As the Book of Exodus open, the Children of Israel descend into Exile in Egypt. Not that they were not in Egypt already, but now darkness descends upon them. We have said goodbye to the Patriarchs and Matriarchs, and now we say goodbye to the generation of Jacob’s children, as we read: “Yosef died and all his brothers and that entire generation.” (Exodus 1:6) 

“Assemble yourselves and I will tell you what will befall you in the end of days.” (Genesis 49:1) These are Yaakov Avinu’s (our Father Jacob’s) prophetic words to his sons as he prepares to leave this world. 

“Ani Yosef … I am Yosef.” The brothers’ mouths drop open.