“And now let Pharaoh look for a discerning and wise man and put him in charge of the land of Egypt.” — Genesis 41:33 

Each week in synagogue, Jews read through the Torah from Genesis to Deuteronomy. The Torah portion for this week is Mikeitz, which means “at the end,” from Genesis 41:1–44:17. 

Here in Israel, there is a Hebrew term that job descriptions often include when seeking out an ideal employee. The term is rosh gadol, which literally means “big head.” A person with a big head thinks big. When he or she sees a problem, they take the initiative to create a solution, instead of waiting for someone else to figure it out. Or, if they see a way to add value to the workplace, they do what they can, without being asked to do so.  

In a world focused on problems, where everyone is a critic, solution-oriented people are rare and valuable. I am so grateful that The Fellowship has been blessed with an amazing staff, dedicated to solving problems and going beyond the call of duty. It is the reason that we are so effective at helping millions of Jews in Israel and around the world, particularly during a pandemic. 

Thinking Big to Solve Problems 

In this week’s Torah reading, we learn that the Pharaoh of Egypt asked Joseph to interpret his dreams. Joseph correctly explained that Egypt was about to experience seven years of abundance, but then seven years of famine would follow.  

However, Joseph did not stop there. Next, he offered a solution by suggesting that Egypt store one-fifth of all grain during the years of plenty in order to have enough grain during the lean years. Joseph also suggested that Pharaoh appoint a “discerning and wise man” to oversee the entire operation. After hearing Joseph speak, Pharaoh decided that Joseph, with his “big head” and big thinking, was the perfect man for the job. 

These days, there is no shortage of people who can point out everything that is wrong with the world. However, we need to seek out solutions at least as quickly as we find problems. The Bible tells us that when we see someone without clothing, to clothe them and when we see someone who is hungry, to feed them (Isaiah 58: 7). God calls us to act, to think big, and to solve the problems that we see. 

Anyone can find problems. But those who think big and seek solutions can make a difference and create a better world for us all. 

Your turn: How might you help solve the problems you see in your community and in the world?