Why Jacob Suspected Judah of Killing Joseph

Midrash Tanchuma Buber, Vayigash 10:1

Curated by Arthur·Told by Maggid·

[And he sent Judah.] Scripture says, "Then the jealousy of Ephraim shall depart" (Isaiah 11:13). For our father Jacob supposed that Judah had killed Joseph, because he had brought him the tunic, as it is said, "And he recognized it and said, 'My son's tunic! An evil beast has devoured him'" (Genesis 37:33). And "an evil beast" is nothing but a lion. And Jacob would say to him, "You tore him to pieces, and you are destined to tear his brother to pieces; you tore him to pieces only out of jealousy." Immediately, "And Jacob rent his garments," etc. (ibid. 34).

Themes

JealousyJudahMourning

Biblical References

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