Yaakov’s Final Blessings: Hidden Meanings and Timeless Lessons

1. Why Is This Called a “True Kindness”?

Shortly before his passing, Yaakov asked Yosef not to bury him in Egypt, requesting that he perform with him “chesed shel emet” — kindness of truth.

Why is this act described as a kindness “of truth”? Is there a kindness that is not true?

The sages explain that the kindness done for the dead is called a true kindness, because no reward or repayment is expected from the person who has passed away. It is kindness done purely for its own sake, without any personal gain, and is therefore considered the truest form of kindness.

An additional beautiful insight is that the Hebrew word אמת (emet) is understood as an acronym for the things prepared for the deceased: aron (coffin), mitah (bed), and tachrichim (burial shrouds).

2. What Should a Person Pray for in Old Age?

A person should pray for his old age: that his eyes continue to see, his mouth continue to eat, and his legs continue to walk, because in old age these abilities can gradually weaken.

In addition, one should pray that his mind remain clear and settled, that he remember his learning, and that he retain strength in all his limbs and sinews.

This is a prayer not only for physical health, but also for dignity, clarity, and inner strength in later years.

3. Did Yosef Have Other Children Besides Ephraim and Menashe?

Yes.

According to the Ramban, Yosef had additional children besides Ephraim and Menashe, although the Torah specifically highlights these two because of their unique role in Yaakov’s blessing and in the future formation of the tribes.

4. What Does “One Portion More” Mean?

The verse states that Yaakov tells Yosef he is giving him “one shechem more than your brothers.”

According to the Jerusalem Targum, this refers to the garment of Adam, the special clothing traditionally associated with Adam the first man, which Yaakov gave to Yosef.

This interpretation gives the verse a symbolic and deeply spiritual meaning beyond a simple portion of land.

5. Which of Yaakov’s Sons Knew the End of Days?

According to the Baal HaTurim, Yosef knew the appointed end or time of redemption. This reflects on Yosef’s prophetic stature and spiritual insight.

6. What Does “Cursed Be Their Anger” Mean?

In Yaakov’s blessing to Shimon and Levi, it says: “Cursed be their anger.”

According to the Chizkuni, Yaakov was blessing them that their anger should not succeed — that they should not become accustomed to being quick-tempered or wrathful.

This is not merely criticism, but a blessing that they be protected from developing a destructive trait.

7. How Fast Was Naphtali?

Naphtali was known for extraordinary speed.

According to Sefer HaYashar, he ran so swiftly that he could run over stalks of grain without breaking them.

This vivid description emphasizes the exceptional lightness and speed associated with Naphtali.