by Rabbi Baruch Binyamin Hacohen Melman
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are that of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Union for Traditional Judaism, unless otherwise indicated.
The Torah says ”vachamushim alu vnei Yisrael me-eretz Mitzrayim” (Ex 13:18).
Translations of chamushim abound, from “carrying weapons” to “well provisioned” to “in groups of five” to “one out of five.” This also alludes to Yosef HaTzadik, in view of the next verse, which specifically mentions that Bnei Yisrael took his bones with them upon leaving Mitzrayim. “Atzmot” means both “bones” and “essence.” They took his consciousness/essence with them as well as his bones.
What is the relationship between Yosef Hatzadik and FIVE (CHaMuSH/CHaMeSH)?
In Parashat Vayigash (Gen. 47:26) we learn “…Yosef decreed that one-fifth of whatever grows on the land of Egypt belongs to Pharaoh (lePharo leChoMeSH).”
And in Parashat Miketz (Gen. 41:34) we read how Yosef advised a rationing system (CHiMeSH) during the seven years of plenty.
In the daily Tehillim for the FIFTH day, we recite Psalm 81 where Yosef’s name is written with an extra letter – Hay – equal to 5 in numerology (gematria), spelled as YHoSeF.
Thus we learn how Yosef is associated with rationing one’s resources and with giving a fifth of one’s earnings to Pharaoh.
Giving a fifth means showing tangible appreciation for the Ruler/ruler while things are good (Vayigash), while rationing means planning for the day when things will be more difficult (Miketz).
Also, one-fifth reflects the essence of the 80-20 rule in business, where 80% of business comes from the top 20% of customers, and 80% of sales derive from the efforts of the top 20% of the sales force. This rule holds true across the board, and should be known as “The Joseph Principle”. Joseph discovered it and articulated it.
When Israel left Egypt, they took Yosef’s essence and consciousness with them. Perhaps the Jewish People’s savvy business acumen derives from this intelligence.
Moreover, success can be achieved by appreciating what one has and by planning ahead for more difficult times.
May we learn from Yosef’s example to show appreciation for what we have, and to give generously of our resources to the Ruler and thus take care of His children with generosity.
This is a crucial concept in Judaism, where wealth is equated with opportunity – to thank God and to utilize our resources in His service. Understand this. Be like Yosef. Use your blessings for Good.
Shabbat Shalom!
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