Legends of the Jews (Ginzberg)

2,650 texts · Page 107 of 295

Selections from Louis Ginzberg's monumental Legends of the Jews, a seven-volume compilation that weaves together aggadic material from the Talmud, Midrash, and other rabbinic literature into a continuous narrative.

Mordecai and the Dreamer

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:317

Sometimes, the tradition gives us the most beautiful, unexpected answers. Take the story of Joseph and his brothers in Egypt. After all the drama, the famine, the accusations, and ...

JosephEstherSabbathShabbat

Joseph's Journey and Benjamin

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:318

The brothers, finally reconciled with Joseph, are presented before the ruler of the land. They aren't just any group of travelers; they're described as being of "heroic stature and...

JosephMosesTorahEgypt

Joseph's Legacy and Canaan

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:321

He bids them farewell at the frontier, extending an invitation for their entire families to join him. It's a moment filled with the promise of reunion and prosperity. But then, he ...

PatriarchsJosephHoly LandEgypt

Jacob and the Heavenly Realms of Serah

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:322

The story of Jacob and Serah offers a beautiful glimpse into that very mystery. Imagine Jacob, mourning the loss of his beloved son, Joseph. Years have passed, filled with sorrow a...

HeavenPatriarchsJosephProphecy

Jacob's Transgression of Joseph

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:324

Perhaps they were discussing the old days, lost loved ones, or maybe even just the weather. We don’t know for sure, but it’s a safe bet Jacob wasn’t expecting what was about to hap...

Hell/GehennaPatriarchsJosephTorah

Jacob's Legacy and Egypt

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:326

Even a turban for Jacob himself! They were ready to journey to Egypt, to leave Canaan and dwell with Joseph. The word had spread and, according to Legends of the Jews, the kings an...

PatriarchsJosephProphecyPrayer

Divine Presence and Egypt

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:327

That’s kind of how Jacob must have felt, facing the prospect of his family’s descent into Egypt. The stories tell us that Jacob, also known as Israel, was deeply concerned about th...

PatriarchsJosephJobEgypt

Jacob's Journey of Egypt

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:329

It's often in those details that the real magic lies. Take Jacob, for example. We know he journeyed from Canaan to Egypt, a pivotal moment for his family and, ultimately, for the e...

PatriarchsJosephTempleHoly Land

Jacob's Journey and Judah

Ginzberg Legends of the Jews 1:330

He sends Judah ahead, not just to find a place to stay, but to build a Bet ha-Midrash – a house of study. Why? What was the real reason behind this seemingly simple act? The Legend...

PatriarchsMatriarchsJosephHoly Land