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Download the notes herehttps://esm.us/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/12.13.25-Congregational-Notes-4.pdf*********************************Website: esm.usPastor Mark BiltzMission Statement: (https://esm.us/about/)El Shaddai Ministries exists to take Torah to the nations by restoring the Biblical and historical perspectives that have been lost over the last 2000 years, uncovering replacement theology, and healing our Christian-Jewish relationships.Statement of Beliefs:https://tinyurl.com/4ks6eznu
Dr. Julian Ungar-Sargon shares Netziv commentaries on the parsha. These sessions are held on Zoom every week in memory of our mother in-law whose dedication to the Netziv (her great great grandfather), was legendary. It is estimated she studied the Ha'amek Davar some 78 times throughout her life, devoting every Tuesday to its study. May her memory be a blessing to her family and klal Yisroel.
פרשת וישב וחנוכה מספר בת עין Chanuka in Parashat Vayeshev according to Bat Ain
Parashat Vayeshev. Halachik questions on the parasha by Rabbi Benjamin Lavian
פרשת וישב. Gematriaot on Parashat Vayeshev by Rabbi Benjamin Lavian
The Torah reading this week begins the story of Yosef, or Joseph, favored son of Yaakov. Join Mark Call of Shabbat Shalom Mesa fellowship for a two-part look at parsha “Vayeshev,” Genesis chapters 37 through 40, where the story begins, and builds on dreams. The Erev Shabbat reading: https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/SSM-12-12-25-Vayeshev-teaching-podcast-xx.mp3 While this parsha contains a number of ‘nuggets’, or memorable elements, images, and component lessons, the midrash suggests that even the structure of the story is all about a ‘long-term’ plan of YHVH. This reading itself is only just the beginning of a series of what might be called “cliff-hangers,” where we see, as do Yosef and his brothers, that structure being put in place for what is to come. In any number of ways… Vayeshev: ‘Two Dreams, Two Witnesses – Who can BUT Prophesy’ https://hebrewnationonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/WT-CooH-12-13-25-Vayeshev-Two-Dreams-Two-witnesses-Who-can-BUT-prophesy-podcast-xxx.mp3 The combined two-part reading and Sabbath midrash:
Volume 25 Vayeshev 1
Rabbi Pinchas Allouche, head Rabbi at Congregation Beth Tefillah in Scottsdale, and the host of the Rabbi Allouche podcast, joins Seth for the full hour to talk about this week's Torah portion, Parashat Vayeshev, coming from Genesis, the story of Joseph, and the coming Hebrew holiday of Hanukkah.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Join us for our weekly torah portion readings now in Audio form!
The Trials and Temptations of Joseph - Torah Portion - Vayeshev: (Genesis 37–40) by Shawn Ozbun
The difference between the perspectives of Yosef and Yehudah and which one we should strive to emulate.
Cycles of Growth
In this week's shiur, we explore one of the most electrifying themes in Torah: the power of yearning.From Yaakov Avinu's inability to be comforted over Yosef, to Rebbe Nachman's legendary teaching of “Never give up hope,” we uncover the spiritual DNA inside every Jew — the part of us that's still a na'ar, still searching, still asking, still alive.Yosef HaTzaddik is called a “na'ar” because he tapped into that inner childlike curiosity — the part of us that refuses to settle, that refuses to stop seeking Hashem. Deep down, Yaakov knew Yosef was alive, because deep down we all know:
Rabbi Amy Bernstein's weekly Torah study class via Zoom - Bereshit/Genesis 37:1 - December 12, 2025.
Latest episode of the podcast. Please consider sponsoring a class online in someones merit, memory or refuah shelemah. You can donate here in the app or send us an email at info@ejsny.org with the dedication you want to make. Thanks!
VaYeshev: Rasing Your Inner Self by Rabbi Avi Harari
This a Messianic Torah reflection on Genesis 37:1-36, focusing on the life and story of Yosef (Joseph), son of Ya'achov (Jacob), and its prophetic and spiritual significance. It explores the patriarchal sojourning in the promised land, the familial dynamics, and the parallels between Yosef's experiences and the life and ministry of Yahoshua Messiah (Jesus). Patriarchal Sojourners in the Promised Land Ya'achov settles in the land of Canaan, the land promised by Yehovah, continuing the pattern of the patriarchs sojourning in the promised land without fully possessing it, as noted in Hebrews 11:8-10. Ya'achov returns to Hebron, the home of his father Yitschaq, who never left this place . The Story of Yosef as the Story of Ya'achov The narrative shifts from Ya'achov to his son Yosef, whose story is central to the continuation of the covenant promises. Yosef is portrayed as a vessel chosen by Yehovah to preserve Yisra'el, despite rejection and persecution by his brothers. His life is seen as a prophetic shadow of Yahoshua Messiah . Family Dynamics and Yosef's Role Yosef, at 17 years old, is shepherding his brothers' flocks and assumed to be the "Son of the Covenant." His favored status by Ya'achov and his unique character set him apart. The Hebrew term for "tended" implies Yosef shepherded his brothers, especially those of Bilhah and Zilpah's sons. Reuben, the eldest, though complicit in Yosef's near enslavement, intervenes to save his life, unknowingly cooperating with Yah's plan . Ya'achov's Love and the Birthright Question Ya'achov's love for Yosef, his son of old age and Rachel's firstborn, causes jealousy among the brothers. Yosef receives a special garment, the "ketonet passim," often interpreted as a long-sleeved or multi-colored tunic symbolizing his favored status and possibly his appointment as clan leader, replacing Reuben due to his transgression . Brothers' Hatred and Rejection of Yosef The brothers' hatred stems from Ya'achov's love for Yosef and Yosef's role as a family tattler. Their rejection of Yosef reflects a rejection of their father and Yehovah. This familial rejection parallels how Yeshua was rejected by Judah for being beloved by His Father . Yosef's Prophetic Dreams and Their Impact Yosef shares two prophetic dreams symbolizing his future authority over his brothers. The first involves sheaves of grain bowing to his sheaf, and the second depicts the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowing to him, representing his family. These dreams intensify the brothers' hatred, though Ya'achov ponders their meaning carefully. These dreams foreshadow Yosef's exaltation in Egypt and reflect a common ancient Near Eastern motif of paired dreams . Preparation for Yosef's Trials and Glorification Yosef's journey toward exaltation involves trials and refining, much like the future glorification of Yeshua Messiah, who foretold the hardships His disciples would endure. Yosef's obedience to his father's mission parallels Yeshua's obedience to His Heavenly Father's will . Yosef's Mission to Find His Brothers Ya'achov sends Yosef to check on his brothers pasturing in Shechem, a dangerous area with a troubled family history. Yosef's persistence in seeking his brothers despite challenges parallels Yeshua's mission to seek and save the lost. A mysterious man redirects Yosef to Dothan, possibly an angelic figure, highlighting divine guidance in fulfilling Yah's plan . The Brothers' Conspiracy and Reuben's Intervention The brothers plot to kill Yosef but Reuben intervenes, forbidding bloodshed and planning to rescue Yosef later. Reuben's actions reflect a complex family dynamic and his attempt to restore his firstborn responsibilities despite past failings . Yosef's Humiliation and Sale into Slavery Upon meeting Yosef, the brothers strip him of his special robe, symbolically removing his dignity, mirroring how Yeshua was stripped before crucifixion. They cast Yosef into a cistern and later sell him to Ishmaelite merchants for twenty pieces of silver. This act, intended to destroy Yosef, ultimately fulfills Yah's plan for salvation . The Brothers' Deception and Ya'achov's Grief The brothers deceive Ya'achov by presenting Yosef's bloodied robe, claiming he was killed by a wild animal. Ya'achov mourns deeply, rending his clothes and refusing to be comforted, expressing his profound loss and grief . Yosef's Journey in Egypt Yosef is sold to Potiphar, an Egyptian official, marking the beginning of his rise in Egypt and the unfolding of Yah's providential plan . Spiritual Reflections on Dreams and Prophecy The document reflects on the significance of dreams as divine communication in Hebrew tradition, noting that prophets often received messages through dreams. Yosef is seen as a prophet whose dreams reveal Yah's Will. The symbolism in Yosef's dreams connects to broader prophetic imagery, including the woman clothed with the sun in Revelation 12, representing Yisra'el . Messianic Parallels Between Yosef and Yeshua The narrative draws extensive parallels between Yosef and Yeshua Messiah: Both are beloved sons of their fathers. Both are appointed to shepherd Yisra'el. Both face rejection and hatred from their brethren. Both suffer humiliation and are ultimately exalted. Both serve as instruments of salvation for Yisra'el and the nations. Both experiences demonstrate how divine plans prevail despite human evil . The teaching concludes by emphasizing that Torah readings like this one serve as shadows of greater spiritual realities to come and encourages readers to find further Messianic insights within the text .
Chelek 25, Vayeshev 1
Thoughts and Lessons from the Parsha and Chanukas
Parshas Vayeshev-Ohavei Hashem
History advances through concealment. When the world darkens, we must know the inner light is gathering strength. In 1972, Rabbi Yaakov Asher Sinclair opened SARM Studios the first 24-track recording studio in Europe where Queen mixed "Bohemian Rhapsody". His music publishing company, Druidcrest Music published the music for The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1973) and as a record producer, he co-produced the quadruple-platinum debut album by American band "Foreigner" (1976). American Top ten singles from this album included, "Feels Like The First Time", "Cold as Ice" and "Long, Long Way from Home". Other production work included "The Enid – In the Region of the Summer Stars", "The Curves", and "Nutz" as well as singles based on The Hitchhiker's Guide To The Galaxy with Douglas Adams and Richard O'Brien. Other artists who used SARM included: ABC, Alison Moyet, Art of Noise, Brian May, The Buggles, The Clash, Dina Carroll, Dollar, Flintlock, Frankie Goes To Hollywood, Grace Jones, It Bites, Malcolm McLaren, Nik Kershaw, Propaganda, Rush, Rik Mayall, Stephen Duffy, and Yes. In 1987, he settled in Jerusalem to immerse himself in the study of Torah. His two Torah books The Color of Heaven, on the weekly Torah portion, and Seasons of the Moon met with great critical acclaim. Seasons of the Moon, a unique fine-art black-and-white photography book combining poetry and Torah essays, has now sold out and is much sought as a collector's item fetching up to $250 for a mint copy. He is much in demand as an inspirational speaker both in Israel, Great Britain and the United States. He was Plenary Keynote Speaker at the Agudas Yisrael Convention, and Keynote Speaker at Project Inspire in 2018. Rabbi Sinclair lectures in Talmud and Jewish Philosophy at Ohr Somayach/Tannenbaum College of Judaic studies in Jerusalem and is a senior staff writer of the Torah internet publications Ohrnet and Torah Weekly. His articles have been published in The Jewish Observer, American Jewish Spirit, AJOP Newsletter, Zurich's Die Jüdische Zeitung, South African Jewish Report and many others. Rabbi Sinclair was born in London, and lives with his family in Jerusalem. He was educated at St. Anthony's Preparatory School in Hampstead, Clifton College, and Bristol University. A Project Of Ohr.Edu Questions? Comments? We'd Love To Hear From You At: Podcasts@Ohr.Edu https://podcasts.ohr.edu/
*מאי חנוכה* שמירת עיניים
پاراشا ویشو Parashat Vayeshev - the secret of dreams and insights into parasha by Rabbi Benjamin Lavian
Rabbi Feiner shiurim
Vayeshev 5786 The foundation for our redemption
Cuál era el plan de Yosef con los hermanos y qué fue exactamente lo que falló? La respuesta es más profunda de lo que podemos imaginar.
Cuál era el plan de Yosef con los hermanos y qué fue exactamente lo que falló? La respuesta es más profunda de lo que podemos imaginar.
Genesis 37:1-40:23
Joseph's life story is one of the most masterful literary arcs in the whole of scripture. It goes far beyond just an example of brotherly jealous provoked by parental favoritism. The complex characters are fully developed so that no one is entirely guilty or innocent. The setting changes from pit to palace to prison as the storyline progresses. Although God does not make a dramatic appearance to Joseph, like the burning bush or a wrestling angel, he speaks to him in dreams, both his own and others. The entire time a tension hangs over the story asking the reader to discern between human agency and divine providence. Support the show
The Rambam argues that sin offerings are so often goats because the brothers dipped Joseph's coat into goat blood. In fact, in just a few words, he reframes our understanding of offerings, sin, repentance, and Jewish peoplehood. And we learn of the debts we carry. Sources: Guide 3:46, Gen. 37:31
Seemingly contradictory implications can potentially be resolved with an understanding of the issue of wanting to live in "tranquility".
A collection of short Divrei Torah on the weekly Parsha for your Shabbos table.
Parshat Vayeshev - 2025 - פרשת וישב
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Yaakov wrote down the timing of the dream
Welcome back to Torah in Real Time, where we bring the Torah into conversation with the world we're living in right now. This week, we enter Vayeshev, a portion that opens with a word that sounds so gentle — vayeshev, “and he settled.” But the calm barely lasts a verse. Almost immediately, the Torah pulls us into a family tearing at the seams, a teenager cast out of his home, and a world where innocence offers no protection. Joseph begins this parsha as a gifted, dreamy, maybe naïve young man — but still very much a child. And yet, like far too many young people today, he finds himself suddenly homeless through no fault of his own. His brothers strip him, betray him, and sell him away. Joseph becomes the biblical face of a tragedy we still witness in our own cities: youth pushed into the streets because of conflict, jealousy, misunderstanding, or because they simply don't “fit” the system around them. Vayeshev asks us a piercing question: What becomes of a young soul when the very people meant to protect them send them into the wilderness? But Joseph's fall doesn't end there. He is wrongfully accused, imprisoned, and silenced — another victim of a broken justice system. And as we read his story, we can't help but see reflections of the millions today who sit behind bars for crimes they didn't commit, casualties of bias, error, or circumstance. People whose brilliance, creativity, and promise remain locked away behind someone else's mistake. And yet — and this is where Vayeshev shines — the Torah insists that resilience can rise from the rubble. Even in confinement, Joseph becomes a leader. Even without a home, he builds community. Even when forgotten, he interprets dreams — his own and those of others — reminding us that purpose can survive even in the darkest places. So as we study Vayeshev this week, we look at Joseph not as a distant biblical figure, but as a mirror held up to our world. Whom have we cast out? Whom have we overlooked? Whom have we locked away? And perhaps most urgently — who among them carries a spark the world desperately needs? Vayeshev calls us to recognize the Josephs of today: the homeless youth sleeping in shelters and doorways, the wrongfully convicted waiting for justice, the dreamers whose hope flickers but has not gone out. May this portion remind us that greatness often begins with someone the world tried to discard — and that our work, in real time, is to bring them back into the circle of dignity, safety, and hope. ——
Welcome back to Torah in Real Time, where we bring the Torah into conversation with the world we're living in right now. This week, we enter Vayeshev, a portion that opens with a word that sounds so gentle — vayeshev, “and he settled.” But the calm barely lasts a verse. Almost immediately, the Torah pulls us into a family tearing at the seams, a teenager cast out of his home, and a world where innocence offers no protection. Joseph begins this parsha as a gifted, dreamy, maybe naïve young man — but still very much a child. And yet, like far too many young people today, he finds himself suddenly homeless through no fault of his own. His brothers strip him, betray him, and sell him away. Joseph becomes the biblical face of a tragedy we still witness in our own cities: youth pushed into the streets because of conflict, jealousy, misunderstanding, or because they simply don't “fit” the system around them. Vayeshev asks us a piercing question: What becomes of a young soul when the very people meant to protect them send them into the wilderness? But Joseph's fall doesn't end there. He is wrongfully accused, imprisoned, and silenced — another victim of a broken justice system. And as we read his story, we can't help but see reflections of the millions today who sit behind bars for crimes they didn't commit, casualties of bias, error, or circumstance. People whose brilliance, creativity, and promise remain locked away behind someone else's mistake. And yet — and this is where Vayeshev shines — the Torah insists that resilience can rise from the rubble. Even in confinement, Joseph becomes a leader. Even without a home, he builds community. Even when forgotten, he interprets dreams — his own and those of others — reminding us that purpose can survive even in the darkest places. So as we study Vayeshev this week, we look at Joseph not as a distant biblical figure, but as a mirror held up to our world. Whom have we cast out? Whom have we overlooked? Whom have we locked away? And perhaps most urgently — who among them carries a spark the world desperately needs? Vayeshev calls us to recognize the Josephs of today: the homeless youth sleeping in shelters and doorways, the wrongfully convicted waiting for justice, the dreamers whose hope flickers but has not gone out. May this portion remind us that greatness often begins with someone the world tried to discard — and that our work, in real time, is to bring them back into the circle of dignity, safety, and hope. ——
The two main stories in the parasha - the story of Yoseph and the story of Yehudah - form the basis for Joseph being the chariot of Yesod, the implementer of Tiferet - Jacob. Likewise, Yoseph is the source of the Messiah Ben Yoseph - the developmental stage of humanity preceding the era of enlightenment and spirituality - the Messiah Ben David. Are we witnessing a transition between the two periods? At such a dramatic time in human history? Will we soon see a wave of spiritual awakening coming from the upper worlds? Meditation of Emunah - Connection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gITjyVrM4yE Meditation of ascending from below - Drawing Light from above: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b8AzyLFM2AY For a short reading about this Parashah: https://livekabbalah.org/vayeshev Join our course program: https://livekabbalah.org/live-kabbalah-courses Join our Zoom Program: https://livekabbalah.org/weekly-zohar-study-live Support our efforts to provide you with more materials, donate to Live Kabbalah: https://livekabbalah.org/donations
Vayeshev | The Apocrypha and the Midrash, by Rav Yitzchak Etshalom Is there anything legitimately "Jewish" about apocryphal Midrashim? We are accustomed to thinking of the Apocrypha (the "hidden" or "buried" writings of the 3rd century BCE through the first century CE) as external to our Rabbinic tradition and to reflecting purely sectarian approaches and interpretations. Yet - we sometimes find a common thread between the interpretive approaches taken in these somewhat esoteric books and those found in our "mainstream" Midrashic literature. We examine an unusual passage in the apocryphal "Testament of Judah" and find a curious commonality appearing nearly a millennium later in Midrash Bereishit Rabbati. Source sheet >>
Welcome to the Covenant & Conversation series, Rabbi Sacks' commentary pieces on the weekly Torah portion, exploring ideas and sharing inspiration from the Torah readings of the week. This audio on Vayeshev was recorded by Rabbi Sacks in 2019. Follow along, download this week's essay, and see all translations, here: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation/vayeshev/refusing-comfort-keeping-hope/ For intergenerational discussion on the weekly Parsha, a new FAMILY EDITION is now also available: https://rabbisacks.org/covenant-conversation-family-edition/vayeshev/refusing-comfort-keeping-hope/ ________________________ For more articles, videos, and other material from Rabbi Sacks, please visit www.RabbiSacks.org and follow @RabbiSacks. The Rabbi Sacks Legacy continues to share weekly inspiration from Rabbi Sacks. With thanks to the Schimmel Family for their generous sponsorship of Covenant & Conversation, dedicated in loving memory of Harry (Chaim) Schimmel.
Latest episode of the podcast. Please consider sponsoring a class online in someones merit, memory or refuah shelemah. You can donate here in the app or send us an email at info@ejsny.org with the dedication you want to make. Thanks!
Parashat VaYeshev - The Courage To Admit You Were Wrong by Rabbi Avi Harari