Synopsis: Last night I gave a Chumash shiur on the brief and bizarre conversation between Yaakov Avinu and Paroh in Parashas Vayigash. Three of the interpretations we learned featured Stoic ideas: two from Shadal (one in the name of Rav Reggio and Gesenius, and the other in the name of his late son, Filosseno), and another from Rav Hirsch. I decided to repackage those three interpretations as today’s episode, and to release it on Thursday instead of Friday for the sake of those who are in Israel (since it’s on the parashah, and is therefore more “time-sensitive” than the usual episode).
This week's Torah content has been sponsored anonymously with appreciation for all the learning opportunities offered by YBT over Zoom.
Related Rabbi Schneeweiss Content:
- Vayigash: Yaakov's Brief and Bizarre Conversation with Paroh
- Remember that You're ALREADY Dead
- How to Shower Like You're Dying
- Counting the Weeks of My Life
- How to Enjoy the Present Day As If It’s Your Last
Sources:
- Epictetus, Enchiridion 7, 1
- Bereishis 47:7-10 with Shadal and Rav Hirsch
- Tehilim 119:19 with Rashbam and Radak; Tehilim 39:13 with Radak
- Seneca, On the Shortness of Life 3