The patriarchs Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov are often considered the primary examples of leadership in biblical times. Yet our Sages tell us that Yosef was also considered a role model of leadership for the Jewish nation. The phrase in

Tehillim -  נוהג כצאן יוסף - "He (Gd) leads Yosef like a flock," is interpreted by the midrash to also mean "Yosef leads (the Jews) like a flock." What can we glean from this duality of interpretation that compares Yosef's style of leadership to that of Gd's?

Torah teaches that the patriarchs were all shepherds and lived a somewhat separate existence from their neighbors. Yosef, however, is the prototypical Exilarch - ראש גלות - he was a leader for the diaspora. Yosef lived and worked within a world and a culture that clashed directly with Jewish core values. Yosef was tempted and tested many times and yet he remained true to his moral code. He was principled and had unwavering integrity of character.

This week, in Parashat Vayigash, we see how Yosef uniquely exemplifies attributes beyond his respectable middot that define his manner of leadership and distinguish him amongst the ranks of our patriarchal leaders. We see from reading about his life that Yosef faced adversity with acceptance and with each challenge, he further refined his character.

Despised by his brothers, sold into slavery and then wrongfully cast into prison, Yosef could have become angry, resentful and revengeful. Instead, he exhibited qualities that enabled him to come out of his trials a better person. He forgave freely and wholeheartedly. Yosef's dealings with his brothers were motivated by love - a positive lens that makes for a more objective leader.

Another aspect of Yosef's character that we learn about in Parashat Vayigash is his ability to connect and empathize with the people and the country he served. We read of Yosef " ויכלכל יוסף לחם לפי הטף" - "Yosef provided bread according to (the needs of) the children." The commentators explain that Yosef, in his infinite wisdom, gave "bread" according to need. Yosef had the insight to set apart and satiate those whose hunger was great, as well as those who had more basic needs. Rather than project his own preconceived notions or "feed" people based on labels and generalities, Yosef was able to differentiate and provide each individual the nourishment that would uniquely suit him or her.