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How did Yosef withstand Potiphar's wife when astrology decreed they would be together? The Midrash says he jumped "b'zechus avos"—the power Avrohom received when Hashem (ה׳) took him "hachutzah" beyond the astrological signs. That same ability to transcend nature enabled Kriyas Yam Suf in Yosef's merit and defines the Jewish people's mastery over teva.
This shiur explores the Midrashic interpretation of Yosef's escape from Potiphar's wife and its profound connection to Avrohom Avinu and Kriyas Yam Suf. The Midrash teaches that when Potiphar's wife grabbed Yosef's garment, he "jumped b'zechus avos"—drawing on the merit of the forefathers. Specifically, this refers to when Hashem (ה׳) took Avrohom "hachutzah" (outside) to look at the stars and promised him descendants beyond the astrological constraints. The Maharzu explains that according to natural law (derech hateva), Yosef should not have been able to escape. However, because Hashem established a precedent of operating above nature (l'ma'alah mi'derech hateva) with Avrohom, Yosef was empowered to overcome his yetzer hara. This wasn't merely divine assistance—it represented a fundamental principle that every Jew possesses something beyond nature that enables them to conquer their evil inclination.
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Bereishis 39:12 (Vayeishev) - Yosef and Potiphar's wife
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