The Blessings of Personal Destiny
Now that the family "bechora" has been awarded to Yosef, Yaakov summons all his sons together (49:1) in order to give each his personal blessing. Although each son receives what the Torah describes as a "bracha" (see 49:28 - "ish asher k'virchato bay'rach otam"), not all these "brachot" appear to be what one would call a 'blessing.'

Reuven is told: "You are unstable as water, you shall no longer excel..." (49:4).

Shimon and Levi are rebuked: "Let not my person be included in their council ... For when angry they slay men, and when pleased they maim oxen. Cursed be their anger..." (49:5-7)

On the other hand, Yehuda and Yosef are emphatically blessed with both prosperity and leadership (see 49:8-12 and 49:22-26, respectively). Other brothers also receive blessings, albeit less promising than those of Yosef and Yehuda, but blessings nonetheless, as opposed to the sharp criticism hurled upon Shimon and Levi.

What is the meaning of these "brachot?" Do the individual traits of the brothers predetermine the fate of their offspring? Do Yaakov's blessings reflect the principle of determinism and negate the concept of "bechira chofshit" (free will)?

When Yaakov blesses his children, he assumes more the role of father rather than prophet. As a parent and the last forefather of God's special Nation, he must blend the goals of his family destiny with the realities of his life experience. His blessings, therefore, reflect the potential he sees within each of his children.

In order to fulfill a goal, a person must recognize his potential, both his good qualities and shortcomings. Recognizing his children's varying strengths and weaknesses, Yaakov blesses them according to their individual capabilities and talents. Although this blessing does not necessarily guarantee the final outcome, it guides and directs each son in the proper direction.

Yaakov does not intend his harsh castigation of Reuven, Shimon and Levi to result in ultimate condemnation. Rather, he hopes that they will recognize their weakness of character and work towards its improvement. As clearly demonstrated in Levi's case, this sharp rebuke can later turn into blessing, should that shevet return to the proper path (see Dvarim 33:8-11!).

Similarly, Yehuda and Yosef possess a potential for leadership that should be recognized by their offspring and properly developed and implemented. However, even the kings of the House of David must be constantly conscious of their conduct, in order that they be worthy of exercising their leadership (see Yirmiyahu 22:1-5!).

[This idea can help us understand most blessings (even Birkat Kohanim!). A "bracha" comes to remind a person of his individual potential, in order that it is channeled in the proper direction.]

Undoubtedly, the "brachot" of Yaakov contain additional prophetic and metaphysical significance as well. Yet, they do not negate the basic principle of "bechira chofshit" [freedom of choice].

Back TSC Home Next