The second portion of the story of Joseph begins with the dramatic release of the young Hebrew slave from an Egyptian prison. He interprets Pharaoh's dreams and is immediately promoted to viceroy, second-in-command of Egypt.

Joseph's redemption is incomplete, however. Though his reputation is restored, and he has achieved the impossible in terms of his personal wealth and power, he has yet to mend ties with his family. The pain continues, decades later.

He is reunited with his brothers -- though they do not recognize him -- when they come to Egypt, seeking food. Their father, Jacob, refuses to allow Benjamin, the only surviving son of Rachel (he thinks), to accompany them.

Jacob sends them away, holding Simon as a hostage until they return with Benjamin. Eventually, they do, but Jacob has his servants plant a goblet in Benjamin's sack, so he can frame him for theft and imprison him in Egypt.

This sets up the ultimate test of the brothers' repentance: would they once again abandon a favored son to Egypt? Would they once again look after themselves alone, or would they spare each other, and their father's heart?

The portion ends on that cliffhanger. It is deeply moving to read the text's descriptions of the emotional turmoil Joseph endures, even as he is putting his brothers to the text in an exceptionally difficult way, physically and emotionally.

One lesson (among many) in this portion comes from Joseph's meeting with Pharaoh. Joseph didn't just give Pharaoh his analysis: he also offered him a solution. He didn't just apply for a job; he also made a case for a policy plan.

At the same time, Joseph did not claim credit for the insight behind these ideas. He credited God. This showed Pharaoh that Joseph not only had great ideas, but was humble enough to be trusted. Useful career tips, even today!

https://www.chabad.org/parshah/torahreading.asp?aid=2492535&jewish=Miketz-Torah-Reading.htm&p=complete