HINENI – HERE I AM

בס "ד

EIN GEDANKE ÜBER PARSHAT VAYESHEV 5786

TRUSTING G-DS GUIDANCE, EVEN WHEN IT’S DIFFICULT

Unter Vayeshev (Genesis 37:13), Israel says to his son Joseph:

“Your brothers are pasturing in Shechem. Go, I will send you to them.”

Joseph responds simply and directly:

“Hineni – Here I am.”

At first glance, this seems like a polite response. But Joseph knew that his brothers hated him and that danger might be imminent, possibly even death. Yet he says, “Here I am. I will do what my father commands.” His words reflect humility, courage, and full willingness to follow G-d’s path.

What the Commentators Say

• Rashi (Genesis Rabbah 84:13) explains that “Hineni” expresses humility and readiness: Joseph was eager to carry out his father’s command, despite his brothers’ hatred.
• Ibn Ezra emphasizes that Joseph took his responsibility seriously and obeyed, even when it was dangerous.
• Radak notes that Joseph was not afraid because he trusted in G-d’s providence; nothing happens outside G-d’s plan.
• Chassidic commentaries show that what may initially appear as evil or opposition is used by G-d to fulfill a larger plan.

The Lesson for Noahides

For Noahides, this story carries a powerful message. Following the Seven Noahide Laws – the path of justice and ethics given by G-d to humanity – can sometimes involve difficult choices. It may mean that friends or family do not understand or even distance themselves, simply because the decisions of a Noahide differ from those around them.

The distinction between a Noahide and the “ordinary world” appears in both major and minor decisions:

• Major decisions: ethical choices concerning life and death, such as rejecting euthanasia because life is sacred, or maintaining honesty and justice in complex situations.
• Minor everyday decisions: a Noahide might consciously avoid private messages during work hours, respecting the employer’s time and the work for which they are being paid. To others, this may seem strict or overly conscientious, but it is a practical way to remain faithful to G-d’s path and respect others’ time and property.

As Joseph demonstrates, following the right path can sometimes be difficult. It may feel like swimming against the current or being trapped in systems and habits of the world that conflict with a Noahide’s principles. Yet remaining faithful to G-d’s guidance ultimately leads to personal growth, blessings, and the fulfillment of a higher purpose – contributing to a just and ethical world.

The Power of “Here I Am”

Joseph’s “Hineni” exemplifies courage, humility, and complete willingness to follow G-d’s path. For Noahides, it means that they can also act courageously and faithfully in both major and minor choices, even if it results in misunderstandings or temporary separation from friends or family.

The story shows that fidelity to G-d’s path helps overcome even those who may not understand or who may cause harm, through patience, love, and justice. Everything a Noahide does in accordance with G-d’s laws, no matter how difficult the path, will ultimately be turned for good.

An Invitation for Today

Noahides are invited to reflect on moments when they are called to act according to G-d’s laws – big or small – even if it leads to separation from friends or family. By saying “Hineni – Here I am,” they demonstrate courage and trust that everything that happens is part of a larger plan.

Just as Joseph experienced, faithfulness, courage, and love can ultimately turn everything to good. Those who dare to say “Here I am” open themselves to a life deeper, richer, and fuller than ever imagined – even if the path feels lonely or challenging.

Von Angelique Sijbolts
With thanks to Rabbi Tani Burton for the feedback

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