Vayigash 5773

Joseph’s is a story of clothing.  In each episode, a key piece of clothing indicates a change in identity—the multicolored coat, the tunic ripped off his back, the linen trappings and gold chain of office Pharaoh bestows upon him.  Step by step, outfit by outfit, he sheds the identity of the lonely shepherd boy and becomes the grandee of Egypt.
Parashat Vayigash contains the climax of the Joseph story.  This week, he reveals himself to his brothers and they are reunited.  They had not recognized him, presumably because of the finery, ceremonial wig and beard, and jewelry he wore.  From underneath it all comes the simple, clear voice:  “I am Joseph” (Genesis 45:3).  Despite all the changes life brought him, he is the same essential self.

Human beings wear clothes to signal our identity and status—the police officer’s uniform, the judge’s robe, the waitress’ apron, the king’s crown.   These signal what we do, but they do not signal who we are.  They cloak our inner beings even as they reveal our public selves.  We are God’s likeness, true and pure and good.

It is easy to see only the exterior of a person, as Joseph’s brothers did, that is, the personae he or she presents to the outside world.  Our more profound task is to see the full and unique person underneath the uniform, to recognize the image of God hiding behind the mask.

What are the uniforms and masks you wear?