The eleventh reading from the book of Genesis is named Vayigash, which means "and he came near." The title comes from the first verse of the reading, which says, "Then Judah [came near] him" (Genesis 44:18). The portion begins with the dramatic unveiling of Joseph's true identity and his reconciliation with his brothers. It then proceeds to tell the story of the migration of Jacob's family to Egypt and the rest of the famine years. This Torah portion begins to set the stage for the Egyptian captivity of the sons of Jacob.
Portion Outline
TORAH
Genesis 44:18 | Judah Pleads for Benjamin's Release
Genesis 45:1 | Joseph Reveals Himself to His Brothers
Genesis 46:1 | Jacob Brings His Whole Family to Egypt
Genesis 46:28 | Jacob Settles in Goshen
Genesis 47:13 | The Famine in Egypt
PROPHETS
Eze 37:15 | The Two Sticks