The list of the seventy souls who accompany Yaakov to Egypt represents a celebratory climax to the story of Yosef and his brothers, and is located at an important point in the development of the plot – in between the news transmitted to Yaakov to the effect that his son Yosef is still alive and the actual meeting between them in Egypt. At the same time, this list represents the "watershed" in the history of Yaakov's family, dividing between what happens to the family in Canaan and their experiences in Egypt. The sensitive reader therefore recognizes that this list is a point of elevation in the story, an emotional expression of the story's themes and messages.
There are also aspects of the list that are hidden from those who suffice with a cursory review of its names and numbers. Within our list there are hints of important issues pertaining to the family of our forefathers and the future of the Jewish nation. There are also difficulties and contradictions that require explanation.
The article with a general impression of the list and its purpose, followed by a closer look at some of its details.
