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Why does Rashi (רש"י) describe Yaakov's bowing to Yosef differently in two instances - once as bowing to 'a fox at the proper time' and once as inappropriate subjugation? The shiur distinguishes between prostration expressing profound gratitude versus showing honor or subjugation. Life-altering favors warrant deep thanksgiving that acknowledges Divine Providence, while respect that negates one's own worth crosses into inappropriate subjugation.
This shiur addresses an apparent contradiction in Rashi (רש"י)'s commentary regarding Yaakov's interactions with Yosef. When Yaakov asks Yosef to arrange his burial outside Egypt, he bows down afterward, which Rashi describes as bowing to 'a fox at the proper time.' However, when Yosef visits his sick father, Yaakov makes a respectful gesture, and Rashi explains this as honoring a king despite their father-son relationship. The resolution lies in understanding two distinct types of prostration. The first instance represents an expression of profound gratitude - thanking someone for a favor so crucial that without it, one would feel helpless. This is similar to the prostration after bringing Bikkurim or Eliezer's thanksgiving after finding Rivka. Such gratitude acknowledges that this favor was life-altering and ultimately orchestrated by God.
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Parshas Vayechi - Yaakov's interactions with Yosef regarding burial and visits
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