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We see that Judah becomes the leader of the family, not Joseph. This is why the royal line of David is through Judah. Joseph was the leader of Egypt, but as we know that did not last long.

When Joseph decrees that Benjamin to remain in Egypt as a slave, Judah challenges his decree. This was a major event. But it shows that we have to stand for our rights, no one else will if we don’t.

The commandment to light the Hanukah candles is very strong. We have to make sure that our Hanukkiah are visible to all. The reason is that we have to acknowledge the miracle. To show gratitude to God for His help.

On Hanukah we celebrate the victory of the morality of the Torah over Greek philosophical thought.

One of the things that we notice is that Joseph remained steadfast in his faith, no matter what the situation that he found himself in. From being a slave to being 2nd to Pharaoh, he remained a Jew.

When faced with the accusations that they were spies by the prime minister of Egypt, they began to accuse Judah of selling Joseph. The problem was that they were willing participants. We have to realize that we are still responsible for our actions.

Pharaoh’s dreams tell Joseph that God is in charge. The language used to describe the 7 beautiful cows, and the 7 lean cows is the same as when the Torah describes Rachel and Leah. That tells Joseph that the dreams are from God.

Pharaoh discovers Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams due to the advice of his cup bearer. But the way that he mentions Joseph is not complimentary. This is to show that someone who does the right thing should be honored for his action, even though he might not be good himself.

In Joseph’s dreams he shows that he is different from his family. The first one has to do with farming while the family business is being shepherds. The second he is surrounded by the sun, moon and stars. But the family did not put their faith in these things.

Joseph interprets the dreams of the butler and baker while in prison. When the butler is returned to his duties Joseph asks him to remember him to Pharaoh. The butler doesn’t. This is to teach us that we have to put our faith in God, not man.