Vayigash meaning “And He came Near,” (Genesis 44:18–47:27) continues the story of Yoseph and his brothers. At the beginning of the parasha, Yoseph’s youngest brother, Beyamin, is accused of stealing from Pharaoh, and Yoseph holds him captive. Judah steps forward to plead for Benyamin’s release, offering himself instead, explaining that their father Ya’acov would die of grief if Benyamin did not return with them (Genesis 44:18–34).

Overcome with emotion, Yoseph can no longer keep his identity a secret. He orders everyone but his brothers to leave the room and reveals himself to them, saying, “I am Yoseph! Is my father still alive?” His brothers are shocked and speechless, but Yoseph reassures them, saying, “Do not be grieved or angry with yourselves for selling me, because G-d sent me ahead of you to preserve life… to preserve for you a remnant on earth and to save your lives by a great deliverance” (Genesis 45:3–8). Yoseph embraces his brothers, weeping, and instructs them to bring Ya’acov to Mitzrayim quickly.

Hearing of the reunion, Pharaoh sends wagons and provisions to bring Yoseph’s family from Canaan, granting them the best land in Mitzrayim. When Ya’acov hears that Yoseph is alive, he is initially in disbelief but ultimately sets out for Mitzrayim. Yoseph and Ya’acov have a deeply emotional reunion, embracing and weeping upon each other’s necks (Genesis 46:29–30). Pharaoh also meets Yoseph’s family, and Ya’acov blesses Pharaoh (Genesis 47:7–10).

The parasha concludes with the severe famine in Mitzrayim. Desperate for food, the people of Mitzrayim willingly sell their livestock, land, and eventually themselves to Pharaoh. Yoseph establishes a law that one-fifth of Mitzrayim’s produce would henceforth belong to Pharaoh, securing Pharaoh’s power and ensuring survival during the famine (Genesis 47:20–26).