That’s precisely what happened to Asenath in the legends surrounding the biblical figure of Joseph.

Imagine this: Asenath, a woman of stature and privilege, is deeply affected by the words of Joseph. So much so, that she’s moved to tears. Out of compassion, Joseph offers a blessing, imploring God to pour His spirit upon her, welcoming her into His people and granting her a share in eternal life. A powerful scene, right?

According to Ginzberg's retelling in Legends of the Jews, Joseph's appearance and words had a profound impact. As soon as Asenath returned to her chambers, she cast aside her finery – the robes of state, the jewels – and replaced them with sackcloth. She covered her head in ashes, a symbol of mourning and repentance, and for seven days and nights, she prayed for forgiveness, completely isolating herself.

Think about that level of dedication. Seven days and nights of intense introspection and seeking divine grace. It speaks volumes about the sincerity of her transformation.

Then, on the morning of the eighth day, something extraordinary happens. An angel appears to her! The angel tells her to put aside her mourning clothes and adorn herself in her finest garments because she has been born anew. He says she is now ready to partake in the blessed bread of life, drink from the cup of immortality, and anoint herself with the oil of eternal life.

Asenath, ever the gracious hostess, prepares to offer food and drink to her angelic guest. But then she sees it: a honeycomb of extraordinary beauty and fragrance. Where did it come from?

The angel reveals that this is no ordinary honeycomb. It was made by the bees of Paradise, food fit for angels and the chosen ones of God. He takes a small portion, and then, remarkably, he places the rest into Asenath's mouth. "From this day forth," he proclaims, "thy body shall bloom like the eternal flowers in Paradise, thy bones shall wax fat like the cedars thereof, strength inexhaustible shall be thine, thy youth shall never fade, and thy beauty never perish, and thou shalt be like unto a metropolis surrounded by a wall." What a powerful blessing!

And Asenath, in her newfound compassion, remembers her attendants. She asks the angel to bless them as well. He grants her request, saying, "May the Lord bless you and make you to be seven pillars in the City of Refuge."

This story, found in Legends of the Jews, is more than just a fantastical tale. It's a story of transformation, of the power of words and compassion, and of the potential for renewal that exists within each of us. It makes you wonder, doesn't it? What "honeycomb of paradise" might we encounter in our own lives, and how will we share its blessings with those around us?