E Mussar - Sabedoria para o Crescimento Pessoal: SF - # The Mistake That Delayed Yoseph's Redemption

segunda-feira, 8 de dezembro de 2025

SF - # The Mistake That Delayed Yoseph's Redemption

Refuah Shleimah to Esther Shifra bas Rivka

Yoseph had two prophetic dreams foretelling that he would one day rise to greatness. At first, he rejoiced at the prospect. But when he later suffered greatly—sold into slavery by his own brothers and imprisoned in Egypt—he concluded that these hardships proved he was no longer worthy of the prophecy’s fulfillment. Believing he had forfeited the merit to become king, Yoseph turned to the royal cupbearer and asked him to intercede with Pharaoh on his behalf. Because he relied on human help rather than fully trusting in HaShem, his imprisonment was extended for two more years.

This raises a question: If humility is such a foundational virtue, why was Yoseph punished for viewing himself as unworthy? The answer is that humility does not exempt a person from trusting in HaShem. Even if Yoseph’s spiritual standing had declined, he was still obligated to believe in HaShem’s limitless compassion. That trust alone would have brought about the fulfillment of his dreams. Regardless of one’s current spiritual state, HaShem’s salvation is never out of reach.

HaShem’s boundless compassion surpasses any failing. A person who views himself as beyond HaShem’s redemption is held accountable—not for humility, but for lacking faith in HaShem’s infinite kindness.

Today: Never despair of HaShem’s love. Even when you feel unworthy, place your sincere trust in Him, and He will guide you through every hardship.

(Based on the teachings of Rabbi Yisrael Salanter)