acknowledging his errors but also acting to correct them.
Yosef, on the other hand, shines for his ability to exercise restraint, analyze the situation objectively, and act with compassion. Despite the suffering his brothers caused him, Yosef does not seek revenge. Instead, he reveals his identity with love, demonstrating emunah (faith) and forgiveness.
The encounter between Yehuda and Yosef teaches us that greatness lies both in assuming responsibility and in offering forgiveness. It is a lesson in overcoming divisions and restoring family relationships through humility, empathy, and trust in a higher purpose.
There is a remarkable anecdote about Rabbi Marshall Meyer, of blessed memory, who founded the Conservative movement in Buenos Aires and Latin America.
In 1977, during Argentina’s military dictatorship (1976-1983), when thousands of people were disappeared and later killed, news reached Rabbi Meyer that Jacobo Timerman, a renowned Jewish-Argentine journalist, was among the "detained."
Marshall traveled to La Plata, determined to confront the devil himself, and went straight to the office of Commissioner Miguel Etchecolatz, the right-hand man of General Camps, who headed the repressive apparatus in Buenos Aires Province during those years.
"And who are you, 'priest'?" Etchecolatz asked Rabbi Meyer.
Marshall, like Yehuda in our story, was not intimidated. He stood just inches away from Etchecolatz and said, "This 'priest' is a shepherd looking for one of his lost sheep, and I know you stole him. I am Jacobo Timerman's shepherd, and I will not leave until you return my sheep."
Rabbi Marshall undoubtedly knew who he was dealing with. In the hands of these criminals lay the lives of millions of Argentines. Yet, he did not falter.
There are moments in life that do not allow for neutrality.
These are the moments when chutzpah (audacity) is the only possible response. It is in these moments, and only in these moments, that an ordinary person can suddenly become a leader.
It is no coincidence that Yehuda was the first link in the Davidic dynasty, which continues to inspire the people of Israel to this day.
This Parasha shows us how a fragmented family can reunite, rebuild trust, and strengthen its bonds. In a world where violence seeks to divide, this story inspires us to work for unity—not just within our families but also in our communities.
In today’s context, where the global spread of fear and polarization mirrors the dynamics of the Intifada, this message serves as a call to remember our ability to build bridges. It reminds us that even in challenging circumstances, hope lies in the possibility of drawing closer to one another, listening, and seeking solutions that prioritize human life and dignity over political or ideological interests.
In Parashat Vayigash, Yehuda took full responsibility for his brother Binyamin, risking his own life for another’s well-being. This highlights that authentic leadership cannot afford to prioritize personal or political interests when lives are at stake.
The delay in reaching an agreement to free hostages raises legitimate questions about whether political interests are being prioritized over human lives. Some Israeli leaders may be considering strategic, economic, or electoral factors, adding another layer of pain and frustration for the families demanding immediate action. This not only erodes trust in the government but also underscores the need for absolute transparency in times of crisis.
If the Prime Minister is more concerned about maintaining his coalition than ensuring the return of the hostages, it reflects a profound disconnect with the suffering families and the essential responsibilities of a leader. The hostages are not bargaining chips or a secondary issue; they are human beings who deserve to be the absolute priority of any government committed to defending its citizens.
Shabbat Shalom!
Rabbi Gustavo Geier