Parashat Miketz

A Torah teaching for the Western environmentalist.

Judaism can provide spiritual sustenance to those who need it, to those who seek it.

We must use our gifts of wealth, education, and influence to improve conditions for the poor and powerless.

Joseph's tears, public and private

Joseph serves as a model of creating opportunities for repentance and forgiveness.

Fear paralyzes us, rendering us incapable of addressing our most pressing problems.

In naming his sons, Joseph communicates his thoughts on living in Egypt, alone and distant from his family.

Joseph's actions in dealing with the famine challenge us to strive for a delicate balance of power and compassion.

By personally handing out rations, Joseph established a human connection and involvement with those for whom he provided.

Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams and is appointed to implement Egypt's anti-famine plan, which brings him into contact with his brothers again.