BH
In Parshat Noach we read about Noach's ark and the world's new beginning after the great flood. It is at this time that we also read about Noach making wine and drinking to excess. As the verse states, "He drank of the wine and became drunk, and he uncovered himself within his tent" (Bereishit 9:21).
It is within this context that the Torah describes the respectful way in which two of Noach's sons reacted to seeing their father in this unfortunate state: "Shem and Yafet took the garment... and they covered their father's nakedness" (9:23).
In this account, Shem and Yafet are described as acting together. Yet a few verses later, when the Torah describes the aftermath of the story, the two brothers are treated differently. Shem receives a double blessing with great accolades, "Blessed be the L-rd, the G-d of Shem" (9:26), while Yafet receives only a single blessing, with significantly less praise.
Why would two people who took the same action be rewarded differently?
Rabbi Shem Tov ibn Shem Tov explains that while Shem and Yafet may have acted together, as most good deeds are the product of collaboration, they were not equal partners. When the Torah tells us that "Shem and Yafet took the garment," Shem is listed first. The Torah is not just describing the end result, but the process of how it unfolded.
Shem is listed first because he took the initiative and inspired his brother to join him. While both are rewarded for doing the right thing, Shem is singled out for being the one who got it all started. Yes, Yafet took part and deserves to be recognized, but it is Shem, the catalyst, who is singled out and doubly blessed.
In life, it is always wonderful to be part of a mitzvah or any good deed done together with others. But it is truly special when we are the initiators of these good deeds, leading the way and encouraging others to follow.
Shabbat Shalom
