“Gather yourselves and hear oh sons of Jacob, listen to Israel your father. Reuvein you are (or could have been) my first born, my strength and the first of my potency. You are (or could have been) greatly uplifted (with the priesthood as the Kohen lifts his hands to bless the people) and great in strength (as king). (Unfortunately) You acted like water which flows unabated, therefore you have not gained these blessings. For you have gone up onto the bed of your father, (a possible reference to Genesis Chapter 35 verse 22 “and Reuvein went and slept with Bilhah his father’s Pilegesh”) then you have profaned my resting place.” (Genesis Chapter 49 verses 2-4)(Explanation by Unkulus and Rashi, based on the Midrash)
The above translation/explanation of the text is actually not universally accepted by all views in the Midrash. Some suggest a kinder translation. In their view Reuvein was the first born and retained all the rights of that position. He retained his first born double portion as the pasuk says “Reuvein had an abundance of cattle.” He retained his first born king like power when leading the armies into war to conquer Canaan. He retained the title of first born, “Reuvein you are my first born”. All agree that Reuvein sinned but not everyone reads the Bilhah event literally. “Whoever says Reuvein sinned is mistaken”. (Tractate Shabbat 53). Furthermore some suggest that although he sinned he repented and was forgiven. In addition he gets credit in the Midrash for attempting to save Joseph’s life.
I would suggest that the pasuk can be understood by examining the term “Se-eis” or uplifting. Here Reuvein is described as having an abundance of “Se-eis”. We find this same term used by G-d when advising Cain. There G-d told Cain “If you wish to be better then “Se-eis” you will be uplifted. (Gen. Ch. 4 vs. 7) If you overcome your envy towards your brother Abel you will “Se-eis” be a much better person. Unlike his brothers who were consumed with jealousy Reuvein was able to “Se-eis” uplift himself over the special coat, the father’s affections, or of the dreams as the pasuk says “And Reuvein heard and saved Joseph from their hands.” Some suggest that the “Going up on the bed of your father” is a reference not to Bilhah but rather to Reuvein finding and sharing the fertility flowers. There Reuvein actually assisted indirectly in Joseph’s conception by finding the fertility flowers and sharing this information with Rachael. She then was able to strike the bargain that led ultimately to the birth of Joseph. Reuvein did this kindness towards Rachael knowing full well the possible consequence. Reuvein knew that his own position as first born could evaporate as his replacement could emerge from Rachael the favorite and most beloved indeed primary wife of his father. He was indeed overflowing with “Se-eis” uplifting.
The final word on Reuvein was left to Moshe who declared “let Reuvein live.” The enigma that was Reuvein was clarified. Reuvein emerged unscathed and unharmed by his detractors. “Let Reuvein Live”.
The Parsha Corner is dedicated as usual to the Memory of Joel Shulman a’h. A special dedication this week to my father who’s Yartzeit we commemorate this week. I know he would have enjoyed the Parsha Corner. Let his memory be a blessing for all his children and grandchildren. Shabbat Shalom.
