When the famine becomes severe in Egypt, Joseph allows the Egyptians to buy back the grain they were required to store in Pharaoh’s granaries. When their money is spent, he allows them to pay with cattle. In the second year of the famine, they offer all they have left—their bodies and labor. So, Joseph buys their land for Pharaoh and moves them into cities. In the future, Joseph says, they could work Pharaoh’s land, and keep four-fifths of the produce for themselves.

Why do the people suggest this arrangement? Perhaps they think their world will come to an end if they don’t do something quickly. But the world does not end, and their action has long-term implications. Torah says, “Joseph made it a law over the land of Egypt to this day.” In modern times, too, desperate people sometimes embrace bonded labor as a short-term solution. But many families are unable to amass enough money to survive and get ahead of debt. Some sell their young children’s services to keep from starving, establishing generations of slavery.

Why does Joseph agree to it? He and his family live well; surely they do not imagine their world coming to an end. Ramban says Joseph seizes the opportunity to help his employer, taking as much as possible for Pharaoh and none for himself. Nahum Sarna says Joseph allows the people to be partners in problem-solving, and accepts their proposal.

If you find Joseph’s actions disturbing, think about how you can counter them in your own life. Even as a consumer, you can buy fair trade goods, put money into corporations that avoid slave labor, and donate to social justice organizations before this tax year ends.

Let Torah move you to action!

Inspired by Rabbi Rachel Kahn-Troster, Rabbis for Human Rights, and AJWS

Image: Dry river bed in Kenya by John Nguru Kamau